What does Romans 11:17 mean?

Explanation

Romans 11:17 uses the metaphor of an olive tree to convey deeper spiritual meanings relating to the relationship between Israel (the "natural" branches) and the Gentiles (the "wild" olive branches).

In this analogy, the olive tree represents God's covenant people, Israel.

The "broken off" branches suggest the Israelites who, because of unbelief, have lost their place in the covenant.

The "wild olive tree" speaks to Gentiles who were not part of the original covenant.

These Gentiles have been "graffed in," or grafted, among the remaining, faithful Israelite branches.

By being grafted, Gentiles now share in the "root and fatness," which symbolizes the blessings and promises initially bestowed on Israel.

This verse emphasizes that although God's original covenant was with Israel, salvation and inclusion into the people of God have been extended to the Gentiles through faith in Christ.

Historical Context

Romans 11:17 is part of a larger discourse in which the Apostle Paul addresses the status of Israel in God's redemptive plan as laid out in his letter to the Roman church.

Composed around A.D. 56-58, this epistle provides insights into the early Christian understanding of the relationship between Jews and Gentiles within the church.

During this period, the early Christian community was grappling with the transition from seeing themselves as a sect within Judaism to a movement open to all people, regardless of ethnic or religious background.

The imagery Paul uses of grafting branches onto an olive tree reflects a common agricultural practice known to his readers and is employed to explain the profound mystery of Gentile inclusion into the covenant promises.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints exist on the interpretation of Romans 11:17:

• Replacement Theology: Some interpreters see the verse as evidence for the church replacing Israel as God's chosen people.

They argue that the unfaithful Israelites being broken off and replaced by faithful Gentiles demonstrates a transfer of divine favor.

• Dual-Covenant Theology: Others suggest that this verse supports the idea that God has separate covenants with Israel and the church, and that both remain valid ways of relating to God.
• Remnant Theology: Another perspective emphasizes a remnant of Israel remaining faithful to God and that the inclusion of Gentiles doesn't replace but enlarges the scope of God's people.
• Olive Tree Theology: Some theologians propose that both Jews and Gentiles are distinct yet united in the same olive tree, symbolizing one people of God with varied roots.

Practical Applications

Romans 11:17 can be applied in daily life in a number of ways:

• Unity in Diversity: It illustrates the importance of unity among believers despite different backgrounds.
• Inclusiveness: The verse invites Christians to embrace inclusivity, recognizing the value and contributions of all members in the community of faith.
• Humility: For Gentiles, it is a call to humility, remembering their status is due to God's grace and not inherent superiority.
• Not Despising Others: Believers are encouraged not to despise those who have not accepted the gospel, symbolized by the broken-off branches.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 2:12-13 - discussing the previous exclusion of Gentiles from the covenant and their subsequent inclusion through Christ.
• Galatians 3:28-29 - emphasizing that in Christ, there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile.
• John 15:1-5 - utilizing a similar horticultural metaphor, where Jesus describes Himself as the true vine and His followers as the branches.

Language Study

• "Graffed" (Grafted): The Greek word used here is "ἐγκεντρίζω" (enkentrizō), which literally refers to the horticultural practice of grafting a branch into a different tree to share its sap and nutrients.
• "Wild olive tree": This refers to wild olive trees, which could be considered inferior or not cultivated ("ἀγριέλαιος" - agrielaios).
• "Partakest": The term "συγκοινωνός" (sygkoinōnos) suggests sharing or participating together, reinforcing the concept of being incorporated into a common community.
• "Root and fatness": Root ("ῥίζα" - rhiza) signifies origin or foundation, and "fatness" ("πιότης" - piotēs) implies richness or fertility of the olive tree.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Romans 11:17 could be compared to other ancient myths or religious concepts involving trees symbolizing life, such as the Norse mythology's Yggdrasil, the sacred tree of life connecting the nine worlds, or the Bodhi Tree in Buddhism, under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.

In these traditions, trees often represent connectivity, growth, and spiritual nourishment.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the verse's use of grafting can be seen as metaphorically consistent with genetic diversity and hybrid vigor.

These concepts in agriculture and horticulture show the benefits of combining different plant varieties, which can often result in greater strength, productivity, and resistance to disease.

This metaphor can also relate to the idea of diverse people bringing strength to a community.

Commentaries

• John Stott: A notable theologian, saw Romans 11 as a powerful statement against the arrogance of Gentiles towards the Jewish people.

He argued for the concept that Gentiles were included in the same rich root of God's covenant with Israel.

• **N.T.

Wright**: Emphasizes the eschatological hope in this passage, where Paul looks forward to the full number of Gentiles entering in, which would lead to the salvation of all Israel.

• Douglas Moo: Comments that Paul's use of the olive tree metaphor is to argue that the Gentiles' salvation does not come at the expense of the Jews; rather, the promise to Abraham is being fulfilled in a way that includes both Jews and Gentiles.