New Testament

Romans 11:6

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

At a Glance

In this verse, Paul emphasizes the distinction between grace and works in the context of salvation.

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

CBTClear Bible Translation

And if it is by grace, then it is no longer based on works — otherwise grace would no longer be grace. But if it is by works, then it is no longer grace — otherwise work would no longer be work.

KJVKing James Version

And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Paul emphasizes the distinction between grace and works in the context of salvation. He argues that if salvation is based on grace, it cannot be earned through human effort or good deeds; otherwise, it would not truly be grace. Conversely, if salvation were based on works, it would negate the concept of grace. This highlights the idea that grace is a free gift from God, not something we can achieve through our own actions. The relationship between grace and works is crucial in understanding how believers are saved. It underscores that faith in Christ, rather than personal merit, is the basis for salvation. This principle is foundational to Christian theology, illustrating that human efforts cannot earn God's favor, and that true grace is unmerited and unconditional.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Romans 11:6 to your life

This verse encourages believers to rely on God's grace rather than their own efforts for salvation. It reminds us that our relationship with God is not based on what we do, but on His unearned love and mercy. Trusting in grace can bring peace and assurance in our faith journey.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 11:6 mean?

Romans 11:6 explains that salvation is based on God's grace and cannot be earned through human works. If it were based on works, it would contradict the very nature of grace, which is a free gift from God.

What is the meaning of grace in Romans 11:6?

In Romans 11:6, grace refers to God's unmerited favor towards humanity. It emphasizes that salvation is a gift that cannot be earned through good deeds or personal effort.

How does Romans 11:6 relate to salvation?

Romans 11:6 clarifies that salvation is solely based on God's grace, not on human efforts. This principle is essential for understanding how believers receive salvation.

Why is grace important in Romans 11:6?

Grace is important in Romans 11:6 because it underscores that salvation is a gift from God, not something we can achieve. This concept reassures believers that their faith is rooted in God's love and mercy.

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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