Romans 9:16

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Romans 9:16 KJV

So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.

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Romans 9:16 Bible Commentary

Bible Commentary on Romans 9:16

Verse: "So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy." (Romans 9:16)

Introduction

Romans 9:16 stands as a crucial verse in the Apostle Paul's exploration of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Here, Paul articulates the essential truth that salvation is ultimately the work of God’s mercy rather than human will or effort.

Contextual Analysis

This verse is nestled within Paul's discussion in Romans 9 where he wrestles with the nation of Israel’s place in God’s redemptive plan. The Apostle expresses his sorrow over Israel's unbelief and has just mentioned the purpose of God in election. This verse succinctly highlights God’s sovereignty in salvation.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Insights

Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of divine mercy in salvation. He explains that this verse serves as a reminder that God's choice does not depend on human will or effort:

  • Divine Sovereignty: Henry asserts that God's will reigns supreme in the matter of salvation, and humans cannot attribute their salvation to their own decisions.
  • The Role of Mercy: He elaborates that God's mercy is the decisive factor; thus, those who are saved should see themselves as recipients of grace rather than creators of their fate.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes expands on the theological implications of this verse:

  • Rejection of Works-Based Salvation: Barnes articulates that this verse dismisses the notion of salvation through human efforts, indicating that it is God who ultimately decides to show mercy.
  • Human Will vs. Divine Purpose: Barnes highlights the contrast between human intentions and the purposes of God, reinforcing that worldly endeavors do not guarantee divine favor.
  • Assurance in God’s Mercy: He concludes by encouraging believers to rely fully on God’s grace, which frees them from the burdens of trying to earn salvation.

Adam Clarke's Reflections

Adam Clarke provides a nuanced exploration of the text, focusing on the implications it raises for understanding God’s attributes:

  • Understanding God's Mercy: Clarke emphasizes the richness of God’s mercy, noting that it is not arbitrary; rather, it functions within God's eternal purpose.
  • Human Agency: He acknowledges human will but firmly places it under the overarching sovereignty of God, arguing that true agency exists only within the boundaries set by divine will.
  • Encouragement for the Faithful: Clarke also notes that this understanding should lead Christians to a state of humility, recognizing their dependence on divine grace.

Theological Implications

The implications of Romans 9:16 are far-reaching for theology, particularly in areas concerning election, predestination, and grace:

  • Sovereignty of God: This verse reaffirms a foundational Christian belief in God's ultimate control over salvation, challenging believers to trust in His plans.
  • Grace as a Gift: It delineates salvation as a gift from God, counteracting the idea that it can be achieved through human merit.

Practical Applications

This understanding of Romans 9:16 has several practical applications for believers today:

  • Humility: Believers are called to approach God with humility, acknowledging that their standing before Him is solely by mercy.
  • Encouragement for Evangelism: The knowledge that salvation is a work of God should motivate believers to engage in evangelism with the confidence that it is God who saves.
  • Reliance on Prayer: Understanding that it is God who shows mercy can lead Christians to greater dependence on prayer for themselves and for those they wish to see come to faith.

Conclusion

Romans 9:16 encapsulates a profound truth about the nature of God’s grace and the reality of human dependence on divine mercy. This passage elucidates the heart of the Gospel—salvation is a work of God’s mercy, reminding believers, theologians, and students of the Scriptures that is not through their own exertion, but through God’s sovereign will that they come to faith.

Romans 9 (KJV) Verse Selection

Romans 9:1 Romans 9:2 Romans 9:3 Romans 9:4 Romans 9:5 Romans 9:6 Romans 9:7 Romans 9:8 Romans 9:9 Romans 9:10 Romans 9:11 Romans 9:12 Romans 9:13 Romans 9:14 Romans 9:15 Romans 9:16 Romans 9:17 Romans 9:18 Romans 9:19 Romans 9:20 Romans 9:21 Romans 9:22 Romans 9:23 Romans 9:24 Romans 9:25 Romans 9:26 Romans 9:27 Romans 9:28 Romans 9:29 Romans 9:30 Romans 9:31 Romans 9:32 Romans 9:33

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