When reading the Scriptures, we often come across terms that might seem academic or distant from our everyday experiences. ‘Theology’ and ‘doxology,’ might appear at first glance to be reserved for theologians or scholars. However, they encapsulate a profound truth about our faith journey: the seamless exchange between understanding God (theology) and worshiping Him (doxology).
Theology, in its essence, is the study of God. It involves diving into His character, His works, His will, and His ways as revealed in the Bible, which is our ultimate guide in coming to know Him. Theology shapes our understanding so that we can live more aligned with God’s truth. It is foundational because, as we navigate the complexities of life and the depths of Scripture, our theology informs how we perceive and relate to God. On the other hand, doxology is an expression of praise directed towards God. It is the natural overflow of a heart that recognizes and reveres the majesty and mercy of God. Doxology is more than just singing hymns on a Sunday; it is the joyful adoration that saturates our daily lives.
As Paul concludes a profound theological discourse on the salvation available to both Jews and Gentiles in Romans 11:25-36, he does not merely end with doctrinal conclusions. Instead, he transitions into doxology. It is a spontaneous eruption of praise rooted in the theological truths he has laid out. This praise is deeply rooted in a solid understanding of God’s nature and His redemptive work. Let’s dive deeper into how Paul’s theological journey through Romans leads him to a crescendo of doxology, and how this impacts our own understanding of the relationship between knowing God and praising Him.
1. All Isreal Will Be Saved
In Romans 11, we encounter the bold and often debated declaration: “all Israel will be saved.” This statement is intricately linked to Paul’s exploration of God’s sovereignty over salvation in Romans 9 through 11. Starting in chapter nine, Paul emphasized that salvation is entirely under God’s sovereign control, a comfort that removes the heavy burden from our shoulders. By chapter ten, he reveals that salvation is accessible through faith in Jesus Christ alone — this is the singular pathway to salvation, extended graciously by God to humanity. In chapter 11, Paul intricately discusses the specific implications for Israel. Despite their historical rejection of the Messiah, Paul clarifies that this rejection is not total or final. Instead, he portrays a future where a significant remnant of Israel will turn back to faith in Christ. This future revival is not rooted in their merit but in God’s unfailing kindness and enduring promises.
God will use the salvation of the Gentiles as a divine strategy to provoke a sense of spiritual jealousy among the Jews. This jealousy is not petty or malicious but is intended to awaken a desire for the blessings of salvation that the Gentiles enjoy — blessings that are rightfully part of the Jewish heritage. This strategic move by God aims to draw His original covenant people back to Himself, showcasing His mercy and the inclusive breadth of His salvation plan. However, Paul is cautious about any feelings of superiority that might arise among Gentile believers. He reminds them — and us — that our salvation is not a badge of honor to flaunt but a gift that calls for humility. The faith we cherish is not of our own making but a blessing granted by the kindness of God.
The timing and full scope of when all Israel will be saved remain part of the mysteries of God’s providential plan. It likely ties into the global spread of the gospel, reaching every tribe and tongue before the culmination of the age. This ongoing process emphasizes our mission to share the gospel, reflecting God’s patient extension of grace to all corners of the earth.
The salvation of “all Israel,” as discussed by Paul, does not suggest universal salvation for every individual Jew but rather a significant, collective turning back to God in the future. This interpretation aligns with Paul’s use of “all Israel” to denote a substantial, though not exhaustive, part of the nation. Crucially, the mechanism of salvation remains consistent across all demographics: salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. There is no special pathway for Jews; the cross of Christ is the singular ground of redemption for every human soul, Jew and Gentile alike. God’s plan for Israel is a testament to His fidelity and His unchanging nature, offering us assurance that what He has promised, He will fulfill.
2. Praise God for Who He Is!
As we delve into the concluding verses of Romans 11 Paul transitions from deep theological discourse to a spontaneous outpouring of doxology — praise to God. This is a profound reminder that our study of God through Scripture should always lead us to a deeper sense of reverence and adoration. In Romans 11:33-36, Paul bursts into praise, reflecting on the “depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God.” His doxology is not just about celebrating God’s actions but marveling at His nature — His unsearchable judgments and unfathomable ways.
Paul’s use of the word “Oh” at the beginning of his hymn of praise is more than just a filler — it is a profound acknowledgment of something beyond articulation. This single exclamation encapsulates the mystery and majesty of God, reminding us that there are dimensions of His nature that are beyond our full understanding. This transition from intellectual engagement to heartfelt adoration is crucial. It shows that while theology (the study of God) is vital, it must be paired with doxology (praise to God) to complete our spiritual experience. We are reminded that when our minds reach their limit, our hearts must take over in worship.
Paul emphasizes that God’s ways and judgments are beyond human scrutiny. Who can fully know the mind of the Lord, or who has been His counselor? These rhetorical questions highlight our position before an infinite God. We are creatures of limited understanding faced with the limitless. This should not frustrate us but drive us to deeper dependence and awe of God.
True worship involves more than just understanding; it involves responding. When faced with the realities of God’s nature and His actions, our most appropriate response is praise. This praise is not limited to moments of spiritual revelation but should saturate every aspect of our lives. Whether we are encountering the grandeur of creation, the depths of Scripture, or the day-to-day moments of our existence, each should be an opportunity to worship. For example, the prophet Isaiah, upon seeing a vision of God’s holiness, responded with a recognition of his own unworthiness and a readiness to serve (Isaiah 6). Our encounters with God’s greatness, whether through His creation, His Word, or His acts, should lead us to a posture of humility and a readiness to act in obedience.
As we grow in our understanding and experience of God, our lives should become beacons of His love and grace, inviting others to discover the joy of worshiping Him. Our praise becomes a testimony, not just of our devotion, but of God’s worthiness to be praised. Let us join Paul in declaring, “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.” This doxology is not the end but a continual call to each of us to live in the rhythm of theology leading to doxology, where every discovery about God prompts a deeper devotion and louder praise.
