Unshakeable Promises: Trusting God's Eternal Covenant
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the profound and comforting truths found in Romans 11:25-29. We explored the steadfastness of God's promises, His unwavering love, and the irrevocable nature of His gifts and calling. The central theme was the reliability of God's word and His unchanging nature, even when circumstances seem to suggest otherwise. We began by addressing the apparent crisis of confidence that arises when we see God's chosen people, Israel, turning away from the Messiah. This led us to question whether God's promises can fail and what that means for our faith.
Paul reassures us that God's promises to Israel are not nullified but are temporarily delayed until the fullness of the Gentiles comes in. This period of grace is a window of opportunity for all nations to join God's family. We are reminded that God's love for Israel, and by extension for us, is not based on our performance but on His eternal covenant. Even when Israel is seen as an enemy of the gospel, they are still loved because of God's promises to the patriarchs.
We also discussed the irrevocable nature of God's gifts and calling. Just as God's promises to Israel stand firm, so do His promises to us. The gifts of forgiveness, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and eternal life are ours forever. These truths should fill us with hope and confidence, knowing that God's love and commitment to us are unchanging.
In conclusion, we are encouraged to trust in God's unshakable promises, His unbreakable love, and His irrevocable calling. Despite the trials and uncertainties we face, we can rest assured that God's plans for us will come to fruition. Our journey may be challenging, but our destination is secure in His hands.
### Key Takeaways
1. God's Promises Stand Firm Even When Delayed: God's promises to Israel are not nullified but temporarily delayed until the fullness of the Gentiles comes in. This period of grace is a window of opportunity for all nations to join God's family. We must train our vision on the future and seize this season of grace, knowing that God's promises are always fulfilled in His perfect timing. [49:33]
2. God's Love Transcends Our Failures: God's love for Israel, and by extension for us, is not based on our performance but on His eternal covenant. Even when Israel is seen as an enemy of the gospel, they are still loved because of God's promises to the patriarchs. This teaches us that God's love is not a performance review but an unchanging commitment. [58:52]
3. God's Gifts and Calling Are Irrevocable: The gifts of forgiveness, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and eternal life are ours forever. God's promises are not etched in sand but carved in the bedrock of eternity. This should fill us with hope and confidence, knowing that God's love and commitment to us are unchanging. [01:09:28]
4. Trust in God's Unshakable Promises: Despite the trials and uncertainties we face, we can rest assured that God's plans for us will come to fruition. His promises are unshakable, His love is unbreakable, and His calling is irrevocable. We are encouraged to trust Him fully, knowing that He will guide us through every challenge. [01:17:40]
5. Our Journey Is Secure in God's Hands: The Christian life is a tough journey through a harsh wilderness, but we are not alone. God is our refuge and strength, always present in times of trouble. He will guide us by His Word and Spirit, ensuring that we reach our eternal destination. Our journey may be long, but our destination is sure. [01:20:15]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[11:48] - Announcements and Upcoming Events
[12:34] - Committee Meetings and Bible Studies
[13:26] - Special Thanks and Recognitions
[14:48] - Opening Prayer and Psalm 81 Reflection
[20:36] - Prayer for Faithfulness and Freedom
[21:37] - Confession and Repentance
[22:27] - God's Promises and Protection
[23:20] - Intercessory Prayer and Requests
[28:06] - Reading of a Thank You Card
[30:53] - Romans 11:25-29 Scripture Reading
[42:11] - Introduction to the Sermon
[43:54] - Crisis of Confidence: God's Broken Promises?
