New Testament

Romans 10:5

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Romans 10:5, Paul references Moses to explain the concept of righteousness under the law.

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

CBTClear Bible Translation

Moses writes about the righteousness that comes from the law: "The person who does these things will live by them."

KJVKing James Version

For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Romans 10:5, Paul references Moses to explain the concept of righteousness under the law. He emphasizes that the law requires complete obedience; those who follow it must live by its commands. This means that righteousness is not just about belief but also about action. The law sets a standard that is impossible to fully achieve, highlighting the need for grace and faith in Christ for true righteousness. Paul contrasts this with the righteousness that comes through faith, which is accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability to follow the law perfectly. This verse serves as a reminder that while the law is important, it is not the ultimate means of achieving a right relationship with God. Instead, faith in Jesus Christ is the key to salvation and righteousness.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Romans 10:5 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the standards we set for righteousness. While striving to live according to God's commands is important, we must also remember that our salvation comes through faith in Christ, not our own efforts. Embrace grace and share this message with others.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 10:5 mean?

Romans 10:5 explains that Moses taught that righteousness through the law requires complete obedience. It emphasizes that those who follow the law must live by its commands, highlighting the impossibility of achieving righteousness solely through human effort.

What is the meaning of righteousness in Romans 10:5?

In Romans 10:5, righteousness refers to the standard set by the law, which demands perfect adherence to its commands. This verse illustrates that true righteousness cannot be attained through the law alone, pointing to the need for faith in Christ.

How does Romans 10:5 relate to faith?

Romans 10:5 highlights the limitations of the law in achieving righteousness, suggesting that faith in Christ is necessary for true righteousness. It shows that while the law is important, it is faith that ultimately leads to salvation.

Book Summary

The Book of Romans

Romans 1: Paul's Greeting and the Wrath of God Against Ungodliness

Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and separated to preach the gospel of God. He says this gospel concerns God's Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is made of the seed of David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that through Christ he receives grace and apostleship to bring about obedience of faith among all nations. He addresses the believers in Rome as those loved by God and called to be saints, and he gives thanks for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the whole world. He tells them he prays continually to visit them and longs to see them so he may share a spiritual gift and be comforted together with them by mutual faith.

Paul says he is ready to preach the gospel in Rome and declares he is not ashamed of it, because it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. He states that the righteousness of God is revealed in the gospel from faith to faith. He then describes the wrath of God revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth. He says people know God through creation, yet they do not glorify him as God. Their thinking becomes empty, and their foolish heart is darkened. They exchange the glory of the incorruptible God for images of corruptible creatures. God gives them over to uncleanness, dishonorable passions, and a reprobate mind. They fill themselves with all manner of unrighteousness and continue in these things while approving others who do the same. Romans 2: God's Righteous Judgment Paul addresses a person who judges others and says that anyone who judges commits the same kinds of sins. He warns that God's judgment is according to truth and that those who continue in evil will not escape. He explains that God will render to every man according to his deeds: eternal life to those who continue in well-doing, and indignation and wrath to those who obey unrighteousness. He says there is no respect of persons with God. Gentiles who sin without the law perish without the law, and Jews who sin under the law are judged by the law.

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