Devine Scripture

Romans 9:1

What does Romans 9:1 mean?

A plain-English look at Romans 9:1 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Romans 9:1 means

Paul begins with the strongest assurances he can give. Speaking “in Christ,” he insists he is not exaggerating or crafting a rhetorical ploy. His own conscience, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, confirms his sincerity. He wants readers to know that the deep grief he is about to describe is real, not a debating tactic. The Holy Spirit bears witness to truth, and Paul aligns himself under that scrutiny. This solemn opening underlines the gravity of what follows: a painful reflection on Israel’s present unbelief. Before discussing God’s sovereign purposes, Paul displays a pastor’s heart—honest, accountable, and deeply burdened for his people.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience bearing witness with me in the Holy Spirit,

KJV

King James Version · 1611

I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience bearing witness with me in the Holy Spirit,

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

I say what is true in Christ, and not what is false, my mind giving witness with me in the Holy Spirit,

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Truth I say in Christ, I lie not, my conscience bearing testimony with me in the Holy Spirit,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

I speak the truth in Christ: I lie not, my conscience bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost:

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

I say [the] truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience bearing witness with me in [the] Holy Spirit,

Context

After celebrating unshakable assurance in chapter 8, Paul turns to the troubling question of Israel’s widespread rejection of Christ. Verse 1 opens the section with an oath-like affirmation of truthfulness. He prepares readers to receive difficult teaching about election and mercy by first establishing his genuine heart for Israel. The next verses unfold his sorrow (vv. 2–3) and list Israel’s privileges (vv. 4–5), creating the tension that will drive the argument: How can so privileged a nation largely miss the Messiah, and has God’s word failed?

v.1This passage

v.2that I have great sorrow and unceasing pain in my heart.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • 2 Corinthians 1:12

    For our glorying is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and sincerity of God, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we behaved ourselves in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.

  • 1 John 3:19

    Hereby shall we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our heart before him:

  • 2 Corinthians 11:10

    As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this glorying in the regions of Achaia.

  • Philippians 1:8

    For God is my witness, how I long after you all in the tender mercies of Christ Jesus.

  • 1 Timothy 5:21

    I charge thee in the sight of God, and Christ Jesus, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing by partiality.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:19

    Ye think all this time that we are excusing ourselves unto you. In the sight of God speak we in Christ. But all things, beloved, are for your edifying.

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