Romans 11:4

But what saith the answer of God unto him?. have left for myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to Baal. "the answer of God unto him?" -another proof that the O.T. is the inspired word of God. (1 Kings 2:18).

'I have left for myself' -to myself as my property, and for my service (McGarvey p. 446). But not against their will! (1 Peter 1:5; 2 Timothy 2:11)

'Elijah had claimed he was the only child of God left but God denied that, God didn't deny it by saying: "Come on, Elijah, there are millions of my people." On the contrary he lays explicit claim to 7000.' (McGuiggan pp. 318-319)

These were the 'people of God'. And what distinguished them as the people of God? THEIR FAITHFULNESS! 'Who have not bowed the knee to Baal'! God has never cast off Jews of this 'type', i.e. believing Jews.