Romans 9:32
Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;
Romans 9:32 (KJV)
Context
In Romans 9, the Apostle Paul addresses Israel’s unbelief and God’s sovereign choice. He explains that not all who are physically descended from Israel are the true Israel of God. Righteousness and salvation do not come by human effort or by works of the law, but through faith in Jesus Christ.
Meaning
The verse opens with the question, “Wherefore?” or “Why?” Paul refers to the fact that the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness by observing the law, attained righteousness by faith in Christ. Israel, however, pursued righteousness by works of the law and failed to obtain it. The contrast is between seeking righteousness by faith and seeking it through adherence to the law.
The verse states that Israel stumbled because they sought righteousness “not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law.” The Jews relied on their obedience to the law, thinking their efforts could earn God’s favor. Yet righteousness is not achieved by human works but is received through faith in Jesus Christ. Faith justifies and saves a person, not one’s ability to fulfill the law’s requirements. Faith and the merits of works are altogether contrary to each other; trust in works abolishes faith, without which no salvation can be expected.
The verse concludes, “For they stumbled at that stumblingstone.” The stumblingstone is Jesus Christ, whom the Jews stumbled over because they did not recognize Him as the long-awaited Messiah. Instead of accepting Him by faith, they rejected Him, clinging to their own understanding of righteousness through the law. In their self-reliance, they missed the grace and salvation offered through Jesus. Their stumbling was not due to God’s rejection or foreordination, but because of their unbelief in Christ. They rejected Christ and His righteousness, seeking to establish their own.
Biblical connections
Christ as the stone of stumbling and rock of offense was foretold in Isaiah 8:14. The law demands perfect compliance, and both Jews and Gentiles failed to render such obedience, so justification cannot come by the law. The cause of Israel’s failure was unbelief in a crucified Christ.
Application
Romans 9:32 emphasizes the importance of faith in obtaining righteousness and salvation. Relying on one’s own works and efforts to earn favor with God leads to stumbling and missing the true path to salvation, which is through faith in Jesus Christ. Salvation is a gift of God’s grace received by faith, not something achieved by human merit.
Reflection
Consider whether you are seeking righteousness by faith or by your own efforts. Trust in Christ alone, who is the cornerstone, and rest in His finished work rather than your own.
