What does Romans 9:31 mean?

Explanation

Romans 9:31 speaks of Israel's pursuit of a law-based righteousness and their failure to attain it.

In essence, the verse contrasts Israel's zealous, yet misguided, effort to achieve righteousness through their own adherence to the Law, with the righteousness that comes by faith.

Paul is pointing out that despite Israel diligently following the Law of Moses in an attempt to become righteous before God, they did not succeed in achieving the righteousness God requires.

The deeper meaning suggests that righteousness before God is not something that can be earned through human effort or legalistic adherence to rules, but is instead granted by God's grace to those who have faith.

Historical Context

This verse is set within the context of a larger argument that the Apostle Paul is making in the book of Romans, especially in chapters 9-11, about the status of Israel in God's redemptive plan.

At the time Paul was writing this letter, Christianity was emerging from its Jewish roots, and there was considerable tension regarding the place of the Jewish Law and ethnic Israel in the new covenant.

The majority of Jews of that era believed that righteousness and standing before God came from following the prescribed rituals and commandments set forth in the Torah.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse is pivotal in discussing the doctrine of justification by faith as opposed to justification by works.

From a Reformed perspective, it underscores the idea of sola fide, meaning faith alone is what justifies sinners before God. Catholic and Orthodox theologians also recognize the importance of faith for justification but tend to emphasize a synergy between faith and works.

Moreover, it raises questions about the role of God's election and His promises to Israel, suggesting that not all within ethnic Israel are part of the spiritual Israel who inherit the promises.

Practical Applications

From this verse, individuals can understand that striving to achieve righteousness through their own efforts is ultimately futile.

It encourages believers to place their trust in God's grace rather than their own religious achievements.

This application calls for humility and a reliance on faith in Christ as the means to be made right before God.

It also has implications for how Christians view other religions or any system that suggests righteousness can be attained through good deeds or self-effort.

Cross-References

• Romans 3:20: "Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin."
• Galatians 3:11: "But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith."
• Ephesians 2:8-9: "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."

Language Study

The key term in this verse is "righteousness" (Greek: δικαιοσύνη - dikaiosunē), which conveys the concept of being in a right relationship with God or being morally upright. Another significant term is "attained" (Greek: κατέλαβεν - katelaben), which means to seize or grasp hold of something.

This suggests that Israel has not "grasped" the righteousness it pursued.

Additionally, the phrase "the law of righteousness" indicates a system or path of living that was expected to produce righteousness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient religions and societies, including those contemporary to early Christianity, the idea of righteousness or favor with the gods often hinged on ritual observance and moral conduct.

The Jewish concept of following the Law parallels other ancient systems where fulfilling religious duties was linked to spiritual status.

Unlike these views, Paul presents a counter-cultural message that righteousness comes by faith, which was revolutionary for its time and set Christianity apart as distinct from other religions.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse itself does not have a direct scientific application, as it deals with theological concepts rather than empirical observations.

However, it contributes to discussions in the field of psychology regarding human behavior, such as the tendency of people to follow rules as a means to achieve a sense of righteousness or personal worth.

It may also be relevant in studies on moral development, where intrinsic values rather than extrinsic rule following are considered more meaningful.

Commentaries

Commentators offer varying insights on this verse.

For instance, John Stott in his book "The Message of Romans" emphasizes that the Jews misunderstood the purpose of the Law, seeing it as a pathway to righteousness rather than a means to recognize their sinfulness.

Douglas Moo in "The Epistle to the Romans" speaks of the sovereignty of God in bestowing righteousness on those who believe, highlighting Israel's national pursuit of a law that could not justify them.

N.T.

Wright, in his "Romans" commentary in "The New Interpreter’s Bible," explores the historical context of ethnic Israel's struggle to understand their role within the covenant and highlights the unexpected route to righteousness that comes through Christ.