[46:22] - God's Promises to Israel
[47:50] - The Mystery of Israel's Hardening
[50:09] - The Fullness of the Gentiles
[51:32] - Israel's Future Revival
[54:18] - Train Your Vision on the Future
[57:04] - Seize the Season of Grace
[58:52] - God's Love Transcends Our Failures
[01:00:13] - God's Unchanging Nature
[01:09:28] - God's Gifts and Calling Are Irrevocable
[01:17:40] - Trust in God's Unshakable Promises
[01:20:15] - Our Journey Is Secure in God's Hands
[01:21:45] - Closing Prayer and Invitation
[01:30:13] - Offering and Final Announcements
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Romans 11:25-29 (ESV): "Lest you be wise in your own sight, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, 'The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob'; 'and this will be my covenant with them when I take away their sins.' As regards the gospel, they are enemies for your sake. But as regards election, they are beloved for the sake of their forefathers. For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Paul mean by a "partial hardening" that has come upon Israel? How long will this hardening last? ([47:50])
2. According to Romans 11:25-29, what is the ultimate fate of Israel? ([50:51])
3. How does Paul describe God's gifts and calling in verse 29? What does the term "irrevocable" imply about God's promises? ([47:06])
4. What is the significance of the "fullness of the Gentiles" in God's plan, as mentioned in the sermon? ([50:09])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of God's promises being "temporarily delayed" rather than nullified affect our understanding of His faithfulness? ([49:33])
2. In what ways does the sermon illustrate that God's love for Israel, and by extension for us, is not based on performance but on His eternal covenant? ([58:52])
3. How does the irrevocable nature of God's gifts and calling provide hope and confidence to believers today? ([01:09:28])
4. What does it mean to "train your vision on the future" and "seize the season of grace" in the context of the sermon? ([54:18])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt God's promises were delayed in your life. How did you respond, and how can you apply the truth that God's promises stand firm even when delayed? ([49:33])
2. How can you remind yourself daily that God's love for you is not a performance review but an unchanging commitment? What practical steps can you take to internalize this truth? ([58:52])
3. The sermon emphasized the irrevocable nature of God's gifts and calling. How does this truth impact your view of your own spiritual gifts and calling? Are there areas where you need to trust more in God's unchanging nature? ([01:09:28])
4. In what ways can you actively trust in God's unshakable promises during trials and uncertainties? Share a specific challenge you are facing and how you can apply this truth. ([01:17:40])
5. The sermon mentioned that our journey is secure in God's hands despite the difficulties we face. How can you find strength and encouragement in this truth during your current life circumstances? ([01:20:15])
6. How can you make the most of this "season of grace" to share the gospel with others? Identify one person you can reach out to this week and plan a specific way to engage them in a spiritual conversation. ([57:04])
7. Reflect on the idea that God's love is not a performance review. How does this change the way you approach your relationship with God and others? What specific actions can you take to live out this truth in your daily life? ([01:03:35])
Devotional
Day 1: God's Promises Stand Firm Even When Delayed
God's promises to Israel are not nullified but temporarily delayed until the fullness of the Gentiles comes in. This period of grace is a window of opportunity for all nations to join God's family. We must train our vision on the future and seize this season of grace, knowing that God's promises are always fulfilled in His perfect timing. This teaches us that God's timing is not our timing, and His plans are always for the greater good, even when we cannot see it immediately.
In our lives, we may experience delays and setbacks that make us question God's promises. However, we are reminded that these delays are not denials. They are part of God's grand design, allowing more people to come into His fold. We are encouraged to remain patient and trust in God's perfect timing, knowing that His promises are steadfast and will come to fruition.
Romans 11:25-26 (ESV): "Lest you be wise in your own sight, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, 'The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob.'"
Reflection: Think of a promise from God that you feel is delayed in your life. How can you use this period of waiting to grow in faith and trust in His perfect timing? [49:33]
Day 2: God's Love Transcends Our Failures
God's love for Israel, and by extension for us, is not based on our performance but on His eternal covenant. Even when Israel is seen as an enemy of the gospel, they are still loved because of God's promises to the patriarchs. This teaches us that God's love is not a performance review but an unchanging commitment.
In our daily lives, we often feel that our worth is tied to our achievements and failures. However, God's love transcends our shortcomings and is rooted in His eternal covenant. This unchanging love assures us that we are valued and cherished, not because of what we do, but because of who we are in Him. It is a call to rest in His love and to stop striving for approval through our actions.
Jeremiah 31:3 (ESV): "The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent failure or shortcoming. How can you embrace God's unchanging love and let go of the need to earn His approval? [58:52]
Day 3: God's Gifts and Calling Are Irrevocable
The gifts of forgiveness, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and eternal life are ours forever. God's promises are not etched in sand but carved in the bedrock of eternity. This should fill us with hope and confidence, knowing that God's love and commitment to us are unchanging.
We often worry about losing God's favor or His gifts due to our mistakes. However, the irrevocable nature of His gifts and calling assures us that what He has given us is permanent. This includes the gift of salvation, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of eternal life. These truths provide a foundation of hope and confidence, encouraging us to live boldly for Him.
James 1:17 (ESV): "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."
Reflection: Consider the gifts God has given you. How can you live with greater confidence and hope, knowing that these gifts are irrevocable? [01:09:28]
Day 4: Trust in God's Unshakable Promises
Despite the trials and uncertainties we face, we can rest assured that God's plans for us will come to fruition. His promises are unshakable, His love is unbreakable, and His calling is irrevocable. We are encouraged to trust Him fully, knowing that He will guide us through every challenge.
