Embrace the Divine Grafting
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Aug 19, 2023
- 2 min read
For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; (Romans 11:16-17)
The Apostle Paul used the analogy of a tree to convey a powerful message of unity, humility, and the redemptive work of Christ.
Romans 11:16-17 begins with Paul getting us to pay attention to the root: “For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.” Here, the first fruit, the root of our faith, refers to Jesus Christ, who is our perfect example of holiness. As believers, we understand that through His sacrifice, we have been sanctified and made holy in His sight.
Paul then drew our attention to the branches. He spoke of some branches being broken off while others, representing the Gentiles, are grafted into the olive tree. We, as Gentile believers, were once wild olive trees, untamed and separated from the root. But through God's grace, He grafted us into the root, connecting us to the heritage of faith passed down from the Jewish people.
Christians should be full of gratitude and humility when we understand the grafting process. As Gentile believers, we must guard against arrogance and boastfulness. Our faith has been built upon the foundation laid by the patriarchs, prophets, and the Messiah Himself—Jesus, who were all Jewish followers of God.
Practical Application
In honor and respect, set aside intentional time to pray for Israel and the Jewish community worldwide. Pray for their protection, peace, and salvation. Ask God to reveal His redemptive plan for Israel and extend His mercy to them and send laborers across their path with words from the Holy Spirit.
