New Testament
Romans 9:30
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Romans 9:30, Paul highlights a surprising truth: Gentiles, who were not actively seeking righteousness, have found it through faith.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
What shall we say then? That Gentiles who were not pursuing righteousness obtained righteousness — the righteousness that comes by faith.
What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.
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.
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