Thursday, 19 September 2013
For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” Romans 10:11
Paul again quotes Isaiah 28:16 as he did in Romans 9:33. His citation is using the Greek translation of this verse and adding the term “whoever.” Along with Isaiah 28 though, Isaiah 49:23 carries a similar thought –
“Then you will know that I am the Lord, For they shall not be ashamed who wait for Me.”
In this verse, it is Lord (Jehovah) speaking. Paul’s use of verses in this manner, as with the other apostles, is to show that Jesus is, in fact, Jehovah. He is the physical incarnation of Jehovah of the Old Testament. How so many people miss this is hard to understand, but miss it they do and they fail to accept God at His word.
Also, in citing the Old Testament in this manner, it demonstrates, quite clearly, that salvation by faith was anticipated even under the law. Paul has just gotten done with explaining “how” to be saved and then he cites this verse from under the time of the law to say that this “how” will not lead to disappointment. The reciprocal is also true – failing to seek justification by faith alone will lead to being “put to shame.”
Life application: Go back, read, and memorize Romans 10:9, 10. Then trust that what it says is true. In so doing, you also will not be put to shame. Then, go share this simple message of hope with others.
Lord, today I confess that I have spent too much of my time in the vain pursuits of life and haven’t spent enough time thinking about You, talking to You, reading Your word, and conversing with others about You. Lord, give Your servant the heart and desire to do these things as I should. Help me to bring to You the glory that You are due. This is my prayer. Amen.