Why is it significant that not all Israelites are considered the true Israel?

Romans 9 articulates the critical understanding that not all who are descended from Israel are part of the true Israel. This signifies that God's covenant is not merely on the basis of physical descent but on His sovereign choice and promise. Paul argues that being a child of God is defined by faith and divine promise rather than heritage or works. This theological viewpoint establishes that God’s grace extends beyond ethnic boundaries, inviting all who believe to be counted as His children, reinforcing the importance of grace over merit in salvation.