Romans 9:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 9:16
16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.
Chapter Context
Romans 9 is a theological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, worship, truth. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 9:16
16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.
Analysis
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.
Historical 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
- How does recognizing the will's bondage to sin (6:16-20) support Paul's argument that it's 'not of him that willeth'?
- If salvation doesn't depend on human willing or running, what role do our choices and efforts play?
- How does this verse encourage believers struggling with assurance (if it depends on God, not our performance)?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- Grace: Ephesians 2:8
- References God: Romans 9:11, Philippians 2:13
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 65:1, Luke 10:21, John 3:8, James 1:18