New Testament

Romans 9:26

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

At a Glance

In Romans 9:26, Paul quotes the Old Testament to illustrate a profound truth about God's grace and inclusion.

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

CBTClear Bible Translation

'And in the very place where it was said to them, "You are not my people," there they will be called sons of the living God.'

KJVKing James Version

And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Romans 9:26, Paul quotes the Old Testament to illustrate a profound truth about God's grace and inclusion. The phrase 'You are not my people' refers to the Israelites' rejection of God, but the promise is that those who were once excluded will be welcomed as 'sons of the living God.' This signifies a radical shift where Gentiles, who were previously seen as outsiders, are now embraced by God. It emphasizes that God's love and mercy extend beyond ethnic and national boundaries, inviting all who believe to be part of His family. This verse highlights the transformative power of God's grace, showing that identity and belonging are not based on heritage but on faith in Him. It reassures believers that regardless of their past, they can find acceptance and a new identity in Christ, becoming children of God. Explore related inclusivity.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Romans 9:26 to your life

This verse encourages us to embrace our identity as children of God, regardless of our past. It reminds us that God's love is inclusive, inviting everyone to belong. We should extend this grace to others, welcoming those who feel excluded or marginalized.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 9:26 mean?

Romans 9:26 means that those who were once considered outsiders or not part of God's people will be welcomed as His children. It highlights God's grace and the inclusion of all who believe, regardless of their background.

What is the significance of 'sons of the living God' in Romans 9:26?

The phrase 'sons of the living God' signifies a new identity and belonging for those who were previously excluded. It emphasizes that through faith, anyone can become part of God's family.

How does Romans 9:26 relate to God's grace?

Romans 9:26 illustrates God's grace by showing that His love extends beyond ethnic and national boundaries. It reassures believers that they can find acceptance and a new identity in Christ, regardless of their past.

What does 'You are not my people' refer to in Romans 9:26?

'You are not my people' refers to the Israelites' rejection of God. This phrase sets the context for the promise that those once excluded will be called 'sons of the living God,' highlighting God's 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.

Premium

Unlock the full Romans summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Romans — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 16 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Romans summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.

← Verse 25 Verse 27 →