Romans 9:10-13 And not only so, but also when Rebekah had conceived children by one man, our forefather Isaac,11 though they were not yet born and had done nothing either good or bad—in order that God’s purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls— 12 she was told, “The older will serve the younger.”13 As it is written, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.”
Paul now turns to the next generation. Isaac and Rebekah faced a similar situation to Abraham and Sarah. They were barren but God answered their prayers with twins. This situation was a reminder to Isaac that the promises made to his father, Abraham, would come through faith and not by human ability. The birth of Jacob and Esau was a further reminder of faith. Culturally, Esau should have inherited the promises and birthright. God reversed this with the prophecy and fulfillment of Jacob receiving these. The key idea in these stories is that the patriarchs had to rely on God and had to grow in their faith. This is how salvation has always worked. Salvation has always been by grace through faith. Paul did not invent this doctrine but found it expressed especially in the patriarchs. The people of God find their origins in God’s grace and not human effort. Salvation comes through faith and not by works.
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