Romans 11:5 meaning

Within the context of the Apostle Paul's argument in Romans, he highlights the existence of a believing remnant among the Israelites. This remnant serves as evidence that God's covenant with His people is not entirely voided despite a predominant unbelief. In Paul's day, just as in the time of the prophet Elijah, a faithful remnant has been preserved by God's grace. This notion reassures believers that God keeps His promises and selectively saves a few according to His divine will, emphasizing that divine choice is grounded in grace rather than human merit.

The essence of this passage is captured in the phrase that highlights this remnant’s status as being “according to the election of grace.” This classification indicates that the inclusion of any in the faithful group is purely due to God's sovereign choice, not by works or lineage. Indeed, this theme aligns with the broader biblical concept that salvation is a gift of grace, accessible to all who believe, reinforcing the idea that God's plan encompasses both Jews and Gentiles alike, allowing for hope and restoration for Israel in God's redemptive timeline (Romans 11:5, NASB95).