Why is it important to distinguish between physical and spiritual Israel?

The distinction between physical and spiritual Israel is significant in interpreting Scripture and understanding God's redemptive plan. Romans 9:6 states, 'Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect, for they are not all Israel, which are of Israel.' This indicates that merely being a descendant of Abraham does not guarantee one a place in God's covenant family. Spiritual Israel encompasses all those who believe in Christ, as seen in Galatians 3:29, 'If you be Christ's, then are you Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.' This distinction helps believers comprehend their place in God's salvation history and affirms that faith in Christ is the true criterion for belonging to the family of God.