Romans 11:5
Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 12
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 #:
5 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
νῦν
this present
G3568
νῦν
this present
Strong's:
G3568
Word #:
6 of 12
"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate
κατ'
according
G2596
κατ'
according
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
9 of 12
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
ἐκλογὴν
to the election
G1589
ἐκλογὴν
to the election
Strong's:
G1589
Word #:
10 of 12
(divine) selection (abstractly or concretely)
Cross References
Romans 9:27Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved:Romans 9:11(For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)Romans 11:28As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes.
Historical 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.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the doctrine of election by grace alone provide both humility and assurance regarding salvation?
- What is the difference between a remnant theology and a belief that the church has replaced Israel entirely?
- How does recognizing that you are part of a 'remnant' affect your sense of responsibility and mission?
Related Resources
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Analysis & 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.