Romans 9:31

  1. Home
  2. KJV Bible
  3. Romans 9
  4. Romans 9:31

Old Testament

Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth 1 Samuel 2 Samuel 1 Kings 2 Kings 1 Chronicles 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Solomon Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi

New Testament

Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans 1 Corinthians 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1 Thessalonians 2 Thessalonians 1 Timothy 2 Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews James 1 Peter 2 Peter 1 John 2 John 3 John Jude Revelation

Chapter

Romans 1 Romans 2 Romans 3 Romans 4 Romans 5 Romans 6 Romans 7 Romans 8 Romans 9 Romans 10 Romans 11 Romans 12 Romans 13 Romans 14 Romans 15 Romans 16

Verse

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

Romans 9:31 KJV

But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.

Previous Verse
« Romans 9:30
Next Verse
Romans 9:32 »

Romans 9:31 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Romans 9:31

Romans 9:31 states, "But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness." This verse encapsulates a profound theological discussion regarding the pursuit of righteousness by Israel and the implications of the Law within the broader context of faith and grace.

Understanding the Context

To fully appreciate Romans 9:31, one must consider the surrounding passages in Romans chapters 9 through 11, where the Apostle Paul addresses God's sovereignty and the mystery of Israel's election and rejection. Paul is lamenting the spiritual condition of Israel, despite their zealousness in pursuing righteousness through the Law.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the irony in Israel's pursuit of righteousness through the Law. They "followed after" it, demonstrating a fervent desire to achieve righteousness by their own efforts. However, he notes that their failure to attain this righteousness lies in their misunderstanding of the purpose of the Law. The Law was never intended to be the means through which righteousness could be earned; rather, it was to lead them to Christ:

  • Righteousness through Faith: Henry points out that true righteousness comes through faith in Christ, not through the observance of the Law.
  • Self-Righteousness: The self-righteousness of Israel led them to overlook their need for grace and faith.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes provides a detailed analysis of the phrase "followed after the law of righteousness." He notes that Israel's earnest pursuit was indeed commendable, but it was misguided:

  • Misplaced Efforts: Barnes specifies that the law offered a certain type of righteousness, but one that was unattainable through human effort alone.
  • Legalism vs. Faith: He contrasts Israel's legalistic approach with the righteousness that comes from faith in Jesus Christ, highlighting that while the Law points to righteousness, it cannot provide it.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke elaborates on the nuances of Paul's argument by detailing the implications of "the law of righteousness." Clarke notes that this law refers to the standards of righteousness established by God, and Israel's endeavor to achieve it through their own works was ultimately futile:

  • Recognition of Human Limitation: Clarke underscores the necessity for individuals to recognize their inability to achieve righteousness on their own.
  • Promise of Christ: He points towards the fulfillment of the law in Christ, suggesting that only through Him can anyone attain true righteousness.

Theological Implications

Romans 9:31 serves as a critical reflection on the nature of salvation and the essential truth that righteousness is not attainable through human effort, but solely through divine grace. The passage challenges the prevailing assumptions of works-based righteousness that were common in the first-century Jewish context:

  • Faith as the Key: The significance of faith is paramount—true righteousness is reached through reliance on God's grace and the redemptive work of Christ.
  • Inclusivity of Salvation: This message of faith transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries, extending beyond Israel to all who believe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Romans 9:31 stands as a reminder of the profound truth that while Israel had a zealous pursuit of righteousness, their efforts were ultimately ineffectual when devoid of faith in God’s provision through Christ. This passage invites deeper reflection on the relationship between the Law, faith, and divine grace, urging believers to embrace the righteousness that comes through faith rather than works. Such an understanding is vital for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars as they seek to communicate the heart of the Gospel.

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

KJV Bible Books

KJV Bible Books and Chapters »