Paul liberally quotes the Old Testament throughout this chapter and shows us that some are chosen and some are not. God is patient and merciful, perfectly just. Paul writes, "He has mercy and whom he wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom he wants to harden" (v. 18). Sounds harsh, particularly for those whom he wants to harden. "But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? 'Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, "Why did you make me like this?"'" (v. 20).
We are reminded elsewhere in Scripture that "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9). Wrapping our brains around God's sovereignty and ability to know and orchestrate future events is a challenge to say the least. But considering this chapter in light of the rest of Scripture, including the Great Commission of Jesus in Matthew 28, it's clear that while God knows those whom He has chosen, we who follow Christ are called to be used by God to share the Good News of God's love and mercy with all. At the end of the day, God is in charge, and my job is to allow Him to lead me to do that which He wants me to do.
No comments:
Post a Comment