Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:

ROMANS 11:20KJV
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Romans 11:20 (KJV)

What does Romans 11:20 mean?

Romans 11:20 explains that some people were separated from God because they did not believe, while others remain connected to God through faith. The verse warns those who stand by faith not to become proud, but instead to have a respectful fear.

Paul is writing to Gentile believers in Rome, explaining why some Israelites have been "broken off" from God's people. He points out that their loss was due to unbelief, and the Gentiles now stand by faith, not by their own merit. Paul cautions them against arrogance, reminding them to stay humble and aware of their dependence on God.

The Greek behind Romans 11:20

  • "Unbelief" (ἀπιστία, apistia): This word means a lack of trust or faith. Paul uses it to explain why some were "broken off"—not because of ethnicity or background, but because they did not trust in God.
  • "Standest" (ἕστηκας, hestēkas): This verb means to stand firm or remain. Paul uses it to show that the Gentile believers' position is secure only because of faith, not because of anything they have done.
  • "Highminded" (ὑψηλὰ φρόνει, hupsēla phronei): This phrase means to think highly of oneself or to be arrogant. Paul warns against this attitude, urging humility instead.

Why Romans 11:20 matters

  • Romans 11:20 clears up the idea that anyone's place with God is automatic or based on heritage; it is about faith, not background.
  • The verse emphasizes humility, warning believers not to look down on others or become self-satisfied because of their standing.
  • Romans 11:20 connects to Paul's larger argument in Romans 11, showing that both inclusion and exclusion from God's people are based on faith, and that anyone can fall if they lose that trust.

Where else these words appear

“Be” Greek G5309 · used in 2 verses

  • 1 Timothy 6:17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;

“off” Greek G1575 · used in 3 verses

  • Romans 11:17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;
  • Romans 11:19 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in.

“unbelief” Greek G570 · used in 12 verses

  • Matthew 13:58 And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.
  • Mark 9:24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.
  • Romans 11:23 And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again.

“Well” Greek G2573 · used in 36 verses

  • Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
  • Luke 20:39 Then certain of the scribes answering said, Master, thou hast well said.
  • Galatians 5:7 Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?