Romans 11:16-18,22-23 - If the dough offered as firstfruits is holy, so is the whole lump, and if the root is holy, so are the branches. But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you…Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God's kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off. And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again.
Numbers 15:20 - Of the first of your dough you shall present a loaf as a contribution; like a contribution from the threshing floor, so shall you present it.
John 15:2 - Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.
Application:
· This concept of the firstfruits is a symbol that all blessing is from the Lord and all produce belongs to Him.
· Cuts off is a reference to judgment.
· Any adequate doctrine of God must include kindness and sternness. When we ignore His kindness, God seems a ruthless tyrant; when we ignore His sternness, He seems a doting father.
· Paul holds out hope for the Jews—God is able.
All Scripture verses taken from ESV
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