The term "graff" is not directly found in the Bible; however, it is closely related to the concept of "grafting," which is a significant metaphor used in the New Testament. Grafting is an agricultural practice where a branch from one plant is inserted into another plant so that they grow together as one. This imagery is used by the Apostle Paul to illustrate the relationship between Israel and the Gentiles in God's redemptive plan.

Biblical Context

The primary biblical reference to grafting is found in Romans 11, where Paul discusses the inclusion of the Gentiles into the promises of God originally given to Israel. In this passage, Paul uses the metaphor of an olive tree to describe how Gentiles, who were not originally part of God's chosen people, have been grafted into the rich root of the olive tree, symbolizing the blessings and promises of God.

Romans 11:17-18 states: "But if some branches were broken off, and you, a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root, do not boast over those branches. If you do, remember this: You do not support the root, but the root supports you."

Theological Significance

The concept of grafting in Romans 11 highlights several theological themes:

1. Unity in Diversity: The grafting metaphor emphasizes the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ. Despite their different backgrounds, both groups are brought together into one body through faith in Jesus Christ. This unity is not based on ethnic or cultural identity but on the shared faith and promises of God.

2. Grace and Humility: The passage warns Gentile believers against arrogance. They are reminded that their inclusion is an act of God's grace, not a result of their own merit. This serves as a call to humility and gratitude, recognizing that it is God's mercy that allows them to partake in the blessings of the covenant.

3. Faithfulness of God: The imagery of grafting underscores God's faithfulness to His promises. Even though some of the natural branches (unbelieving Israel) were broken off due to unbelief, God remains committed to His covenant. The possibility of re-grafting the natural branches (Romans 11:23) demonstrates God's ongoing plan for Israel and His desire for their restoration.

4. Warning Against Complacency: Paul uses the grafting metaphor to caution believers against complacency. Just as the natural branches were removed due to unbelief, so too can the grafted branches be removed if they do not continue in faith (Romans 11:20-22). This serves as a sober reminder of the necessity of perseverance in faith.

Practical Application

The metaphor of grafting encourages believers to appreciate the richness of their spiritual heritage and to live in a manner worthy of their calling. It calls for a spirit of unity and mutual respect among believers of different backgrounds, recognizing that all are part of the same spiritual family through Christ. Additionally, it serves as a reminder to remain steadfast in faith, relying on the sustaining grace of God.

In summary, while the term "graff" itself is not explicitly mentioned in Scripture, the concept of grafting provides profound insights into the nature of God's redemptive work and the unity of His people.1. (n.) A steward; an overseer.

2. (n. & v.) See Graft.

1461. egkentrizo -- to take pride in, glory in
... 1461 () occurs six times, all in Ro 11:17-24. graft into. From en and a derivative
of kentron; to prick in, ie Ingraft -- graff in(-to). see GREEK en. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1461.htm - 7k

Psalm LXXIII.
... And who doth graff the wild olive on the olive? The olive is wont to be graffed
on the wild olive; the wild olive on the olive we never saw. ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm lxxiii.htm

London Missionary Society.
... Caffraria, in 1799. In 1801, he removed to Graff Reinet, and preached to
the Hottentots in that vicinity. These missions afterwards ...
/.../hayward/the book of religions/london missionary society.htm

Graff (1 Occurrence)
...Graff (1 Occurrence). Romans 11:23 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief,
shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again. ...
/g/graff.htm - 6k

Graffed (4 Occurrences)
... (KJV YLT). Romans 11:23 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall
be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again. (KJV YLT). ...
/g/graffed.htm - 7k

Graft (1 Occurrence)
... GRAFT. graft (egkentrizo; the Revised Version (British and American) "graft"; the
King James Version, "graff"): The word occurs 6 times in Romans 11. ...
/g/graft.htm - 9k

Graecia

/g/graecia.htm - 21k

Abide (162 Occurrences)
... (DBY). Romans 11:23 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be
graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again. (KJV DBY WBS). ...
/a/abide.htm - 38k

Graff: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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