9:25
Paul quotes from Hosea 2:23. In its original context the prophecy is referring to the ten tribes of Israel who formed the northern kingdom and had been rejected because of their apostasy, but God would call them back. The point that Paul is making is that those who were deservedly rejected are called back to be His people. This applied to the tribes of Israel, in the same way it applies to the Gentiles. Yes they did worship all sorts of false gods, as did Israel, and they received judgement as a results, as did Israel, but God was showing them mercy.
See that there is a recognition of judgement, “not my people”, and a showing of mercy. The gospel is about God showing mercy to sinners, we need the bad news in order for the good news to make sense.
There are some interesting side points as well.The quotation is a somewhat loose quote from the LXX, so while accurate translation of the Bible is important, maybe we should not get too hung up on particular Bible versions. More importantly, Israel can be seen as a microcosm of God’s dealings with the world. The full depravity of sin can be seen in Israel, as can the full extent of God’s mercy. Many look down on Israel and despise her, even Christians. The truth is that if Israel cannot be saved then no one can be saved. How all this works out will be revealed in the rest of 9-11. Conversely, Israel needed then, and needs now, to realise that she is no different from any other people. They are a sinful people who need to repent and receive the grace of God in Christ Jesus.
9:26
The next quote comes from Hos 1:10. This time it is an exact quote from LXX. Paul again is stressing the character of God. God is a God who shows mercy to those whom He rightfully judged. The people rejected will be called “sons of the living God”. We need to appreciate how shocking it was to the Jews that Gentile dogs could be children of God and even call Him Father. Paul is showing that this is the very nature of God’s plans.
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