New Testament
Romans 11:31
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
so they too have now been disobedient, so that by the mercy shown to you they also may receive mercy.
Compare translations
Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.
What Romans 11:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 11:31, Paul explains that the disobedience of the Israelites has a purpose. Their rejection of faith allows for the inclusion of the Gentiles, who receive God's mercy. This mercy shown to the Gentiles serves as a means for the Israelites to also receive mercy. Essentially, the cycle of disobedience and mercy highlights God's overarching plan for salvation, where even those who initially reject Him can find grace. This verse emphasizes that God's mercy is not limited to one group but is available to all, regardless of their past actions. It illustrates the interconnectedness of faith and mercy, showing that through the mercy extended to others, even those who have strayed can return to God and experience His love and forgiveness. This reflects the depth of God's compassion and His desire for all to come to Him, regardless of their previous disobedience.
How to apply Romans 11:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to extend mercy to others, recognizing that everyone has the potential for redemption. It reminds us that our own experiences of grace can be a pathway for others to find their way back to God. We should be patient and hopeful for those who seem far from faith.
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.
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
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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 PlansAsk AI about Romans 11:31
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 11:31
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 11:31 mean?
Romans 11:31 explains that the disobedience of the Israelites allows for the inclusion of the Gentiles, who receive God's mercy. This mercy extended to the Gentiles serves as a way for the Israelites to also receive mercy, highlighting God's plan for salvation.
What is the meaning of mercy in Romans 11:31?
In Romans 11:31, mercy refers to God's compassion and forgiveness offered to both Gentiles and Israelites. It emphasizes that despite disobedience, everyone has the opportunity to receive grace and return to God.
How does Romans 11:31 relate to salvation?
Romans 11:31 illustrates that God's plan for salvation includes both Jews and Gentiles. It shows that through the mercy given to one group, the other can also find redemption, emphasizing the universal nature of God's grace.
What themes are present in Romans 11:31?
Key themes in Romans 11:31 include mercy, disobedience, inclusion, faith, and God's overarching plan for salvation. The verse highlights how God's compassion extends to all, regardless of their past actions.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.