Life is filled with uncertainties and challenges that can shake our faith. However, God's promises remain unshakable. We are called to trust in His plans, even when we cannot see the way forward. This trust is built on the assurance that His love and calling are steadfast, providing us with the strength to face any trial with confidence.
Isaiah 55:11 (ESV): "So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it."
Reflection: Identify a current trial or uncertainty in your life. How can you actively trust in God's unshakable promises as you navigate this challenge? [01:17:40]
Day 5: Our Journey Is Secure in God's Hands
The Christian life is a tough journey through a harsh wilderness, but we are not alone. God is our refuge and strength, always present in times of trouble. He will guide us by His Word and Spirit, ensuring that we reach our eternal destination. Our journey may be long, but our destination is sure.
As we navigate the difficulties of life, it is comforting to know that our journey is secure in God's hands. He is our constant refuge and strength, guiding us through every obstacle. This assurance allows us to face the journey with courage, knowing that our ultimate destination is secure in Him.
Psalm 46:1-2 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea."
Reflection: Think about a recent challenge you faced. How can you rely more on God's guidance and strength, knowing that your journey is secure in His hands? [01:20:15]
Quotes
1. "We've all experienced the sting of broken promises. The friend who swore that they would be there for you only to vanish when you needed them most. The politician who made grand pledges only to betray the public trust. The lover who swore lifelong fidelity only to break your heart. In a world where trust is rare, it's easy to be cynical. We may doubt if anyone's word can be relied upon." [43:54] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Imagine if God, who created the universe and sustains it, according to Hebrews chapter 1, by the word of his power. What if he were to break his word? What if his promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were empty? What if for you and I as New Testament saints, what if Christ's second coming never happens? Such a thought is almost too terrible to contemplate. If God's promises can fail, then what hope is there for any of us?" [44:22] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God's promises stand firm even when delayed. Even when it doesn't look like they're coming through, you can trust that God is going to come through. Paul starts by saying that he doesn't want us, the Gentile church specifically, to be ignorant of this mystery. A mystery in the Bible isn't like our Sherlock Holmes story. Mystery takes on a theological connotation. It's a truth that's always been the plan. But that part of the plan was hidden. And in these times, that plan is revealed to us." [47:50] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God's love transcends your failures. Have you ever felt that you've messed up so badly that God couldn't love you anymore? Have you felt like you've failed? And there's no way back to God. Paul presents us with an extremely interesting paradox here in verse 28. Look at it. He says, regarding the gospel presently, where the Jews are spiritually, regarding the gospel, they are what? Your enemies. That's pretty tough." [58:52] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "God's love is not a performance review. That is comforting to me, especially if you're a recovering Pharisee. As we tend to think, well, if I'm doing good and being good spiritually, God loves me more. And if I'm doing bad and doing bad spiritually, God loves me less. Tell me where that's the case in these verses. That is not how God's love works. My friends, God's love isn't a performance review. He's not up there scrutinizing your every move, waiting for you to slip up." [01:03:35] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "God's gifts and calling cannot be undone. This is good. I have given God many, many things in my life for Him to change His mind about. And yet, ironically, He goes, I don't change my mind. I knew, I factored in all your stupidity from the get-go. That's a very comforting thing, isn't it? The word here is irrevocable. In verse 29, let me read it to you. Since God's gracious gifts and calling are irrevocable. Irrevocable means it can't be undone." [01:08:51] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "When God gives a gift, whether it's to Israel, to His church, or to you, He doesn't include a receipt. He just gives it. When He calls you to a purpose, He doesn't change His heart about it halfway through. Like, man, I'm seeing what Josh is doing. Yeah, I'm going to take it out. His call on your life is from eternity past and is forever." [01:09:28] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "God's faithfulness isn't just for Israel. It includes all of those who are in Christ, right? You've been grafted in. Just as God remains true to his promises to his chosen people, he remains true to you. In Christ, God's abundant grace has showered us with even greater gifts. As good as those gifts I mentioned. I mentioned earlier, saints, you've got better gifts than Israel. You do." [01:13:50] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "The forgiveness of sins. Anybody want to run yet? The blood of Jesus, right, this Jewish Messiah, has washed away all your sin. He has offered you new life and a clean slate. Is he going to take it back? Never. Irrevocable. It's yours. You have the forgiveness of sin. You do. The second one, so sweet, so sweet. The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. What? I'm going to let you have a relationship with the third person of the Trinity." [01:15:06] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "Eternal life. Saints, you are free from the fear of death. Forever. Forever. Forever. Forever. And so, we see those things as a tremendous power. we breathe out our last, and we breathe in heaven's air. I mean, that's what belongs to you. We have the promise of life everlasting with Christ." [01:16:51] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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