Israel's salvation: The meaning of "all Israel" in Romans 11:26

Abstract

This dissertation seeks to find out what Paul means when he writes, "and so all Israel will be saved" in Romans 11:26. Does the phrase "all Israel" refer to the ethnic Israel, the elect Israel, or the church? What is Paul's view of salvation of Israel in the epistle of Romans? Chapter 1 shows that previous studies have not paid enough attention to the meaning of the phrase "all Israel" in its New Testament usage. The handling of the context of Isaiah in the interpretations of Romans 11:26-27 in previous studies has been inadequate.

Chapter 2 studies Paul's use of the Old Testament, specifically, his quotation of Isaiah 59:20, 21 and 27:9. In Isaiah, there is a redeemed Israel, which will be blessed, and a rebellious Israel, which will be judged. Paul's quotation of the Isaiah texts emphasizes the forgiveness of sins brought about by the coming of the deliverer, referring to the first coming of Christ. The name "Jacob" stresses the ethnicity of the people. "Israel" and "Jacob," however, are often used interchangeably in the Old Testament, especially in poetic passages.

Chapter 3 studies the use of the phrase "all Israel" in the Old Testament, early Jewish literature, and the New Testament. It refers to the covenant people of God in the Old Testament. It does not necessarily include everyone in Israel. In early Jewish apocalyptic literature, the phrase "all Israel" often refers to the faithful Israelites throughout the ages.

Chapter 4 examines the biblical and theological contexts of Romans, followed by a careful exegesis of Romans 11:25-32. The researcher argues that "all Israel" in Romans 11:26 refers to the elect Israel throughout the ages. They are saved by faith in Jesus Christ. The fullness of Israel comes about by Israelites turning to Christ in faith through the preaching of the gospel.

Chapter 5 evaluates and interacts with various views of salvation of Israel mentioned in chapter 1. The researcher applies the result of this study to the issue of Jewish mission. Finally, a conclusion summarizes the main theses of this dissertation.