Romans 10:19 Meaning and Explanation
“But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul asks whether Israel failed to understand, citing Moses' warning that God would stir them through other nations.
What Does Romans 10:19 Mean?
Paul raises a second possible excuse: perhaps the people did not understand. Again he answers from their own Scriptures, beginning with Moses. Long ago God foretold that He would stir His people to jealousy by turning to those who were 'no people,' a nation they thought foolish. The blessing reaching outsiders was not an accident but something declared from the start.
God's purposes are larger than any single people's expectations. Even the turning of grace toward the nations was woven into His ancient word, meant in part to awaken longing in those who had grown complacent. The verse reminds us that God can use the faith of unlikely others to provoke us, lovingly, toward Himself. What looks like surprise to us was foreseen by Him, and aimed at drawing all hearts home.
Romans 10:19 in the Original Language
parazeloo (παραζηλόω), 'provoke to jealousy' -- to stir to jealousy, here to awaken longing by another's blessing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 10:19
What does Romans 10:19 mean?
Paul asks whether Israel failed to understand, citing Moses' warning that God would stir them through other nations.