Romans 10:20

But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.

Romans 10:20 (KJV)

Context

The book of Romans was written by the Apostle Paul as a letter to the believers in Rome. In this section of Romans (chapters 9-11), Paul addresses Israel’s rejection of Jesus as the Messiah and the inclusion of the Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation. In Romans 10:20, Paul quotes the prophet Isaiah, specifically Isaiah 65:1, to show that the prophet spoke boldly and plainly about God being found by those who were not seeking Him—a direct reference to the Gentiles. By referencing Isaiah, Paul emphasizes the continuity of God’s plan and His faithfulness to both Jews and Gentiles.

Meaning

The verse begins by noting that “Esaias is very bold.” This highlights the courageous nature of Isaiah’s proclamation. Throughout the book of Isaiah, the prophet fearlessly declared God’s word and warned Israel about their disobedience and the consequences that would follow. Here, Paul points to Isaiah’s boldness to show that the inclusion of the Gentiles was not a hidden or recent idea but a truth clearly revealed through the prophet.

The verse continues, “I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.” Paul applies these words to the Gentiles, who did not actively seek after God or ask for His revelation, yet God chose to reveal Himself to them and extend His salvation. This emphasizes the unexpected and undeserved nature of God’s grace. It also highlights God’s sovereignty in salvation: He takes the initiative to reveal Himself to people, even when they are not seeking Him. Salvation is not based on human effort or merit but is a result of God’s grace and mercy.

Biblical connections

Paul’s quotation from Isaiah 65:1 serves to show that even the prophets anticipated the Gentiles’ acceptance. The immediate context in Romans 10 contrasts righteousness by faith with righteousness by the law. Israel, who sought righteousness by works, did not attain it, while the Gentiles, who did not seek, were found. This connection underscores the principle that God’s salvation is extended to the undeserving, and it warns against presumption based on religious effort.

Application

• Humility and Gratitude: This verse should remind us of our own salvation and the grace of God extended to us. We should humbly recognize that our salvation is not due to our own efforts but is a result of God’s initiative and mercy. It should lead us to express gratitude to God for His unmerited favour.

• Outreach to Others: This verse also challenges us to share the good news of salvation with those who may not be actively seeking God. We should be bold in proclaiming the Gospel, knowing that God can manifest Himself to people in unexpected ways.

• Trusting God’s Plan: Just as God worked in unexpected ways in the past, we can trust that He is working in the present and will continue to fulfil His purposes. We can have confidence in God’s sovereignty and His faithfulness to His promises.

Reflection

This passage calls believers to recognize the grace of God in their own salvation and to be bold in proclaiming the gospel to all, regardless of their background. It encourages humility, as salvation is not based on human seeking but on God’s sovereign mercy. As we consider this verse, we are reminded that God’s ways are not our ways, and His mercy reaches those we might least expect.