Romans 9:1-5 – Some theologians think that Romans 9-11 is parenthetical to the theme and thought that Paul was developing in Romans 1-8.  But on the contrary Romans 9 illustrates Paul’s last thought in Romans 8.  Nothing shall separate me from the Love of God, which is in Messiah Jesus. How do I know that my relationship with God is secure, that if I stumble, God won’t cast me off?  Israel is an illustration of the faithfulness of God.

Paul, a former Pharisee and zealous defender of traditional Judaism, was now considered the traitor of traitors to his people, more despised than a pagan Samaritan. Paul knew that before unbelieving Jews would listen to anything he had to say, they first would have to be convinced that he truly cared for them and was far from leading an anti-Jewish revolt.

In his preaching and writing he undermined the two basic pillars of Judaism, physical descent from Abraham and righteousness by keeping the law. Paul declares his commitment to them and that his words were true with an oath to the Lord. He declares these words with a clear conscience.

The natural human conscience is far from being a reliable guide. It can be “seared”, and hardened. (Titus 1:15)  To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted.

When we neglect fellowship with God and disobey His Word, a believer’s conscience can become insensitive and unreliable. Paul called believers not to violate their consciences, even in neutral things.. Romans 14:20-23. All believers should be able to say with Martin Luther, “My conscience is captive to the Word of God.”