Romans 9:30

What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.

Romans 9:30 (KJV)

Context

In Romans 9, the apostle Paul addresses God’s sovereign choice in salvation and the place of Israel in His plan. He has explained that not all physical descendants of Abraham are children of the promise, and he now turns to a striking outcome of the gospel.

Meaning

Paul opens with a rhetorical question, “What shall we say then?” This phrase marks a turning point in his argument. He contrasts the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, with Israel, who pursued the law of righteousness. The Gentiles, though outside the covenant and the Law, have attained righteousness—not by their own effort, but by faith. The Greek phrase rendered “which is of faith” (ἐκ πίστεως) shows that this righteousness comes from faith, not from works or human merit.

Biblical connections

This verse sets up the contrast developed in Romans 9:31, where Israel, pursuing the law of righteousness, did not arrive at that law. The point is not that the Law was wrong, but that righteousness cannot be earned through it. The Old Covenant could not provide the perfect righteousness required for salvation; through the New Covenant in Christ, all who believe receive the gift of righteousness by faith.

Application

Romans 9:30 reminds us that salvation does not depend on our background, efforts, or religious heritage. It rests on God’s grace and our faith in Jesus Christ. This truth should encourage believers to rely on grace alone, to see all believers as equal before God, and to share the gospel freely with people from every nation.

Reflection

Paul’s words challenge any assumption that closeness to God comes through human achievement. The Gentiles, who were far off, received righteousness by faith. The same righteousness is offered to all who trust in Christ, regardless of their past or their religious pedigree.