Romans 9:33 Meaning and Explanation
“As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Scripture foretold a stone laid in Zion that some stumble over, but whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.
What Does Romans 9:33 Mean?
Paul closes the chapter with Isaiah's prophecy. God Himself lays in Zion a stone, one that becomes a stumblingstone and rock of offence to some, yet the bedrock of safety to others. The difference lies wholly in response: whosoever believes on Him shall not be ashamed. The same stone is ruin to the unbelieving and refuge to the trusting.
This is where the whole chapter has been leading, and where it leaves the reader. Christ is the appointed stone, and every person meets Him as either obstacle or foundation. The promise is wide open and full of hope: whoever believes on Him will never be put to shame, never disappointed in their trust. The invitation closes the argument tenderly, holding out to all who will believe a security that the proud, leaning on themselves, can never know.
Romans 9:33 in the Original Language
Sion (Σιών), 'Zion' -- the holy hill of Jerusalem, here the place where God lays His chosen stone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 9:33
What does Romans 9:33 mean?
Scripture foretold a stone laid in Zion that some stumble over, but whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.