What does Romans 9 teach about election and rejection?

In Romans 9, Paul addresses the complex dynamic of God's election and the rejection of Israel. He clarifies that not all who are of Israel are true Israel (Romans 9:6), emphasizing that God's election is based on His purposes rather than human lineage. The case of Jacob and Esau exemplifies this point, as God declared His choice before they were born (Romans 9:11-13), illustrating His sovereign authority. This chapter teaches that God's mercy and hardening are part of His divine will, demonstrating that God's ways are far beyond human understanding. Ultimately, it reassures believers that God's plans for His elect are unfailing.