New Testament
Romans 14:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For the kingdom of God is not about food and drink, but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Compare translations
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
What Romans 14:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul emphasizes that the essence of God's kingdom is not found in physical things like food and drink. Instead, it is characterized by spiritual qualities: righteousness, peace, and joy that come from the Holy Spirit. Righteousness refers to living in a way that is right and just according to God's standards. Peace signifies a deep sense of harmony and well-being, both with God and others. Joy is a profound sense of happiness and contentment that is rooted in our relationship with God. This verse encourages believers to focus on these spiritual aspects rather than getting caught up in external matters that can divide or distract them. It serves as a reminder that true fulfillment and community in the faith come from embodying these qualities, which reflect the nature of God's kingdom.
How to apply Romans 14:17 to your life
To live out this verse, prioritize spiritual growth over material concerns. Seek to cultivate righteousness, peace, and joy in your life and relationships. Engage with others in ways that promote these qualities, fostering a community that reflects the true nature of God's kingdom.
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 Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
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 PlansAsk AI about Romans 14:17
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 14:17
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 14:17 mean by 'righteousness'?
In Romans 14:17, 'righteousness' refers to living in accordance with God's standards and principles. It involves making choices that reflect justice, integrity, and moral uprightness. This righteousness is not just about following rules but about embodying the character of Christ in our actions and relationships, leading to a life that honors God.
How can I cultivate peace as mentioned in Romans 14:17?
To cultivate peace as described in Romans 14:17, focus on building harmonious relationships with others. This can involve practicing forgiveness, actively listening, and seeking to understand different perspectives. Additionally, spend time in prayer and meditation to foster inner peace, which can then extend to your interactions with others, creating a peaceful environment.
What does joy in the Holy Spirit mean in this verse?
Joy in the Holy Spirit, as mentioned in Romans 14:17, refers to a deep, abiding happiness that comes from a relationship with God. This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in the assurance of God's love and presence. It is experienced through the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, enabling us to find contentment and gratitude even in challenging times.
How can I focus on spiritual aspects instead of physical ones?
To focus on spiritual aspects rather than physical ones, prioritize activities that nurture your faith, such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. Set aside time for reflection on your values and goals, ensuring they align with God's kingdom principles. Additionally, practice gratitude for spiritual blessings rather than material possessions, which can help shift your perspective.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.