The Deliverer from Zion: The Source(s) and Function of Paul's Citation in Romans 11:26-27

Abstract

This article argues that Paul’s Old Testament citation in Romans 11:26-27 includes Isaiah 59:20-21, 27:9, and 2:3. For Paul, Christ’s first advent inaugurates the fulfilment of these Isaianic prophecies; therefore, the salvation of ‘all Israel’ is not an exclusively future reality. The theme of Gentile blessing also accompanies these prophecies. Therefore, Paul expects that Gentile inclusion is part of the fulfilment of the promises to Israel. The implications of this argument are that the majority position of ‘all Israel’ in v. 26 as a reference to the future salvation of ethnic national Israel is untenable and that the emphasis on Gentile inclusion found earlier in Romans continues throughout the epistle.