Romans 11:30
For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 14
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
καὶ
G2532
καὶ
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θεῷ
God
G2316
θεῷ
God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
8 of 14
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
νῦν
now
G3568
νῦν
now
Strong's:
G3568
Word #:
9 of 14
"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate
ἠλεήθητε
have
G1653
ἠλεήθητε
have
Strong's:
G1653
Word #:
11 of 14
to compassionate (by word or deed, specially, by divine grace)
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Colossians 3:7In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.Romans 11:31Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.1 Corinthians 7:25Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.2 Corinthians 4:1Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
Historical Context
Gentiles were 'without God in the world' (Ephesians 2:12), idolaters, immoral, outside the covenant. Their disobedience was complete—yet God showed mercy. Paul draws a parallel: if God saved Gentiles (total outsiders), He will save Israel (covenant people). This is an argument from lesser to greater.
Questions for Reflection
- How does remembering your past disobedience and God's mercy cultivate humility toward Israel?
- What does this verse teach about God's pattern of showing mercy to the disobedient?
- How should Gentile believers' reception of mercy 'through Israel's unbelief' shape gratitude and prayer for Israel's salvation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For as ye in times past have not believed God—hōsper gar hymeis pote ēpeithēsate tō theō (ὥσπερ γὰρ ὑμεῖς ποτε ἠπειθήσατε τῷ θεῷ). Paul addresses Gentiles' past: you were disobedient (ēpeithēsate, ἠπειθήσατε), unbelieving, outside the covenant. Yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief—nyn de ēleēthēte tē toutōn apeitheia (νῦν δὲ ἠλεηθητε τῇ τούτων ἀπειθείᾳ). Gentile salvation came through (tē, instrumental dative) Israel's disobedience, which opened the door (v. 11).
Paul highlights the irony: Gentiles, who were disobedient pagans, now receive mercy (ēleēthēte, ἠλεηθητε) via Israel's unbelief. This should produce humility, not pride. If you obtained mercy through someone else's failure, boasting is absurd. The same God who showed you mercy despite your disobedience will show Israel mercy despite theirs. The pattern of divine mercy toward the disobedient applies to both groups.