Christopher Ash helpfully explains how the privileges belonging to Israel in Romans 9:1–5 are fulfilled in Christ.

He is:

• the focus of Israel’s adoption (the one who fulfills Israel’s calling as son of God, eg. Matt. 2:15 quoting Hosea 11:1);
• the presence on earth of the divine glory (John1:14);
• the climax of the covenants who brings in the New Covenant which fulfills all that the previous covenants intended (e.g. Matt. 26:28);
• the goal and purpose of the law (10:4);
• the fulfillment of the priesthood and sacrifices (as in the letter to the Hebrews);
• the confirmation of the promises to the patriarchs (15:8; 2 Cor. 1:20).

This is why these privileges mean nothing unless we are joined to Christ by faith.

From Teaching Romans Volume 2: Unlocking Romans 9-16 for the Bible Teacher by Christopher Ash 📚

Finished reading: Exodus by Douglas K. Stuart 📚 A solid, detailed technical commentary on the book of Exodus.

Finished reading: The Message of Exodus by J. Alec Motyer 📚 This volume was less helpful than some in preparing to teach a recent class. Still, Motyer is always worth consulting for his good insights.

Finished reading: The God Who Makes Himself Known by W. Ross Blackburn This book helped me better grasp one of the major themes of the book of Exodus. Recommended for anyone teaching or preaching through Exodus. 📚

Finished reading: God in Our Midst by Daniel R. Hyde This book is a helpful examination of the how the tabernacle and its various components reveal God’s character, and point to Christ. 📚

Finished reading: How to Lead Your Family by Joel R. Beeke. Two days in and I’ve already finished what may be my most impactful book of the year. (Yes it’s short. It’s also that good.) I’ll be recommending this one frequently. 📚

This week’s beach read: Glory of Christ by John Owen 📚

Finished reading: The Spirit of the Age by J. V. Fesko 📚 This brief, somewhat technical overview provides a helpful historical survey and analysis of the confession’s pneumatology.

Finished re-reading: The Kingdom of God by Jeffrey Johnson 📚 An excellent book. One of the best introductions to historic baptist covenant theology that I’ve read.

Finished reading: Taught by God by Brandon D. Smith which makes the case for the admiration and retrieval of a premodern form of interpretation. 📚