What does Romans 9:30-33 teach about the pursuit of righteousness?

Romans 9:30-33 is a profound passage that delves into the nature of righteousness and how it is pursued by different groups of people. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, addresses a critical issue: the contrast between the Gentiles who attained righteousness and the Israelites who pursued it but did not succeed. This passage is not merely a historical commentary but a theological exposition that has deep implications for understanding faith, grace, and the righteousness of God.

Paul writes:

"What shall we say, then? That the Gentiles who did not pursue righteousness have attained it, that is, a righteousness that is by faith; but that Israel who pursued a law that would lead to righteousness did not succeed in reaching that law. Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone, as it is written, 'Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.'" (Romans 9:30-33, ESV)

To understand this passage, it is important to explore the context and the underlying principles Paul is addressing.

The Righteousness by Faith

Paul begins by making a startling observation: the Gentiles, who did not actively pursue righteousness, have attained it. This righteousness is not based on their works or adherence to the Mosaic Law but is by faith. This idea of righteousness by faith is a central theme in Paul’s writings and is rooted in the Old Testament. For instance, Genesis 15:6 says, "And he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness." Here, Abraham's faith is credited as righteousness, establishing a precedent that Paul elaborates on in his epistles.

In Romans 3:22, Paul states, "This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe." This righteousness is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ, not through human effort or adherence to the law. Faith, in this context, is not merely intellectual assent but a deep trust and reliance on Jesus Christ for salvation.

The Failure of Israel

In contrast to the Gentiles, Israel pursued a law that would lead to righteousness but did not succeed. Paul explains that the reason for their failure is that they pursued it not by faith but as if it were based on works. This pursuit of righteousness through the law is a significant theme in the Old Testament and Jewish tradition. The Israelites believed that adherence to the Mosaic Law would lead to righteousness and favor with God.

However, Paul argues that this approach is fundamentally flawed. In Galatians 2:16, he writes, "Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ." The law, while holy and good, was never intended to be the means by which people attain righteousness. Instead, it was meant to reveal sin and point to the need for a Savior (Romans 7:7-12).

The Stumbling Stone

Paul then introduces the metaphor of the stumbling stone, quoting Isaiah 28:16 and Isaiah 8:14. He identifies this stone as Jesus Christ, who is both a foundation and a stumbling block. For those who believe in Him, Jesus is the cornerstone, the foundation of their faith and righteousness. However, for those who reject Him, He becomes a stumbling stone, a rock of offense.

This imagery is powerful. It suggests that Jesus Christ is the decisive point of division. Those who seek righteousness through faith in Him will not be put to shame, but those who rely on their own works and reject Him will stumble. This idea is echoed in 1 Peter 2:6-8, where Peter also refers to Jesus as the cornerstone and the stumbling stone.

The Implications for Pursuing Righteousness

Romans 9:30-33 teaches us several important lessons about the pursuit of righteousness:

1. Righteousness is by Faith, Not Works: The primary lesson is that righteousness cannot be achieved through human effort or adherence to the law. It is a gift from God, received by faith in Jesus Christ. This principle is foundational to the gospel and is emphasized throughout the New Testament.

2. Faith is Essential: The Gentiles attained righteousness because they approached God with faith, while the Israelites failed because they relied on their own works. Faith is not just belief but a trust and reliance on Jesus Christ for salvation.

3. Jesus as the Cornerstone and Stumbling Stone: Jesus Christ is the central figure in the pursuit of righteousness. He is the cornerstone for those who believe, providing a secure foundation for their faith. However, He is also a stumbling stone for those who reject Him, highlighting the importance of accepting Him as Lord and Savior.

4. The Inclusivity of the Gospel: The fact that Gentiles, who were not originally part of God's chosen people, attained righteousness by faith, underscores the inclusivity of the gospel. Salvation is available to all who believe, regardless of their background or previous religious experience.

5. The Danger of Legalism: The Israelites' failure serves as a warning against legalism—the belief that righteousness can be achieved through strict adherence to religious laws and rituals. Legalism leads to self-righteousness and ultimately to stumbling over the true path to righteousness, which is faith in Christ.

Application for Today

For contemporary Christians, Romans 9:30-33 offers a timeless message. It challenges us to examine the basis of our righteousness. Are we relying on our own efforts, good works, or adherence to religious practices? Or are we placing our faith wholly in Jesus Christ?

Moreover, this passage calls us to embrace the inclusivity of the gospel. Just as the Gentiles were welcomed into God's family through faith, we are called to extend this message of grace and faith to all people, regardless of their background or past.

Finally, it reminds us of the centrality of Jesus Christ in our faith. He is the cornerstone of our lives, the foundation upon which we build our faith and righteousness. Our relationship with Him is the key to attaining the righteousness that God desires for us.

In conclusion, Romans 9:30-33 teaches that the pursuit of righteousness is not about human effort or adherence to the law but about faith in Jesus Christ. It underscores the importance of faith, the centrality of Christ, and the inclusivity of the gospel. As we reflect on this passage, let us be reminded to place our trust wholly in Jesus and to share this message of grace and faith with others.