If you’ve ever wanted the Bible to tie everything up in a neat bow, Romans 9 is here to keep you on your toes! Pastor Jo unpacks Paul’s deep sorrow for his own people and the tough question: "what happens to those who seem to miss out on God’s promises?" Drawing on Shakespearean tragedy, golden calves, and even a nod to Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo and Juliet, Jo helps us see that God’s plans are rarely straightforward, but they are always faithful. We’re encouraged to sit in the discomfort, repent of our self-reliance and spiritual gatekeeping, and trust that God’s mercy welcomes all through faith in Jesus. The message reminds us that being part of God’s family isn’t about birthright or effort, but about humble faith, no Disney endings required.**Message Outline:**- The “tragedy” Paul feels for unbelieving Israel- The big “what if”: Has God’s word failed?- God’s mercy, sovereignty, and the challenge to our sense of fairness- The difference between birthright and faith- Potter and clay: who gets to decide?- The hope of renewal, God’s family is open to all through faith in Jesus- A call to humility, repentance, and trust in God’s ongoing plan**Bible Verses Mentioned:**Romans 9, Romans 9:1-5, Romans 9:6, Romans 9:14, Romans 9:24, Romans 9:32, Romans 9:33, Romans 1, Romans 2, Romans 4, Romans 8, Exodus 32, Exodus 33:19, Isaiah 8:14, Isaiah 28:16, Isaiah 10:22-23, Isaiah 1:9, Hosea 2:23, Hosea 1:10, Genesis 18:10, Genesis 21:12, Genesis 25:23, Malachi 1:2-3, Jeremiah 18:1-6, 1 Peter 2:6-8, Romans 3:23, Romans 1:16, Romans 8:1, Romans 8:31-32 CONNECT WITH RIVERLIFE CHURCH HERE AT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riverlifebaptistchurchFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverlifeBaptistChurchWebsite: https://riverlifechurch.org.au