New Testament
Romans 9:30
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
What shall we say then? That Gentiles who were not pursuing righteousness obtained righteousness — the righteousness that comes by faith.
Compare translations
What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.
What Romans 9:30 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 9:30, Paul highlights a surprising truth: Gentiles, who were not actively seeking righteousness, have found it through faith. This contrasts with the Jewish people, who pursued righteousness through the law but often missed the true essence of faith in Christ. The verse emphasizes that righteousness is not achieved by human effort or adherence to the law, but is a gift received through faith. This reflects God's grace, showing that anyone, regardless of their background, can attain righteousness by believing in Jesus. It challenges the notion that only those who follow strict religious practices can be justified before God. Instead, it opens the door for all people to enter into a right relationship with Him through faith, highlighting the inclusivity of the Gospel.
How to apply Romans 9:30 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize that righteousness is accessible to everyone, regardless of their past or efforts. It reminds us to focus on faith in Christ rather than our own works. We should share this message of grace with others, inviting them to experience the freedom and acceptance found in faith.
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 9:30
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 9:30
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 9:30 mean?
Romans 9:30 means that Gentiles, who were not actively seeking righteousness, have received it through faith in Jesus. This contrasts with the Jewish people, who pursued righteousness through the law but often missed the true essence of faith.
What is the meaning of righteousness in Romans 9:30?
In Romans 9:30, righteousness refers to being in a right relationship with God, which is obtained not through human effort or the law, but through faith in Jesus Christ.
How does Romans 9:30 relate to faith?
Romans 9:30 emphasizes that faith is the means by which righteousness is obtained, showing that it is not about following the law but believing in Jesus.
What does Romans 9:30 teach about grace?
Romans 9:30 teaches that grace allows anyone, regardless of their background or past efforts, to attain righteousness through faith in Christ.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.