King James Version
Romans 9:31 in the King James Version says “But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.” — study this verse from Romans chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.”
Romans 9:31 · KJV
And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha.
What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.
But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.
Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone ;
As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. ashamed: or confounded
KJV Study — Public Domain
“Israel”
G2474israel (i.e., jisrael), the adopted name of jacob, including his descendants (literally or figuratively)
“which followed”
G1377compare the base of g1169 and g1249); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute
“after the law”
G3551law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat
“of righteousness”
G1343equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
“to”
G1519to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
“after the law”
G3551law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat
“of righteousness”
G1343equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
“attained”
G5348to be beforehand, i.e., anticipate or precede; by extension, to have arrived at
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.
Romans 9:31 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Romans 9:31 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge