New Testament
Romans 9:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
before the children were born and had done nothing good or bad, so that God's purpose according to his choosing might stand, not because of works but because of him who calls —
Compare translations
(For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)
What Romans 9:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 9:11, Paul emphasizes that God's choice of individuals for His purpose is not based on their actions or merits. The verse refers to the twins Jacob and Esau, who were chosen before they were born, highlighting that God's election is rooted in His sovereign will rather than human deeds. This underscores the idea that salvation and God's plans are initiated by His calling, not by human effort or righteousness. The focus is on God's grace and the divine decision-making process that transcends human understanding. This passage challenges the notion that our worthiness or actions can influence God's choices, reminding believers that it is God's purpose and calling that ultimately prevail. It invites reflection on the nature of divine sovereignty and grace, encouraging trust in God's plan regardless of personal circumstances or achievements.
How to apply Romans 9:11 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's plan for our lives, recognizing that our worth is not based on our actions but on His grace. It reminds us to rely on God's calling and purpose, fostering humility and gratitude in our faith journey.
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 9:11
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 9:11
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 9:11 mean?
Romans 9:11 means that God's choice of individuals for His purpose is not based on their actions or merits. It highlights that God's election is rooted in His sovereign will, emphasizing that salvation is initiated by His calling, not by human effort.
What is the meaning of election in Romans 9:11?
In Romans 9:11, election refers to God's sovereign choice to select certain individuals for His purpose before they were born, independent of their actions. This underscores the idea that God's plans are based on His grace and will, rather than human deeds.
How does Romans 9:11 relate to grace?
Romans 9:11 relates to grace by showing that God's choice is not based on human merit or works, but solely on His grace and calling. This emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, not something earned by our actions.
What does Romans 9:11 teach about human effort?
Romans 9:11 teaches that human effort does not determine God's choices or plans. It reinforces the idea that God's purpose stands independent of our actions, highlighting the importance of relying on His grace.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.