“And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.”
(Romans 9:26)
Romans 9:26 is a beautiful demonstration of God’s mercy, love, and grace in action, “And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.” How fully this verse reflects the Father’s desire to take those who were once alienated and place them in His family… to rescue us from a place of abandonment, rejection, and despair and bring us into a place of belonging.
This promise of belonging, of being called the children of God, is extended to all who believe in Christ. In truth, the Gospel opens the door for all people to be brought into God’s covenant of grace where they are loved, accepted, and given new life.
His covenant of grace also reflects the Father’s desire to welcome us into a personal relationship with Him that surpasses any former understanding and experience of love or covenant because the intimate and enduring covenant between God and His people is grounded in His boundless love, mercy, and faithfulness. It is akin to a divine betrothal representing a deep and lasting union where He promises to bring us to Himself, even those who were once far away.[1]
Romans 9 further elaborates on how God’s love transcends our failures. The Jewish people, despite their idolatry and rebellion, were still within the reach of His promise. In the same way, God extends His sovereign grace to all people, both Jew and Gentile, calling them to repentance and promising restoration. He promises not only to welcome His people but also to transform them by giving them new hearts and taking away their sins.
The ultimate end of God’s covenant of love is to establish and grow a relationship between Himself and His people that yields eternal benefits—righteousness, faith, and justification through Christ. This truth is evident throughout Romans 9 as Paul likens the promise of betrothal to salvation through faith. The true fulfillment of His promise is found in the work of Jesus, who brings reconciliation and adopts us as children of the living God.
For believers today, Romans 9:26 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness. Even when we feel distant, even when we struggle with sin, God’s promises do not waver. His love is constant, and His commitment to us is sure. We may have once been “not a people,” but through Christ, we are now “the children of the living God.”
Contemplations:
- God’s Unwavering Faithfulness. As I reflect on Romans 9:26, I am reminded of the faithfulness of God, who calls me His child even when I feel unworthy. There have been times in my life when I felt distant from Him, but His promise never changes. He declares over me, “You are my people,” even when I doubt or fail. It is a comfort to know that my relationship with God is not based on my performance but on His unshakable love and grace.
- The Grace of Being Chosen. The fact that God would choose me, despite my flaws and sins, humbles me. Romans 9:26 reminds me that I was once far from God, undeserving and without hope, yet He brought me into His family. This was not because of anything I did, but because of His mercy. I am called to rest in this truth: that God’s grace is a gift, and it is His love that brought me into His covenant, not my own efforts or merits.
- A Covenant of Peace. God’s promise of peace assures me that His covenant extends beyond just spiritual blessings. While physical safety may not always be guaranteed, I know that in Christ, I have a peace that transcends all understanding. This peace comes from knowing that I belong to Him, that He is my protector, and that He will ultimately bring me into eternal rest. This gives me confidence to face whatever challenges come my way.
- The Universal Call of God’s Love. Romans 9:26 speaks to the vastness of God’s love—how it reaches beyond just one nation or group of people. This truth encourages me as I consider how God’s grace is not limited by borders, race, or background. His love extends to all who believe. I find comfort in knowing that His arms are open wide, ready to embrace anyone who turns to Him in faith. This motivates me to share His love with others, knowing there is no one beyond His reach.
Further References for Rom. 9:26:
Hosea 1:10; Matt. 16:16; John 11:52; Rom. 8:14; Gal. 3:26.
[1] John Owen, The Doctrine of the Saints Perseverance, (London: Leon. Lichfield .., 1654), 147.
