“For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ …”
Romans 9:3a NIV
Like every individual verse in the Bible, Paul’s words need to be read in its context. Who, as a disciple of Jesus, would want to be “cut off from Christ”?
At first glance, Paul’s words are intense and shocking. Taken by itself, this verse could confuse or even discourage us. That is why it is so important to read it in context. Paul is not abandoning Jesus or doubting his salvation. Instead, he is revealing his deep love for his bloodline—reflecting the very heart of Jesus.
Reading this verse in its proper context reminds us that Scripture is not a collection of disconnected sayings. The story of the Bible points to Jesus and reveals God’s heart. When we read the Bible carefully—in context—we hear not only commands and doctrines but the compassion and mission of God for a lost world.
Let’s read the rest of the verse:
“For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ … for the sake of my brothers, those of my own race, the people of Israel.”
Romans 9:3-4 NIV
In the opening verses of Romans 9, Paul expresses his deep grief over his “brothers” or fellow Israelites who have not yet embraced Jesus as the Messiah. He longs for them to know Christ.
Paul’s burden for people is an example for us to examine our own hearts.
Does our reading of Scripture move us beyond knowledge to share in the heart of Christ for the lost? Do we feel that kind of love for those in our families, neighborhoods, and workplaces who do not yet know Jesus?
Let’s take some time today to pray for those who are rejecting or far from Him. Father God, give us hearts that aches like Paul’s and boldness to reach out with Jesus aloha!
