For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.

ROMANS 14:11KJV
Know the Bible

Romans 14:11 (KJV)

What does Romans 14:11 mean?

Romans 14:11 says that God has declared every person will one day acknowledge Him—everyone will bow before God and openly admit His authority. This statement is a reminder that all people, regardless of background, are ultimately accountable to God.

Paul is writing to Christians in Rome, quoting from the Old Testament to emphasize that judgment belongs to God alone. In the context of disagreements among believers, Paul uses this verse to show that each person will answer to God, so no one should judge another’s faith or practices in matters of conscience.

The Greek behind Romans 14:11

  • "ἐξομολογήσεται" (exomologēsetai, "shall confess"): This Greek word means more than just admitting something; it often carries the sense of openly acknowledging or praising. Here, it suggests that every tongue will not only admit God’s authority but do so willingly and publicly.
  • "κύριος" (kyrios, "Lord"): This word is used for God’s name and authority. In this verse, it highlights that the one speaking is the Lord Himself, underscoring the seriousness and certainty of the statement.
  • "κάμψει" (kampsei, "shall bow"): This word describes the physical act of bending the knee, a sign of submission or reverence. It emphasizes that recognition of God’s authority will be both inward and outward.

Why Romans 14:11 matters

  • Romans 14:11 clarifies that ultimate judgment and recognition belong to God, not to other people, which helps settle disputes about personal convictions in the church.
  • This verse reminds readers that everyone, regardless of their differences, stands equal before God and will one day acknowledge Him.
  • By quoting Scripture, Paul grounds his argument in God’s own words, reinforcing that respecting others’ consciences is not just a suggestion but rooted in God’s authority.

Where else these words appear

“bow” Greek G2578 · used in 4 verses

  • Romans 11:4 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.
  • 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;

“confess” Greek G1843 · used in 11 verses

  • Matthew 3:6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.
  • Luke 10:21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.
  • Romans 15:9 And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name.

“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 11:4 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.

“tongue” Greek G1100 · used in 47 verses

  • Mark 7:33 And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue;
  • 1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.