Romans 11:15– The conciliation of the world

For if their casting away is the conciliation of the world, what will the taking back be if not life from among the dead?

In terms of content, this verse connects seamlessly with verse 12 and is also a further explanation of it (hence: “For”). What was called “their offense” in verse 12 is here called “their casting away”. Israel’s rejection of the resurrected Messiah caused the message of the “conciliation of the world” to go to the nations.

“The conciliation of the world” is the message of the apostle Paul who is the only one in the NT to speak of ‘conciliation’. He was entrusted with “the dispensation” and “the word of the conciliation” (2Cor.5:18-20). It is the message that God in Christ reconciles the world to himself. God makes enemies and aliens, friends of Him. Christ was killed by the world but he also died for that same world, to give them Life. It is this proof of God’s love that will (eventually) melt all hostile hearts. This word is not an offer but a communication.

While Israel’s rejection closed a door, God subsequently opens a window to the nations. With a view of a GOD who reconciles the world to Himself and thereby proves that He defies all enmity!

Delen: