Romans 9:14-18
14 Are we saying, then, that God was unfair? Of course not!15 For God said to Moses,
“I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose.”
16 So it is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose it nor work for it.
17 For the Scriptures say that God told Pharaoh, “I have appointed you for the very purpose of displaying my power in you and to spread my fame throughout the earth.” 18 So you see, God chooses to show mercy to some, and he chooses to harden the hearts of others so they refuse to listen.
God’s Righteousness Stands — Pastor Lonnie D. Bell, Jr.
Romans 9:14-18
Sermon Series: Romans (59th sermon)
June 13, 2021
Deep Sheet: Sermon Study Questions
1. Why would Paul’s teaching in vv. 6-13 have raised questions about God’s righteousness in some people’s minds?
2. What are some arguments against election that you have heard based on God’s “fairness”? How does this passage help you to respond?
3. Why does Paul move the discussion from justice to mercy? How does this provide us with a better foundation for thinking about election?
4. How does v. 16 make clear that election is unconditional?
5. How does Pharaoh serve as an illustration? What is the role of God’s glory in Paul’s argument?
6. What does it mean that God hardened Pharaoh’s heart?
References: Romans 9:3; 11:5, 7; 9:22, 23; Genesis 18:25; Psalm 71:19; Romans 3:5; Exodus 33:19; 9:16; 15:14-16; Joshua 2:9-10.