Lecture Notes: Interpretation of Biblical Texts

Connection and Attendance

• Issues with connection were resolved.
• Ensured that all followers and even critics were online.
• Check-in on Facebook and Periscope connections.

Main Texts

• John 1:11
• Luke 9:22
• John 1:12
• Acts 2:41; 4:4; 21:20
• Romans 11:1
• Jeremiah 31:35
• Romans 11

Key Themes

Rejection of Christ by His Own People

• John 1:11: Christ came to His own, but they did not receive Him.
• Luke 9:22: Christ predicted His suffering and rejection by elders, chief priests, and scribes.
• Acts 2:41: Despite this, many Jews believed—about 3000 were baptized.
• Acts 4:4: Many Jews accepted Christ’s teachings, leading to about 5000 men believing.

God's People and Election

• Romans 11:1: God has not cast away His people (Israel).
• Jeremiah 31:35: As long as natural orders like the sun and moon exist, Israel remains God's people.
• Romans 11:2: God's commitment to Israel through foreknowledge.
• Amos 3:2: Israel is unique among nations, chosen and known by God.

Misunderstandings and Misinterpretations

• Misinterpretation of 'Gentiles' and 'spiritual Israel' concepts addressed.
• Emphasis on the distinction between Israelites and other nations during Christ’s time.
• Clarification that ‘Gentiles’ often refers to the Northern Kingdom of Israel.

The Concept of Remnant

• Romans 11:5: A remnant chosen by grace remains faithful to God.
• Isaiah 10:21-22: Prophecy of a remnant of Israel returning to God.
• Wisdom of Solomon: God’s grace and mercy with His saints—Israelites.

Divine Blinding and Hardening of Some

• Romans 11:7-10: Paul speaks of Israel's partial hardening; a remnant chosen by grace understands and believes.
• 1 Peter 2:8: Disobedience leads to stumbling—a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.
• Jude 4: False brethren ordained to condemnation, creeping in unnoticed.

Integration of Scripture and Prophecy

• Romans 11:11-12: Through Jewish transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to provoke Israel to jealousy.
• John 4:9, 22: Jesus speaks to a Samaritan woman (representing the Northern Kingdom) about true worship.
• Ephesians 2:14-15: Christ broke the wall of division, uniting Jews and Gentiles (Northern and Southern Kingdoms).
• Matthew 4:15: Reference to the land of Zebulun and Naphtali as ‘Galilee of the Gentiles’.

Faith, Works, and Righteousness

• Romans 11:6: Salvation by grace, not by works (law of sacrifices).
• Ephesians 2:8-10: Salvation by grace through faith; works cannot save.
• Emphasis on mercy given through Christ as opposed to reliance on the law of Moses (sacrifices, etc.).

The Spiritual Awakening and Purging of Israel

• Significance of trials and tribulations as a means of purifying the faithful.
• Encouragement to remain steadfast and not be swayed by doctrinal disputes or external criticism.
• Reference to scriptural backing for a small remnant being saved while the majority might be lost.

Contemporary Application and Warnings

• Encouragement to avoid false teachings and deceptive doctrines.
• Importance of understanding the scriptures and God’s plans for Israel and the world.
• Warnings against pride and disobedience as seen in historical examples.
• Call for spiritual diligence and faithfulness despite external challenges.

Responding to Critics and Maintaining Faith

• Mention of the necessity to contend for the Gospel.
• Assurance that God’s promises to Israel remain firm despite human failings and misconceptions.
• Reminder that ultimate judgment lies with God, and the faithful should be prepared to endure and remain unshaken in their beliefs.

Conclusion

• Final remarks emphasizing perseverance in faith and study, remaining vigilant against false doctrines.

• Reaffirmation of the continued relevance and chosenness of Israel according to biblical prophecies and teachings.

• Next session continuation: Romans 11:2 onwards.