2 that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh,
9:2
that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart.
Paul had deep anguish in his heart, about which he is ready to write. Much of Israel had rejected their Messiah. Paul sent a message here to Jews about how much he loved them.
9:3
For I could wish [not a reality] that I myself [emphatic] were accursed [anathema] from Christ for my brethren,
Paul’s love was so great for his countrymen in Israel that he wished he could take their hell on himself personally. This was impossible, but it showed that he was a man who was deadly earnest. He spoke in hyperbole here.
my countrymen according to the flesh,
His countrymen were the nation Israel.
PRINCIPLE:
Our witness should always carry compassion to those with whom we share Christ.
APPLICATION:
Proclaiming a message of judgment should be done with compassion. We should approach the lost with a sense of burden for their welfare. Sharing Christ always involves passion.
