Journal: Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society
Volume: JETS 58:3 (Sep 2015)
Article: Has The Church Put Israel On The Shelf? The Evidence From Romans 11:15
Author: Jim R. Sibley

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JETS 58:3 (September 2015) p. 571

Has The Church Put Israel On The Shelf?
The Evidence From Romans 11:15

Jim R. Sibley*

* Jim Sibley is professor of Biblical Studies at Israel College of the Bible, 47 David Pinkas St., P.O. Box 13401, Netanya 42138, Israel.

I. Introduction

The relationship of the church to Israel is central to ecclesiology. Many scholars and theologians hold supersessionist understandings of the relationship and use a variety of texts to support their position. Among those who claim not to espouse a supersessionist reading of Scripture, there is yet the view that the church has temporarily filled the theological space once occupied by Israel, whether by redefinition, expansion, or fulfillment. Regarding the present status of the nation, many accept a temporary, de facto replacement of Israel by the church, although they believe in a future restoration of the nation. For example, John A. Witmer says, “Today evangelism of the world must include the Jews, but the priority of the Jews has been fulfilled.”1

Perhaps in order to avoid the charge of supersessionism, Darrell Bock defines supersessionism (i.e. “replacement theology”) in terms of eschatology. He says, “[Replacement taxonomy] focuses on how the fate of Israel, either as a nation or as a people, is ultimately seen. In other words, Israel can be ‘replaced for now’ at the centre of God’s programme without being permanently replaced.”2 This position seems to find support from several passages, including Dan 9:26–27; Matt 21:43; and Rom 11:15.3 This article examines Rom 11:15 and its context in order to answer

JETS 58:3 (September 2015) p. 572

the question: Does Rom 11:15 support the view that Israel has been temporarily rejected?

Paul begins Romans 11 with a strong denial that God has rejected Israel. How is it possible, then, for some to still speak of Israel’s rejection? The problem comes with verse 15, which begins, “For if their rejection4 be the reconciliation of the world.” Literally, the original reads, “for if the rejection of them ….” Does Rom 11:15 teach that God has rejected I...

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