Mystery

August 12

Daily Bible Reading: Romans 11:22 – 36

Verse of the Day: Romans 11:25 – “For I would not, brethren, have you ignorant of this mystery, lest ye be wise in your own conceits, that a hardening in part hath befallen Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in;”

Paul here speaks of a “mystery” (Greek μυστηριον). He often uses this word in his writings (26 of the 27 times it is used by Paul, the last time is in the Book of revelation). They are not meaning something incomprehensible, the word pictures something that was hidden and has now been revealed. Many religious groups have secret meanings and beliefs that only the initiated can know. Paul speaks instead of a secret that has been revealed for all to see.

Here in this passage, the mystery is that Israel has been temporarily and partially hardened against the Gospel, but God has not rejected the Nation. God is not finished with Israel yet.

Prayer: God of Israel, help me to remember Your love for Your Chosen Nation, and that that same Love is bestowed upon me. Thank You that You are not finished with us yet.