Section 12
into a cultivated tree is for it to receive the life of the cultivated tree. Hence, it is not a matter for us Gentiles to change our religion, but to receive the life of the root, which life is Christ. Many Gen tiles have turned from their heathen religions to the Christian religion without ever receiving the life of Christ. They have never been grafted into the olive tree cultivated by God with Christ as life. But we have been grafted in to enjoy the riches of Christ's life with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Praise the Lord!
Paul, speaking on behalf of the Gentiles, says in verse 19, "You will say then, Branches were bro ken off so that I might be grafted in." The Gen tiles may think this way. Paul answered, "Right. They were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be high-minded, but fear; for if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will He spare you. Behold then the kind ness and severity of God; on those who fell, se verity; but on you the kindness of God, if you continue in His kindness; otherwise you also will be cut off" (vv. 20-22). How wise is Paul's word.
Therefore, by Israel's false step, by their stum bling, salvation has come to the nations. How ever, Israel did not fall; they only stumbled. This is God's economy in His selection.