8. That is, it is not the children by physical descent who are God’s children, but the children of the promise are considered to be the offspring.
9. For this is the statement of the promise: At this time I will come, and Sarah will have a son.
10. And not only that, but also Rebekah received a promise when she became pregnant by one man, our ancestor Isaac.
11. For though her sons had not been born yet or done anything good or bad, so that God’s purpose according to election might stand —
12. not from works but from the One who calls — she was told: The older will serve the younger.
13. As it is written: I have loved Jacob, but I have hated Esau.
14. What should we say then? Is there injustice with God? Absolutely not!
15. For He tells Moses:I will show mercyto whom I will show mercy,and I will have compassionon whom I will have compassion.
16. So then it does not depend on human will or effort but on God who shows mercy.