Romans 9:30 Meaning and Explanation
“What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Gentiles, not pursuing righteousness, received it through faith.
What Does Romans 9:30 Mean?
Paul draws together what the chapter has shown with a striking summary. The Gentiles, who were not even chasing righteousness, have attained it, the righteousness that comes by faith. They reached the goal they were not seeking, because the path to it was trust in God rather than achievement. Grace overtook them where effort never could.
Here the heart of the gospel shines plainly. Righteousness with God is received, not earned, and it comes the moment one believes. The Gentiles stumbled into blessing by faith while many who strove hard missed it, because the door was never opened by works. For every reader weary of trying to be good enough, this is liberating news: the righteousness of God is held out to faith, and faith lays hold of what striving never can.
Romans 9:30 in the Original Language
dikaiosyne (δικαιοσύνη), 'righteousness' -- right standing with God, here received through faith.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 9:30
What does Romans 9:30 mean?
The Gentiles, not pursuing righteousness, received it through faith.