¹¹ I say then, they did not stumble so as to fall, did they? May it never be! But by their transgression salvation has come to the Gentiles, to make them jealous. ¹² Now if their transgression is riches for the world and their failure is riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their fulfillment be!

Hardened by God, Israel has been written off by many theologians as being consigned to the historical archives. Because of their unbelief, they have stumbled and fallen from God’s plan, there is no more plan for Israel. That view of things, however, is shortsighted and certainly not the understanding Paul taught.

The apostle, speaking in the authority of the Holy Spirit, said earlier that God has not rejected His people, and used himself (Paul) as evidence. I suppose some could say that the remnant saved out of Israel was blended into the Gentile movement of the Church, but not because of Jewish exceptionalism. Israel as a people, according to that thinking, is over and done with. However, Paul’s response is “me gnoito,” may it never be! Israel has not been short-changed when it comes to God’s grace.

Yes, Israel has “stumbled,” and the majority have been hardened, but their fall has not been irreparable (Everett F. Harrison), hopeless (William MacDonald) or permanent (Thomas R. Schreiner). Their plight is not completely without prospect of redemption. In fact, Paul teaches that what has happened will ultimately turn out for Israel’s “fulfillment” (vs. 12).

According to the intrigue of God’s narrative, the Jewish fall into hardening accomplished salvation for the Gentiles. This in turn was designed to provoke Israel to jealousy. Israel’s rejection of God, of their Messiah Jesus Christ, has resulted in Gentiles coming to faith in God through Jesus Christ. While the Jews certainly meant their rejection for evil purposes, God meant it for good (reminiscent of Jacob’s sons’ rejection of their brother Joseph; see Gen 50:20).

So in what sense are the Jews jealous? Clearly not the entire population of Jews today are jealous of Christians. I am reminded of a trip to Israel when the Jewish guide for our tour group said, “You Christians have the advantage of being free from the Law; we Jews are still in bondage to the Law.” His words may well have been pandering to a Gentile tour group, but a day is coming when Israel as a people group will become jealous of the favor God has shown the Gentiles. They will then realize that their failure has resulted in spiritual wealth for Gentiles, and their return to God at that time will result in their fulfillment. What a glorious day that will be!

Lord, I rest in Your faithfulness as seen in Your long-term plan for Israel.