Romans 9:31

“But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.”

Context:To fully understand Romans 9:31, it’s important to consider the context of the entire chapter of Romans 9. In this chapter, the Apostle Paul discusses God’s sovereign choice and the relationship between Israel and the Gentiles. He addresses the issue of God’s chosen people, the Jews, and how their pursuit of righteousness through the law did not lead to salvation.

Israel’s pursuit of righteousness:The verse begins by referring to Israel, the chosen people of God who had received the law. They diligently followed the law and sought righteousness through it. The law, given to Israel through Moses, was a divine instruction to guide them in righteous living and reveal their need for a Savior.

Not attaining righteousness:Despite their zealous adherence to the law, Israel failed to attain righteousness. The verse suggests that their reliance on the law as a means of salvation was insufficient. Merely following the law outwardly did not lead them to the righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus Christ.

Righteousness through faith:Paul’s message throughout the book of Romans emphasizes that righteousness is attained through faith in Jesus Christ, not through adherence to the law. In Romans 9:30-32, he contrasts the righteousness that comes by faith with the righteousness sought through works of the law. He explains that the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness through the law, obtained righteousness because they pursued it by faith, while Israel, who pursued it through the law, did not attain it.

The importance of faith:This verse highlights the importance of faith in receiving righteousness. It teaches us that no one can earn salvation or righteousness by their own efforts. It is a gift of God received through faith in Jesus Christ. The law serves as a guide to show us our need for a Savior, but it cannot provide salvation in and of itself.

Application:Romans 9:31 challenges us to examine our own hearts and motivations. Are we relying on our own efforts and good works to obtain righteousness, or are we trusting in the finished work of Jesus Christ? It reminds us that salvation is by grace through faith alone and encourages us to place our trust in Christ rather than in our own self-righteousness.

• In conclusion, Romans 9:31 highlights the contrast between Israel’s pursuit of righteousness through the law and the righteousness obtained through faith in Jesus Christ. It serves as a reminder that true righteousness and salvation are received as a gift through faith, not through human effort.