King James Version

What Does Romans 11:5 Mean?

Romans 11:5 in the King James Version says “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.” — study this verse from Romans chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.”

Romans 11:5 · KJV

Grace

Context

3

Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life.

4

But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal.

5

Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.

6

And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

7

What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded blinded: or, hardened

Read Romans 11 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant—leimma (λεῖμμα) means a remainder or residue, used in the LXX for survivors of judgment. Paul draws a direct parallel: houtōs oun (οὕτως οὖν, "just so, therefore") connects Elijah's era to his own. The remnant exists kata eklogen charitos (κατ᾽ ἐκλογὴν χάριτος), according to the election of grace. The preposition kata indicates the standard or basis—grace-based election, not works or merit.

The word eklogen (ἐκλογήν, "election") appears throughout Romans 9-11 as the doctrine of divine choice. This remnant is not a human achievement but a divine gift. Paul identifies himself as part of this remnant (v. 1), along with thousands of other Jewish believers in Jerusalem (Acts 21:20). The remnant theology prevents both despair ("Israel has completely failed") and presumption ("ethnic descent guarantees salvation"). Grace alone elects; grace alone preserves.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The early church was overwhelmingly Jewish for its first decade. Even in Paul's era (50s-60s AD), tens of thousands of Jews believed in Jesus as Messiah. The remnant was substantial, though a minority within Judaism. This challenges later Christian assumptions that first-century Jews en masse rejected Christ.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the doctrine of election by grace alone provide both humility and assurance regarding salvation?
  2. What is the difference between a remnant theology and a belief that the church has replaced Israel entirely?
  3. How does recognizing that you are part of a 'remnant' affect your sense of responsibility and mission?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
οὕτως1 of 12

“Even so”

G3779

in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)

οὖν2 of 12

“then”

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

καὶ3 of 12

“also”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐν4 of 12

“at”

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τῷ5 of 12
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

νῦν6 of 12

“this present”

G3568

"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate

καιρῷ7 of 12

“time”

G2540

an occasion, i.e., set or proper time

λεῖμμα8 of 12

“a remnant”

G3005

a remainder

κατ'9 of 12

“according”

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

ἐκλογὴν10 of 12

“to the election”

G1589

(divine) selection (abstractly or concretely)

χάριτος11 of 12

“of grace”

G5485

graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart

γέγονεν·12 of 12

“there is”

G1096

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Romans. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Romans 11:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Romans 11:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Romans 9:27Ephesians 1:5-6Romans 9:11Romans 11:6-7Romans 11:28

Test Your Knowledge

Romans 11 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRomans Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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