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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.com | DownloadCambridge Greek Testament for Schools and Colleges - Romans 11:16 - 11:16
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16. εἰ δὲ ἡ ἀπαρχὴ, κ.τ.λ. The metaphor is from Num 15:20-21. ἁγία in both clauses is used in its technical sense of consecrated to GOD’s use, without immediate reference to the character of the thing or person consecrated: but the consecration shows the true destiny of the thing consecrated. The verse gives the ground for the hope of a πρόσλημψις of Israel. The consecration of the firstfruits, of the root, involves the consecration of the whole organism. It is not annulled by the lapse of some members. New members are brought in by the mercy of GOD; but this does not exclude the possibility of the recall of those who fell away; such is the resourcefulness of the mercies of GOD. Thus ἀπαρχὴ and ῥίζα = the patriarchs (cf. S. H. and Giff.); the φύραμα and the κλαδοὶ = the generality of Israel; those that remain faithful are the true Israel, the remnant on which faithful Gentiles are grafted. So the true life of Israel persists in the Church in Christ. For this use of ἀπαρχή, cf. 1Co 16:15, 2Th 2:13 (v.l.), Jam 1:18, Rev 14:4. The thought is present in Rom 8:19.