Romans 9:24

Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?

Romans 9:24 (KJV)

Context

This verse concludes Paul’s argument in Romans 9 about God’s sovereign calling. He has just quoted Hosea and Isaiah to show that God’s mercy extends beyond ethnic Israel. Now he applies that truth directly: the called ones include “us,” believers whom God has summoned from both Jews and Gentiles.

Meaning

The phrase “whom he hath called” emphasizes that salvation begins with God’s initiative. It is not based on human merit, ancestry, or religious heritage, but on God’s sovereign will and mercy. Paul’s point is that God’s call is individual, not merely national: He chooses people out of every nation to belong to Him.

The words “not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles” highlight the inclusive scope of that call. In the Old Testament, God’s covenant was primarily with Israel, but through Christ the promise expands to include all who believe. This calling is an act of grace, so believers have no ground for pride; their standing before God is entirely due to His mercy.

Biblical connections

Paul develops this same truth elsewhere. In Ephesians 2:11-22 he explains that Christ broke down the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles, making one new humanity. In Galatians 3:28 he declares that in Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, for all are one in Him. These passages reinforce the unity of believers from every background, formed into one body by God’s call.

Application

This truth should lead believers to humility and gratitude. Since God’s call is not earned, no one can boast in their own heritage or achievements. It also encourages the church to embrace its diversity as a reflection of God’s inclusive purpose. Believers from every nation, culture, and ethnicity are united in Christ, and that unity is a witness to the world of God’s saving grace.

Reflection

Paul’s words also carry a warning against presumption. Israel’s unbelief shows that physical descent from Abraham does not guarantee salvation; what matters is responding to God’s call in faith. For Gentile believers, this is a reminder that they have been grafted into God’s promises by grace alone. The same call that saves is the call that shapes the church into a people from every tribe and tongue, to the praise of His glory.