Fearing God: The Context and Significance in Romans 11:17-21 and Its Biblical Context

In the context of the Bible, the words of Apostle Paul in Romans 11:17-21 carry a profound message about our attitudes and actions in relation to God and His commands. This article explores the implications of these verses and their relevance in both Christian and broader theological discussions.

Understanding the Context

Romans 11:17-21 is located in the larger context of Paul's letter to the Romans, where he addresses the relationship between the Jews and the Gentiles in the early Christian community. Paul is emphasizing the importance of humility and the dangers of arrogance among the Gentile believers who had been grafted into the tree of Israel. This metaphor serves as a way to illustrate the relationship between God's chosen people (Israel) and those who have come to faith in Jesus Christ (Gentiles).

Romans 11:17-21 Explained

Breaking Off the Branches

Paul uses the imagery of olive trees and branches to explain the grafting of Gentile believers into the 'root' of the Jewish people, who represent the tree of olive trees. In verse 17, he explains that if some of the 'wild' branches (Gentiles) were broken off, and believers (the 'wild olive tree') have been grafted into the tree and share in its richness, they should not boast against the 'natural branches' (Jews).

Example: Verse 18: “Remember that no one is a recipient of uttered judgment (grapevine) without faith,” Verse 19: “And the natural branches were broken off because of unbelief, but you stand fast through faith.”

The Warning Not to Be Arrogant

Paul explicitly warns the believers against arrogance in verse 20. He says, 'For if God did not spare the natural branches, He will not spare you either.' This statement is a reminder that the same God who allowed the Israelites to be broken off for their unbelief can do the same to those who do not maintain a humble and faithful attitude.

Further Biblical Context: Fearing God and Lawlessness

Matthew 7:23

Matthew 7:23 provides a stark reminder of the consequences of unbelief and lawlessness. The text says, 'Then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you. Depart from Me, you who work iniquity!''' The word 'iniquity' (458, anomia) in Greek means 'lawlessness' – a grave sin that is completely disregarding God's laws and commands.

Key Point: Just as God rejected those who were 'lawless' even among His own, Paul warns the believers against arrogance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a humble and God-fearing attitude.

Ephesians 2:10-22

Ephesians 2:10-22 further elaborates on the concept of being created to walk in good works and the blessings of being grafted into the covenant. Paul stresses that believers were without Messiah before, strangers to the covenants, but now through Messiah Jesus, they have been brought near and united with the Israelites.

Example: Verse 10: “For we are His workmanship, created in Messiah Yeshua to do good works, which Elohim prepared beforehand that we would walk in them.” Verse 20: “So then you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens of the set-apart ones, and members of the household of Elohim.”

Colossians 2:14

Colossians 2:14 mentions the blotted out 'commands against us' which stood as barriers between believers and God. This emphasizes the importance of obedience and keeping God's commands, highlighting how the same commands are now a 'dogma' of the Christian faith.

Key Point: 'Dogma' (1378, dogma) in Greek indicates an official or public decree. In the context of Colossians, maintaining these commands is crucial for God's favor and a right relationship with Him.

The Significance for Believers

From these biblical texts, we can derive significant lessons for today's believers:

Humility: Believers must remain humble and recognize that their salvation and inclusion are gifts from God, not earned through their own merit. Fear of God: There should be an underlying fear (in the sense of awe and reverence) of God and His laws, so as not to fall into the same patterns of unbelief that led to the Israelites' downfall. Obedience: Following God's commands with faith and obedience is essential for maintaining a right relationship with God.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Romans 11:17-21 and the associated biblical texts provide a comprehensive warning. They remind us of the importance of fear of God (reverence and awe), humility, and obedience. These themes are not just historical lessons but are still pertinent to believers today.

By considering these contexts, we can better understand and apply the principles set forth by the apostles, maintaining a balanced and godly perspective in our lives as Christians.