“Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear.” -Romans 11:19–20
Paul now issues a more direct warning to the Gentiles against any kind of boasting. It is true that the natural branches were broken off so that the Gentile could be grafted in, but the natural branch, the Jew, was broken off because of unbelief. The very reason the Gentile has been grafted in is because of belief. So, it is paramount to remember that salvation is all of grace through faith.
Paul warns the Gentiles to not become proud but to fear (Cf. Proverbs 3:7). Peter had given a similar warning to the Christians in his letter:
“For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” -2 Peter 1:8–11
As did Paul in his letter to the Philippians. “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” -Philippians 2:12–13
As did the author of Hebrews to his audience. “Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it.” -Hebrews 4:1
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