Romans 9:19

Thou wilt say then. This introduces the second possible objection that might be raised to Paul’s argument (see verse 14).

Find fault. The objector’s question may be paraphrased thus: If God Himself hardens a man’s heart, how can He go on finding fault with him? Is it just for God to blame sinners if their conduct is in accordance with His purpose and is the result of His irresistible will? Historically this objection may recall God’s rebuke to Pharaoh, “As yet exaltest thou thyself against my people, that thou wilt not let them go?” (Ex. 9:17) and, “How long wilt thou refuse to humble thyself before me?” (Ex. 10:3). In the case of Pharaoh the objector would say, “If God had chosen to harden the king’s heart, why did He yet find fault with him?” Compare on Ex. 9:15, 16.

Paul does not here attempt to give a full answer to this objection. His sole emphasis in this context is upon the fact that in His government of the world God reserves to Himself perfect freedom to deal with men on His own conditions, and not on theirs, without, of course, interfering with their opportunity for personal salvation.

By failing to recognize Paul’s emphasis, some theologians have been led to read into these verses ideas that Paul never intended. Calvin understood them to mean that God arbitrarily created some men for salvation and others for destruction. Such a concept of God’s purpose is not in agreement with Paul’s explanation elsewhere in this same epistle that God shows not partiality (Rom. 2:11) but judges each man according to his works (Romans 2:6-10; cf. Romans 3:22, 23) and will save everyone who calls upon Him (Romans 10:12, 13).

Hath resisted. The question means, “Who is there that is resisting God’s will?” implying that no one can resist Him.

Will. Greek boulema. This is not the common NT word for “will,” which is thelema (chapters 2:18; 12:2; 15:32). The only other NT occurrences of boulema are in Acts 27:43; 1 Peter 4:3. Boulema implies more definitely the idea of conscious and deliberate purpose.