Under the Shadow of the Almighty – Part 6 (Romans 11:24-36)

Under the Shadow of the Almighty – Part 6 (Romans 11:24-36)

Today, we continue our series titled Under the Shadow of the Almighty. Our focus is officially on verses 24 to 36, but let’s begin by reading from verse 19 to set the context. Are you ready? Let’s read loudly and with enthusiasm—make up for the energy you might have lacked during worship earlier. We noticed some hands raised and a few claps, but others stood passively. Worship is an active response to God’s presence, just like engaging with His Word.

Reading from Romans

Verse 19 says:
“You will say then, ‘Branches were broken off that I might be grafted in.’ Well said. Because of unbelief, they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Do not be haughty, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare you either. Therefore, consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. And they also, if they do not continue in unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again.

Paul continues to remind us that as Gentiles, we were once wild branches grafted into God’s cultivated olive tree. This imagery demonstrates God’s power to restore both Jews and Gentiles into His family. Verse 25 unveils the mystery: Israel’s blindness is temporary, lasting only until the fullness of the Gentiles comes in. Then, as promised, “all Israel will be saved.”

The Covenant of Mercy

Verses 28-36 highlight the depth of God’s mercy. Though Israel is currently resistant to the gospel, they remain beloved for the sake of the patriarchs. God’s promises are irrevocable, a testament to His faithfulness.

Paul concludes with a hymn of praise:
“Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!”

This declaration reminds us that God’s plans surpass human understanding, and His grace extends to all who believe in Christ.

Dwelling Under His Wings

The theme Under the Shadow of the Almighty originates from Psalm 91:4:
“He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings, you shall take refuge. His truth shall be your shield and buckler.”

This verse encapsulates God’s protective presence in our lives. As believers, we’ve been grafted into these promises originally given to the Jewish people. Psalm 63:7-8 further affirms:
“Because You have been my help, therefore in the shadow of Your wings, I will rejoice. My soul follows close behind You; Your right hand upholds me.”

A Call to Belief

Are you dwelling under the shadow of the Almighty? Do you believe in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? This isn’t just about heritage but faith in Jesus Christ, who died and rose again to establish a covenant of salvation for all who trust in Him.

Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem illustrates His longing to gather His people:
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem… How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing.”

This imagery of divine protection and blessing emphasizes God’s desire for intimacy with His people. The question remains: are you willing to trust and dwell under His shadow?

Let us embrace the promises of God, walk in faith, and rejoice in the assurance of His unchanging love. Amen.