Theology for the Church Romans 11:26: All Elect Israel: Ethnic Remnant with Sam Storms
Nov 10, 2025
In this discussion, theologian Sam Storms dives deep into Romans 11:26, addressing the concept of 'All Israel' and its implications for ethnic Israel. He explores the tension of Jewish unbelief while arguing for a remnant among them. Storms critiques popular interpretations about the church and emphasizes the olive tree metaphor as a unified covenant people. He also highlights the mystery of Jewish unbelief leading to Gentile blessings, offering insights into Old Testament prophecies that connect directly to Christ.
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Paul's Remnant Framework
- Paul addresses why many ethnic Israelites rejected the Messiah by distinguishing between all ethnic Israel and an elect remnant within Israel.
- God's saving purpose historically focused on a remnant, so widespread Jewish unbelief doesn't mean God's promises failed.
God Still Works Through A Jewish Remnant
- Romans 11 argues that God has not abandoned ethnic Israel but works through a remnant to bring Jews to faith across history.
- Paul frames salvation of Jewish elect as an ongoing process linked to Gentile inclusion, not complete national rejection.
Reading 'All Israel' As The Jewish Remnant
- 'All Israel' in Romans 11 likely refers to the total number of elect Jews—the remnant—rather than the church as a whole.
- A sudden switch to mean 'the church' would jar the flow since Paul consistently addresses ethnic Jews in preceding verses.
