Many of Paul's listeners might hear Paul to be saying that the Gentiles are replacing Israel. That would be a misunderstanding! Rather, Gentiles are like wild branches being grafted into a cultivated tree. No matter who we are, our inclusion is not a birthright or something God owes to us. Instead, our connection must always be one of gratitude and humility!

Looking for a previous devo? Want to share one with a friend? Start here:

https://www.highrock.org/daily-devotionals/

For Reflection:

Paul has been addressing the question of Israel. We are now two-and-a-half chapters into his three chapter answer.

- After two-and-a-half chapters, how do you understand the spiritual relationship between Gentiles, Jews, and Israel as a people? How might you explain this idea to a children's Sunday school class? Just as importantly, what are some of the questions that remain? (And there might be many!)

- What encouragement do you take from this passage, that you are like a wild branch that was grafted into the gardener's cultivated tree?