Will All Israel Be Saved?
Understanding Romans 11:26
Interpretation of Romans 11:26
Romans 11:26 states, "All Israel will be saved." This verse has been interpreted in multiple ways:
The Literal Interpretation
This view suggests that "Israel" refers to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It believes they will be restored to a right relationship with God and receive the fulfillment of His covenants, including the Promised Land.
Replacement Theology
This view argues that the Church has replaced Israel as God's people. Consequently, the promises made to Israel are now fulfilled in the Church, and ethnic Israel is excluded from these promises.
Arguments for the Literal Interpretation
- Passages like Romans 11:16-24 distinguish between Israel and the Church, portraying Israel as distinct.
- The "natural branches" (Jews) are "cut off" and "grafted in" again, indicating a future restoration.
- Romans 11:26-29 emphasizes the "irrevocable" nature of God's calling to Israel as a nation.
Future Deliverance and Restoration
The literal interpretation predicts a future remnant of Israel who will repent and accept the Messiah, Jesus Christ. This will coincide with Israel's physical restoration to the Promised Land.
Key Passages
- Zechariah 12:10: Israel will mourn for the Messiah and look to him for salvation.
- Revelation 7:1-8: A remnant of Israel is sealed and protected by God.
- Ezekiel 37:1-14: Israel will be spiritually awakened and physically restored.
Millennial Kingdom and Final Salvation
After Israel's spiritual restoration, Christ will establish his millennial kingdom on earth. Israel will be regathered and live in peace and righteousness.
Ultimately, in the Day of the Lord, God will judge the wicked and establish the faithful remnant of Israel as his holy people. Israel's salvation includes both a spiritual awakening and the restoration of the Promised Land.
Key Points to Remember
- "Saved" refers to being rescued from God's judgment on sin through belief in Jesus.
- "Israel" refers to ethnic Israelites, chosen by God and entrusted with his law.
- "All" includes both the Jewish remnant and the hardened majority.
- The hardening of Israel has begun to reverse and will continue gradually until the full number of Gentiles has come in.
- The final salvation of Israel will occur just before Jesus' return and the resurrection.
Implications
- Christians should pray and work for the salvation of Israel, recognizing God's plan to save them through the salvation of Gentiles.
- They should avoid conceit and presumption towards Jewish unbelievers, understanding that God's ultimate goal is their salvation.
- The land of Israel is significant in light of God's promises and the future salvation of Israel.
Who will be saved according to Romans 11:26?
All Israel will be saved, referring to the nation of Israel as a whole, not just an elect remnant.
What does "saved" mean in this context?
Saved refers to being rescued from God's judgment on sin through belief in Jesus.
Who is "Israel" in Romans 11:26?
Israel refers to ethnic Israelites, chosen by God and entrusted with his law.
How will the salvation of Israel be achieved?
The salvation of Israel will be through the Deliverer, Jesus Christ, who will remove their ungodliness and forgive their sins.
When will the salvation of Israel occur?
The salvation of Israel will likely occur in conjunction with Jesus' second coming, as indicated by prophecies that suggest a national conversion.
