But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal.

ROMANS 11:4KJV
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Romans 11:4 (KJV)

What does Romans 11:4 mean?

Romans 11:4 describes God’s response to Elijah, saying that He has kept for Himself seven thousand men who have not worshiped the idol Baal. This verse shows that even when it seems like everyone has turned away, God preserves a faithful group who remain true to Him.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Rome and refers back to the story of Elijah from the Old Testament, where Elijah felt alone in his faithfulness to God. Paul uses this example to reassure his readers that God always maintains a faithful remnant, even in times of widespread unfaithfulness.

The Greek behind Romans 11:4

  • The word for "reserved" (κατέλιπον, katelipon) means to leave behind or keep for oneself. Here, it emphasizes that God actively preserves a group of people for His own purposes, not just by chance.
  • The phrase "bowed the knee" (ἔκαμψαν γόνυ, ekampsan gony) is a physical image of worship or submission. In this context, it highlights the loyalty of those who refused to honor Baal, an idol, by not physically or spiritually submitting.
  • The word "Baal" (Βάαλ, Baal) refers to a false god worshiped in ancient times. Mentioning Baal makes clear that the issue was not just general unfaithfulness, but specifically turning to idol worship.

Why Romans 11:4 matters

  • Romans 11:4 clears up the idea that God’s people can be completely wiped out or abandoned; it emphasizes God’s ongoing faithfulness to preserve a remnant.
  • The verse connects Paul’s message to the Old Testament, showing continuity in how God works with His people across history.
  • It reassures readers that faithfulness to God is never unnoticed or forgotten, even when it feels like the majority have turned away.

Where else these words appear

“have” Greek G2578 · used in 4 verses

  • Romans 14:11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
  • Ephesians 3:14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
  • Philippians 2:10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

“knee” Greek G1119 · used in 12 verses

  • Mark 15:19 And they smote him on the head with a reed, and did spit upon him, and bowing their knees worshipped him.
  • Acts 7:60 And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
  • Romans 14:11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.

“reserved” Greek G2641 · used in 25 verses

  • Matthew 4:13 And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:
  • Luke 10:40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
  • Acts 24:27 But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound.

“myself” Greek G1683 · used in 37 verses

  • Matthew 8:9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
  • John 10:18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.
  • 1 Corinthians 4:4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord.