Romans 9:27 Meaning and Explanation
“Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Isaiah declared that though Israel be countless as sand, only a remnant would be saved.
What Does Romans 9:27 Mean?
Alongside Hosea, Paul brings Isaiah (called Esaias here), who cried out concerning Israel. Though Israel's children be as numberless as the sand of the sea, only a remnant shall be saved. The prophet had long ago foreseen that not the whole nation but a faithful remnant would receive God's salvation, just as Paul observed at the chapter's start.
The word remnant carries both sorrow and hope. Sorrow, because so many do not come; hope, because a remnant is preserved, a living seed kept by God's mercy. God's promise never fails, yet it is fulfilled in those who believe, not in mere numbers. Throughout history God has kept for Himself a faithful few when many turned away. The remnant is small, but it is real, and it is enough to carry forward the purposes of God.
Romans 9:27 in the Original Language
hypoleimma (ὑπόλειμμα), 'remnant' -- a small portion left over, preserved by God's grace.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 9:27
What does Romans 9:27 mean?
Isaiah declared that though Israel be countless as sand, only a remnant would be saved.