King James Version

What Does Romans 9:16 Mean?

Romans 9:16 in the King James Version says “So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.” — study this verse from Romans chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.”

Romans 9:16 · KJV

Context

14

What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid .

15

For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.

16

So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.

17

For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.

18

Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy—Paul draws the corollary: salvation depends neither on human willing (thelontos, θέλοντος) nor human effort (trechontos, τρέχοντος, literally 'running'), but solely on God's mercy (tou eleontos theou, τοῦ ἐλεῶντος θεοῦ). This excludes all synergism. The will is enslaved to sin (6:16-20) until God grants repentance (2 Timothy 2:25). Works cannot earn grace (11:6).

The athletic imagery ('running') echoes Psalm 147:10-11: 'He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.' Salvation is God's work from first to last—choosing, calling, justifying, glorifying (8:29-30). Human willing and running are results of God's mercy, not causes of it. We choose because he first chose; we run because he first gave life.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This verse became a Reformation rallying cry against Pelagian/semi-Pelagian views that made salvation depend on human cooperation. Luther cited it extensively in 'Bondage of the Will.' Salvation is of the Lord (Jonah 2:9)—grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does recognizing the will's bondage to sin (6:16-20) support Paul's argument that it's 'not of him that willeth'?
  2. If salvation doesn't depend on human willing or running, what role do our choices and efforts play?
  3. How does this verse encourage believers struggling with assurance (if it depends on God, not our performance)?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ἄρα1 of 12

“So”

G686

a particle denoting an inference more or less decisive (as follows)

οὖν2 of 12

“then”

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

οὐ3 of 12

“it is not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

τοῦ4 of 12
G3588

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

θέλοντος5 of 12

“of him that willeth”

G2309

to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

οὐδὲ6 of 12

“nor”

G3761

not however, i.e., neither, nor, not even

τοῦ7 of 12
G3588

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

τρέχοντος8 of 12

“of him that runneth”

G5143

which uses ????? <pronunciation strongs="drem'-o"/> (the base of g1408) as alternate in certain tenses; to run or walk hastily (literally or figurativ

ἀλλὰ9 of 12

“but”

G235

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

τοῦ10 of 12
G3588

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

ἐλεοῦντος11 of 12

“that sheweth mercy”

G1653

to compassionate (by word or deed, specially, by divine grace)

θεοῦ12 of 12

“of God”

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

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 9:16 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 9:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ephesians 2:8Matthew 11:25-261 Peter 2:9-10Ephesians 2:4-5Philippians 2:13Titus 3:3-5

Test Your Knowledge

Romans 9 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRomans Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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