Romans 11:29
For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.
There are two distinct variables outlined by the author in this verse that are immutable under God: the gifts and calling of God.
This characteristic of God- His unchanging faithfulness in bestowing gifts and calling is opposed to practice in many cultures of the world. For instance, among the Pashtuns, there's a concept called "Badal" (reciprocation or revenge). In cases of serious dispute, especially broken engagements or perceived dishonor, family may demand the return of gifts such as dowries or bride prices. In some instances, even gifts exchanges during courtship or betrothal are reclaimed if the relationship breaks down. Other cultures like Somali , the Chinese , middle Eastern and North African Culture share similar customs.
In contrast, the spiritual concept of gift and calling carries the very nature and character of God.
Num 23:19 affirms this .
God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
God's words are irrevocable and stand sure across all timelines.The issuance of gifting and callings is part of the commodity of the covenant (originally made with the Fathers) , this is not obscure in the New Testament rather, it forms the foundation upon which the New Covenant thrives.
Wiersbe's Exposition on this topic opined that Paul does not regard God's promise to ethnic Israel as cancelled but deferred.
Deut 4: 25-31 and Deut 7:8 confirms that God still had a covenant with the Fathers irregardless of the recklessness of the the children.
Theologian John Calvin offered a broader view suggesting that Paul , referencing Romans 11: 5 .
(Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.), indicates that the gifts and calling of God shall be effectual towards some the Jews throughout all ages and towards the whole nation, when the fullness of the Gentiles shall come in; or, that though they may be suspended, they shall yet be made evident at the appointed time; Thus what secures the future restoration of Israel is the covenant of free grace which God made with their fathers.
It is indeed intriguing that the covenant of the fathers and of Israel remain valid even in the face of Israel's rejection of Christ. The ground of Hope is the irrevocability of God's gift and calling. Although there is an inclusiveness from a newer perspective, while some argue that the gifts and callings are peculiar to Jews alone, N.T wright argued that Roman 11:29 must be understood within the larger narrative of God's plan; to include both Jews and Gentile In one covenant family. As Eph 2: 8 reminds us; It is by grace we have been saved through faith and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.
This faith has become the binding force bringing both the gentile and Jews into one covenant family, as originally established with the Fathers. It assures us that God will fulfill is commitment even when we are unfaithful. His gifts and calling are enduring, encouraging perseverance and faithfulness as we each fulfill our divine call.
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