Romans 11:20 Meaning and Explanation
“Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul concedes the point but reframes it: the branches fell through unbelief and the Gentiles stand through faith, so they should hold reverence rather than pride.
What Does Romans 11:20 Mean?
Paul grants the bare fact while overturning its proud conclusion. Yes, branches were broken off, but the cause was unbelief, and the Gentiles stand only by faith, not by any merit of their own.
The lesson is reverence rather than arrogance. To stand by faith is to depend entirely on God, which leaves no room for looking down on others. Be not highminded, but fear calls the reader to a humble, watchful trust, mindful that the same grace that received them must also keep them.
Romans 11:20 in the Original Language
apistia (ἀπιστία), 'unbelief' -- a failure to trust, the lack of the faith by which one stands.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 11:20
What does Romans 11:20 mean?
Paul concedes the point but reframes it: the branches fell through unbelief and the Gentiles stand through faith, so they should hold reverence rather than pride.