Romans 9:10

And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac;

Romans 9:10 (KJV)

Context

Romans 9:10 continues Paul’s argument about God’s sovereign election. In the preceding verse, Paul cited Isaac and Ishmael to show that God’s choice did not rest on natural descent. Now he adds a second, more striking example: Rebecca, the wife of Isaac. The phrase “not only this” ties the verse to that earlier example, showing that divine choice is not an isolated case but a consistent pattern in God’s dealings with the patriarchs.

Paul writes to believers in Rome, many of them Jewish, explaining God’s plan of salvation for both Jews and Gentiles. In Romans 9, he addresses why many Israelites had not accepted Jesus as the Messiah. His answer points to God’s sovereign purposes in election, which rest not on human merit or ancestry but on God’s own will and mercy.

Meaning

The verse emphasizes that Rebecca conceived twins by one man, Isaac, “our father Isaac.” Both children shared the same father, mother, and conception. This detail eliminates any natural or human explanation for the distinction that follows in verse 11. There was no difference in parentage, circumstances, or works that could account for God’s choice. The Greek text stresses that Rebecca conceived from one man, and early translations such as the Vulgate and Wycliffe’s version clarify this same point.

Paul’s focus is on God’s purpose in election, which is “not of works, but of him that calleth” (Romans 9:11). The example of Jacob and Esau illustrates that God’s sovereign choice operates even within the covenant family. Before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad, God had already chosen Jacob to carry the covenant promises. This choice was not based on their personal qualities or actions but solely on God’s sovereign will.

Biblical connections

The verse sets up the oracle given to Rebecca in the next verse: “the elder shall serve the younger” (Romans 9:12). This points back to the Genesis account of Jacob and Esau, where God’s purpose was revealed before their birth. Paul uses this example to show that God’s election is not conditioned on human effort or ancestry. The connection to the broader teaching of Romans is clear: salvation and God’s blessings depend not on human works but on God’s mercy and grace, received through faith in Christ.

Application

Romans 9:10 reminds us of God’s sovereignty in choosing His people. It challenges us to recognize that our salvation is not based on our own efforts but on God’s gracious choice. This truth should humble us, for we bring nothing to God but our need. It also encourages believers to trust in God’s wisdom and purpose, even when His choices seem contrary to our expectations. When we face hard-to-explain circumstances, we can rest in the assurance that God’s purposes stand regardless of human conditions.

Reflection

God’s election is a profound mystery, yet it is also a source of comfort. If salvation depended on our merit, none of us could be saved. But because it rests on God’s mercy, there is hope for all who call on Him. Let this verse lead you to praise God for His gracious choice and to rely on His grace rather than your own works for salvation.