Romans 11:19 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul anticipates a proud objection: that the natural branches were removed precisely to make room for the grafted ones.
What Does Romans 11:19 Mean?
Paul gives voice to the very boast he has just warned against. A Gentile believer might reason that the breaking off of Israelite branches was simply a means to his own inclusion, as if their loss existed for his gain.
By stating the objection plainly, Paul prepares to dismantle it in the verses that follow. The temptation to read God's mercy as a sign of one's own superiority is subtle and old. Naming it openly is the first step toward the humility Paul is urging upon every reader.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 11:19
What does Romans 11:19 mean?
Paul anticipates a proud objection: that the natural branches were removed precisely to make room for the grafted ones.