For my brethren

Romans 9:1-3 “I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:”

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Two phrases stand out in this passage; Paul has “great heaviness” and “continual sorrow.”

When we read this, we may wonder exactly how this zeal came about.

General knowledge of scripture tells us it must come forth of genuine love.

This kind of love is fostered by rejection of self, deep commitment to Christ, knowledge of scripture, and regular prayer.

It doesn’t just come upon us, it is cultivated by righteous action, in a clear conscience, with an understanding of Biblical reality.

Paul even came to the point of wishing his own salvation could be taken if it could save his brethren.

He did not come to this place overnight. His relationship with Christ brought him there on a long road of sincere devotion.

Romans 9:1-3 “I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:”