New Testament

Romans 1:17

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith, as it is written: 'The righteous shall live by faith.'

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

What Romans 1:17 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse emphasizes the importance of faith in understanding God's righteousness. It suggests that God's righteousness is not just a concept but is revealed progressively through faith. The phrase 'from faith to faith' indicates that faith is both the starting point and the ongoing journey for believers. The quote 'The righteous shall live by faith' underscores that a true relationship with God is sustained by faith, not by works or human effort. This principle is foundational for Christian living, highlighting that righteousness comes from trusting in God rather than relying on personal merit. The verse connects the Old Testament to the New Testament, showing continuity in God's message about faith. It reassures believers that their lives should be characterized by a deep, abiding trust in God, which leads to a righteous life.

How to apply Romans 1:17 to your life

To apply this verse, focus on cultivating a deeper faith in your daily life. Trust God in your decisions and challenges, knowing that righteousness comes from your relationship with Him. Reflect on how faith influences your actions and choices, leading to a life that honors God.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Jesus on the shore calling James and John as they sit in their boat mending their nets, with older men in the boat behind them

Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

John the Apostle

Excavated stone ruins below the high ancient walls at the south end of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Jerusalem

David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Romans 1:17

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Romans 1:17

At a Glance — the Book of Romans

Author
Paul the apostle
Written
Around AD 57
Genre
Letter (epistle)
Original Audience
Christians in Rome

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 1:17 mean?

Romans 1:17 explains that God's righteousness is revealed through faith. It emphasizes that living a righteous life is based on trusting God, rather than relying on personal efforts.

What is the meaning of 'the righteous shall live by faith' in Romans 1:17?

The phrase 'the righteous shall live by faith' means that those who are justified before God maintain their relationship with Him through faith. It highlights that faith is essential for a life that pleases God.

How does Romans 1:17 relate to Christian living?

Romans 1:17 teaches that Christian living is grounded in faith. It encourages believers to trust God in all aspects of life, showing that true righteousness comes from this trust.

What does 'from faith to faith' mean in Romans 1:17?

'From faith to faith' indicates that faith is both the beginning and the ongoing journey for believers. It suggests a progressive revelation of God's righteousness as one grows in their faith.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.