Time and Time again we are told the world is passing away...those with worldly views are going to be lost. Romans 12:2 "Do not conform to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect....Money and prestige will not save people, or denying their race. In Romans 9:1-5 Paul opens his discussion of Israel by underscoring the gravity of what he is about to say: " I am speaking the truth in Christ....I am not Lying." and he even summons his conscience as a separate witness "in the Holy Spirit." He is experiencing great sorrow and unceasing anguish in his heart. The cause of Paul's distress is the Israelites verse 4 whom he inclusively calls my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh." In a remarkable statement of selflessness, Paul says that he would be willing to forfeit his own salvation if he could gain his people's salvation. This all had to do with the idolatry and the worshiping the Calf. To may money, prestige, and power become idols and take precendence over God. All the world is going to get a real awakening about false Gods.