Romans 9:33
As it is written, Beholde, I lay in Sion a stumbling stone, and rocke of offence: and whosoeuer beleeueth on him, shall not be ashamed. Romans 9:33 (KJV)
This verse is found in the ninth chapter of the book of Romans, a letter written by the apostle Paul to the believers in Rome. In this chapter Paul addresses the sovereignty of God in choosing His people and the inclusion of both Jews and Gentiles in God’s redemptive plan.
In verse 33 Paul quotes from two Old Testament passages, combining them to emphasize a powerful message. The first part comes from Isaiah 8:14: “He shall be a sanctuary; but for a stone which causeeth men to stumble, and a rock of offense to both the house of Judah and the house of Israel.” The second part is from Isaiah 28:16: “Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not be ashamed.”
Let’s break down the verse for a deeper understanding. “As it is written” signals that Paul is quoting Scripture, specifically the prophetic words of Isaiah. “Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence” shows that God intended the Messiah to be a foundation for some and a stumbling block for others; the image of a stone conveys both stability and the potential to cause people to fall when they reject Him. “Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed” emphasizes that those who place their trust in Christ will not be put to shame, but will receive the promise of salvation and a secure relationship with God.
In the broader context of Romans 9, Paul discusses the role of faith and God’s sovereign choice in salvation. He explains that mere descent from Abraham does not guarantee salvation; it is faith in Jesus Christ that makes a person part of God’s chosen people. Those who stumble over Christ by refusing to believe miss the benefits of salvation, while those who trust in Him are saved and experience a deep, meaningful relationship with God.
Overall Romans 9:33 highlights the importance of faith in Jesus Christ and the consequences of either accepting or rejecting Him. It underscores Jesus as the sure foundation and cornerstone of salvation and reassures believers that they will not be put to shame when they believe.
