New Testament
Romans 9:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
'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.'
Compare translations
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.
What Romans 9:26 means
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.
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
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 9:26
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 9:26
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 9:26 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.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.