And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.

ROMANS 9:26KJV
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Romans 9:26 (KJV)

What does Romans 9:26 mean?

Romans 9:26 says that in the very place where people were once told, “You are not my people,” they will instead be called “the children of the living God.” This means that those who were once outsiders or rejected will be welcomed and recognized as belonging to God.

Paul is writing to believers in Rome, quoting from the Old Testament (specifically Hosea) to show that God’s acceptance is not limited by ancestry or past rejection. In the context, Paul is explaining how God’s mercy can reach even those who were previously considered outside His promises, emphasizing the surprising and generous nature of God’s inclusion.

The Greek behind Romans 9:26

  • ὑιοί (huioi, G5207): This word means “sons” or “children.” Paul uses it to stress a close, family-like relationship with God, not just a distant association.
  • θεοῦ ζῶντος (theou zōntos, G2316 and G2198): “Of the living God.” The phrase highlights that God is active and present, not an abstract or distant deity, making the relationship described here vibrant and real.
  • καλεσθήσονται (kalesthēsontai, G2564): “They shall be called.” This Greek verb often carries the sense of being officially named or recognized, showing a change in status from rejection to acceptance.

Why Romans 9:26 matters

  • Romans 9:26 clarifies that God’s family is not limited by ethnicity or background; even those once rejected can be fully included.
  • This verse connects Paul’s teaching to the Old Testament, showing continuity in God’s plan and faithfulness to His promises.
  • The verse helps explain the broader theme of Romans 9, where Paul discusses God’s freedom to show mercy and include unexpected people in His covenant.

Where else these words appear

“said” Greek G4483 · used in 26 verses

  • Matthew 1:22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,
  • Matthew 5:31 It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:
  • Matthew 22:31 But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying,

“where” Greek G3757 · used in 27 verses

  • Matthew 2:9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.
  • Luke 24:28 And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further.
  • Acts 25:10 Then said Paul, I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest.

“place” Greek G5117 · used in 88 verses

  • Matthew 12:43 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.
  • Luke 14:10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.
  • Acts 7:49 Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?

“there” Greek G1563 · used in 98 verses

  • Matthew 2:13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
  • Mark 6:5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them.
  • John 6:3 And Jesus went up into a mountain, and there he sat with his disciples.