Paul’s vocation: The framework for Romans 9–11

I know, I know. We are the chosen people.
But once in a while, can’t you choose someone else?

Tevye (to God), Fiddler on the Roof.

I myself am an Israelite,
from the seed of Abraham,
tribe of Benjamin.

The Apostle Paul (Romans 11:1)

In my book, I argue that Paul’s apostolic mission plays a decisive role in his argument about Israel in Romans 9-11.

When we examine the argument of Rom 9–11, we see that it is not just about Israel. It is also, quite fundamentally, about Paul. The aim of this chapter is to show that Paul’s apostolic mission plays a decisive role in his argument about Israel. Paul presents his own apostolic vocation, in various ways, as a contrast to, a fulfilment of, and a means of hope for Israel’s role in God’s worldwide purposes. Paul, in other words, is using the fundamentally Jewish nature of his apostolic mission to show that his own apostolic ministry fulfils the vocation of Israel. (pp. 195-196)

The full details of the argument and further references may be found in chapter 6 of the book (pp. 195-247). The chapter is available from the publisher in electronic format:

• 6. Paul’s fulfilment of Israel’s vocation (Romans 9–11)

Windsor, Lionel J. Paul and the Vocation of Israel: How Paul’s Jewish Identity Informs his Apostolic Ministry, with Special Reference to Romans. BZNW 205. Berlin / Boston: Walter de Gruyter, 2014.