John Calvin Commentary Romans 9:13

"Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated." — Romans 9:13 (ASV)

As it is written, Jacob I loved, etc. He confirms, by a still stronger testimony, how much the heavenly answer given to Rebecca served his present purpose, that is, that the spiritual condition of both was indicated by the dominion of Jacob and the servitude of Esau, and also that Jacob obtained this favor through the kindness of God, and not through his own merit.

Then this testimony of the prophet shows the reason why the Lord conferred the primogeniture on Jacob. It is taken from the first chapter of Malachi (Malachi 1), where the Lord, reproaching the Jews for their ingratitude, mentions his former kindness to them. He says, “I have loved you,” and then he refers to the origin of his love: “Was not Esau Jacob’s brother?” This is as though he said, “What privilege did he have that I should prefer him to his brother?”

None whatever. It was indeed an equal right, except that by the law of nature the younger ought to have served the elder. Yet I chose the one and rejected the other; and I was thus led by my mercy alone, and by no worthiness of works. I therefore chose you for my people, that I might show the same kindness to the seed of Jacob; but I rejected the Edomites, the progeny of Esau.

You are then so much the worse, since the remembrance of so great a favor cannot stimulate you to adore my majesty.” Now, although earthly blessings which God had conferred on the Israelites are recorded there, it is still not right to view them as anything but symbols of his benevolence: for where the wrath of God is, there death follows; but where his love is, there is life.