Romans 11:13-24

The Illustration Of The Olive Tree (11:13-24).

‘The Olive Tree' is the name of Israel specifically given to it by God. In Jeremiah we are told “YHWH called your name ‘a green olive tree', fair, with goodly fruit” (Jeremiah 11:16). The formula ‘YHWH called your name' is significant. It is the one used concerning YHWH's naming of Adam as the representative of mankind (Genesis 5:2). Thus it is indicating the official pronouncement of a permanent reality. Mankind was called ‘Man' by God. Israel is called by God ‘the green olive tree', probably with a view to it benefiting the world with what it produces. Olive oil was a major Israelite export. But as with the true vine in John 15:1, fire would come against it and disobedient branches would be ‘broken' (Jeremiah 11:16). YHWH who had planted it would bring evil against it. The continued existence of its people would depend ultimately on its faith and obedience.

Thus when Paul speaks of the olive tree from which branches would be broken off and into which branches would be grafted there is no doubt concerning what is primarily in mind. It is the Israel chosen by God, but as represented by those who are obedient, the ideal Israel in mind in Jeremiah 2:2. There is no room in such an olive tree for broken and unfruitful branches. They have to be removed. Here is a clear indication that it is the Jews who have believed in the Messiah who form the true Israel. Those of old Israel who have been disobedient and unbelieving are cast off. Believing Israel remain as branches in the olive tree. And, as Paul makes clear, the true Israel will be supplemented by Gentiles who also believe in the Messiah. They too become a part of the true Israel, the genuine continuation of the old Israel. When the cast off branches gather together and call themselves Israel, it is not as genuine Israel. They are not of the elect.