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NASB | Romans 9:11 for though the twins were not yet born and had not done anything good or bad, so that God's purpose according to His choice would stand, not because of works but because of Him who calls, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Romans 9:11 and though the twins were not yet born and had not done anything either good or bad, so that God's purpose [His choice, His election] would stand, not because of works [done by either child], but because of [the plan of] Him who calls them, |
Bible Question: Does this verse say that GOD chooses or that we choose? |
Bible Answer: Hi, Barean... Welcome to the forum! Always read passages of Scripture in context. Frequently the verse in question will become clear in the full context, or another verse will summarize the full context. The passage you are asking about is, indeed, summarized by Paul when he says, "So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy." (Romans 9:16 ESV) Kay Arthur used to say, "God's provision always precedes our need." You see, God graciously and lovingly begins the work of transformation in my heart while I am yet estranged from Him. His work changes my heart such that I am able to choose Him! Augustine pointed out that grace does not destroy the will but repairs it! Along these same lines, John Calvin wrote, "Men by their own free will cannot turn to God until He first change their stony hearts into hearts of flesh." (cf Ezekiel 36:26) Of course, Romans 9 is perfectly in the context of the earlier eight chapters of Romans. I read recently a sermon by John Piper, from a communion Sunday, where he specifically discusses Romans 9 in its context. This might be helpful for you: "And it is utterly crucial for us as we move to the Lord’s table. Will the promises of Romans 8 stand? Will the blood-bought promises that we Gentiles and Jews are staking our lives on stand? Will God stand by His commitments, sealed with the blood of His Son? Will he work all things together for our good? Will the predestined be called and the called be justified and the justified be glorified? Will He give us all things with Him? Will nothing separate us from the love of God in Christ? Is there really now no condemnation, and will there be none tomorrow? "Romans 9 comes after Romans 8 for this utterly crucial reason: It shows that the word of God’s covenant with Israel has not failed, because it is grounded in God’s sovereign, electing mercy. Therefore the promises to the true Israel and the promises of Romans 8 will stand! That is the gospel of Romans 9. The promises purchased by the blood of Christ will be performed by the sovereign power of God. "Oh, how thankful, how humble, and how confident we should be as we worship the Lord at His table." In Him, Doc |