Who is Paul speaking to in Romans 11:13?
Paul is speaking to Gentile believers at Rome and to Gentile believers in our own time. Although Romans 11 has addressed Israel for three chapters, verse 13 turns directly to Gentiles, with Paul declaring, 'I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles.'
Les explains that even though Paul has been dealing with the nation of Israel for three chapters, Romans 11:13 is important because Paul identifies his audience: the Gentile believers at Rome and the Gentile believers in our own time. Paul says, 'I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles.' Les highlights that some newer translations change 'the' to 'and,' which he says violates the text and changes Paul's whole position. If Paul were merely another apostle, he would be a liar, because he claims God revealed these great doctrines of grace to him alone. Les stresses that Paul would not back down from his role as God's man for the Gentile world, saying, 'I magnify my office.'
For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:
More Questions
Why is Romans 11:13 considered one of the most important verses in Paul's epistles?
Romans 11:13 is one of the most important verses in all of Paul's epistles, and Les urges readers to highlight it and lock it into their memory.
What is the significance of Romans 11:13?
In Romans 11:13 Paul, by inspiration, says he speaks to Gentiles as the apostle of the Gentiles, and this verse, though small and seemingly insignificant, means everything because of Paul's role.
Why does Romans 11:13 matter so much?
Romans 11:13, though it seems small and insignificant, is critically important because it reveals that Paul is the apostle of the Gentiles.
What change do some newer translations make to Romans 11:13 regarding Paul's apostleship?
Some newer translations change 'the apostle of the Gentiles' to 'an apostle of the Gentiles' in Romans 11:13.