Romans 3:2
2 Much [polus] every [kata] [pas] way [tropos]: chiefly [proton], because [men] [gar] that [hoti] unto them were committed [pisteuo] the oracles [logion] of God
[theos].
KJV-Interlinear
2 Much
in every way. To begin with, the Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God. ESV
An oracle typically refers to the response of a deity,
or to the place where that response is received, or to the person through whom
that response was conveyed.
Oracle is always centered on the response from the
higher power. And whether through the
prophets in their writings in the Old Testament, or through the many false
Greek gods and the mythical stories that are common, the oracle is a place
where one goes to ask direction or guidance or advice, and then receives some
appropriate response.
And here, the Jews were blessed with the oracles, as
it were, from the one and only true deity, who we identify as God, but more
commonly call by name, Jesus Christ.
In this world we find ourselves recognizing many
honors. Mostly, honors that humanity
bestows upon itself.
Athletes win a contest and are honored. Celebrities do well in some artistic activity
and they are honored. Students are
recognized with various honors for their academic effort. Employees are honored at their work. Cities
honor various public citizens. Even if
you are old, you get an honor of sorts just for lasting so long in this
world. And the list goes on.
But we know that this world in its entirety is
temporary at best. So, any worldly honor
is temporary as well. And anything that
is temporary is going to end, sooner or later, and then be forgotten.
But there is one honor, which comes from God, which is
eternal and will never end, and that honor, whatever it may be, is the highest
honor that anyone can possibly receive.
The Israelites were granted possession of Gods
Word. Which is the one and only link
that humanity has, which allows us to connect with God. And were it not for the scriptures and the
care they received over the centuries, we wouldn’t even have this study or a Bible
to rely upon for our relationship with God.
So, indeed, as Paul states, it is a huge honor to be
Jewish or of the heritage. And as for
you and me, salvation is an honor, granting us entrance into Gods personal
family. Spiritual growth is an honor, allowing
is to fulfill our meaning and purpose in life.
Of the many honors in life, only those granted us by
God, have intrinsic value and will never end.
