So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.

ROMANS 9:16KJV
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Romans 9:16 (KJV)

What does Romans 9:16 mean?

Romans 9:16 teaches that receiving mercy from God does not depend on a person’s desire or effort, but on God’s own decision to show mercy. The verse emphasizes that human willpower or striving cannot earn God’s compassion; it is God who freely gives it.

Paul is writing to believers in Rome, explaining why some people receive God’s mercy and others do not. In the larger context, Paul is addressing questions about God’s choices regarding Israel and the Gentiles, highlighting that God’s mercy is not something humans can control or achieve by their own actions.

The Greek behind Romans 9:16

  • ἐλεέω (eleéō, "mercy"): The Greek word used here means to show compassion or pity. Paul’s use of this word underlines that mercy is an act of God’s kindness, not a reward for human effort.
  • θέλω (thelō, "willeth"): This word refers to wanting or desiring something. Paul points out that even strong desire is not what brings about God’s mercy.
  • τρέχω (trechō, "runneth"): This word means to run, often used as a picture of striving or working hard. Paul uses it to show that even the most determined effort cannot secure God’s mercy.

Why Romans 9:16 matters

  • Romans 9:16 clears up the misunderstanding that God’s mercy can be earned by wanting it enough or by working hard for it.
  • The verse highlights God’s freedom and sovereignty in giving mercy, which is a key theme in Paul’s discussion about God’s relationship with Israel and all people.
  • This verse helps readers see that God’s compassion is not a transaction or a reward, but a gift given according to God’s own purpose and character.

Where else these words appear

“runneth” Greek G5143 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 27:48 And straightway one of them ran, and took a spunge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink.
  • Luke 24:12 Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.
  • Galatians 2:2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.

“mercy” Greek G1653 · used in 28 verses

  • Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
  • Mark 10:48 And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.
  • Romans 11:32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.

“So” Greek G686 · used in 51 verses

  • Matthew 7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
  • Acts 8:22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.

“nor” Greek G3761 · used in 125 verses

  • Matthew 5:15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
  • Luke 11:33 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light.
  • Romans 11:21 For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.