Romans 1:17

KJV

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} therein {G1722}{G846} is {G601} the righteousness {G1343} of God {G2316} revealed {G601} from {G1537} faith {G4102} to {G1519} faith {G4102}: as {G2531} it is written {G1125},{G1161} The just {G1342} shall live {G2198} by {G1537} faith {G4102}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For in it is revealed how God makes people righteous in his sight; and from beginning to end it is through trust — as the Tanakh puts it, “But the person who is righteous will live his life by trust.”

Berean Standard Bible

For the gospel reveals the righteousness of God that comes by faith from start to finish, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

American Standard Version

For therein is revealed a righteousness of God from faith unto faith: as it is written, But the righteous shall live by faith.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 1:17 serves as the theological linchpin of Paul's letter, succinctly articulating the core message of the gospel: that God's saving righteousness is unveiled through faith, from its inception to its culmination, a truth powerfully affirmed by the Old Testament declaration that the righteous shall live by faith. This verse sets the stage for Paul's comprehensive exposition on justification by faith, contrasting divine grace with human effort and establishing the universal need for God's provision.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 1:17 immediately follows Paul's profound declaration in [Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Power of the Gospel") that he is "not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." Verse 17 then provides the crucial theological explanation for *why* the gospel possesses such transformative power. The conjunction "For" (Greek: *gar*) signals that this verse unpacks the mechanism by which the gospel brings about salvation, revealing the divine method for humanity's reconciliation with God. It transitions from the gospel's inherent power to its specific content—the revelation of God's righteousness—which is the means by which salvation is accomplished. This verse thus acts as a foundational thesis statement, introducing the central theme that Paul will meticulously develop throughout the subsequent chapters, particularly in [Romans 3](/romans/3 "Romans 3 - Justification by Faith") and [Romans 4](/romans/4 "Romans 4 - Abraham Justified by Faith").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote to a diverse Christian community in Rome, comprising both Jewish and Gentile believers. This community, though established, faced internal tensions and external pressures. Within Roman society, concepts of justice, law, and merit were paramount, often tied to civic duty, social standing, and adherence to established norms. Jewish thought, while rooted in covenant and divine law, also grappled with how righteousness (or *tzedakah*) was achieved—whether through strict adherence to the Torah or through God's gracious initiative. Paul's message of "the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith" directly challenged prevailing notions of earning favor, whether through works of the Law (for Jews) or moral striving (for Gentiles). His emphasis on *faith* as the sole conduit for receiving God's righteousness would have been revolutionary, cutting across established cultural and religious frameworks that prioritized human performance.
* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces and powerfully reinforces several key theological themes central to Romans and Pauline theology. Foremost is the theme of **"the righteousness of God,"** which Paul will elaborate upon as not merely an attribute of God, but a saving status that God graciously imputes to believers. This concept is intricately linked to **"justification by faith,"** highlighting God's initiative in providing a means for humanity to be declared righteous, independent of human merit or legalistic observance. The phrase "from faith to faith" underscores the **exclusive and continuous nature of faith** as the sole principle by which this righteousness is received and lived out. Furthermore, the quotation from [Habakkuk 2:4](/habakkuk/2-4 "Habakkuk 2:4 - The Righteous Live by Faith") establishes the **continuity of God's redemptive plan** across the Old and New Covenants, demonstrating that the principle of living by faith is not a new invention but an ancient divine truth. These themes collectively lay the groundwork for Paul's comprehensive argument for the universal need for salvation and God's singular provision through Christ, as further explored in passages like [Romans 3:21-26](/romans/3-21-26 "Romans 3:21-26 - Righteousness Through Faith in Jesus Christ") and [Galatians 2:16](/galatians/2-16 "Galatians 2:16 - Justified by Faith in Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Righteousness (Greek, _dikaiosýnē'_):** This term (G1343) is central to Paul's argument. While it can refer to God's inherent attribute of justice, in this context, especially as "revealed" through the gospel, it primarily denotes the saving righteousness that God provides and imputes to humanity. It is the state of being declared "right" or "just" in God's sight, a forensic declaration that transforms one's standing before a holy God. This righteousness is not earned by human effort but is a divine gift.
* **Revealed (Greek, _apokalýptō'_):** The verb (G601) literally means "to take off the cover" or "to uncover." Its use here signifies that God's righteousness is not something to be discovered or achieved by human striving, but something that God actively discloses or unveils through the gospel. It highlights God's initiative in salvation, making known what was previously hidden or dimly perceived, emphasizing that this truth comes from God, not from human wisdom or law.
* **Faith (Greek, _pístis'_):** This crucial term (G4102) signifies persuasion, credence, and moral conviction, especially reliance upon Christ for salvation. In Romans 1:17, it is presented as both the origin ("from faith") and the ongoing principle ("to faith") by which God's righteousness is received and lived out. It is not merely intellectual assent but a profound trust and commitment that embraces God's saving work.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For therein is the righteousness of God revealed":** The particle "For" (G1063, *gar*) connects this statement directly to the preceding verse, explaining *why* the gospel is the power of God unto salvation. "Therein" (G1722, G846, *en autō*) refers specifically to the gospel itself, indicating that the gospel is the medium through which this divine truth is made known. The "righteousness of God" (G1343, G2316) is not primarily God's attribute of being righteous, but rather the saving righteousness that God provides for humanity. This righteousness is "revealed" (G601, *apokalýptō*), signifying a divine unveiling, an active disclosure by God, rather than a human discovery or attainment.
* **"from faith to faith":** This phrase (G1537, G4102, G1519, G4102, *ek pisteōs eis pistin*) is rich with meaning, pointing to the nature and progression of this revealed righteousness. It suggests that faith is both the origin and the continuous means by which one receives and lives in God's righteousness. It underscores the exclusivity of faith—it begins with faith, progresses through faith, and is sustained by faith. It implies a journey where faith is the consistent principle from the initial act of belief to the ongoing walk with God.
* **"as it is written, The just shall live by faith.":** Paul grounds his revolutionary theological statement in the authority of the Old Testament. "As it is written" (G2531, G1125, *kathōs gegraptai*) introduces a direct quotation from [Habakkuk 2:4](/habakkuk/2-4 "Habakkuk 2:4 - The Righteous Live by Faith"). This citation serves to demonstrate that the principle of justification by faith is not a novel invention of Paul's but an enduring truth woven into the fabric of God's revelation from ancient times. "The just" (G1342, *dikaios*) refers to those who are declared righteous by God, and "shall live by faith" (G2198, G1537, G4102, *zēsetai ek pisteōs*) affirms that their very existence and spiritual vitality are dependent upon, and sustained by, their continuous trust in God.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in Romans 1:17 to convey his profound theological message. The most prominent is **Quotation**, as Paul directly cites [Habakkuk 2:4](/habakkuk/2-4 "Habakkuk 2:4 - The Righteous Live by Faith"). This serves to anchor his New Covenant theology in the Old Testament, demonstrating continuity and divine consistency, thereby lending prophetic authority to his argument for justification by faith. The phrase "from faith to faith" employs **Repetition** and **Emphasis**, highlighting the singular and pervasive role of faith in the process of salvation and sanctification. This rhythmic repetition underscores the idea that faith is not merely a starting point but the entire journey. Furthermore, the concept of God's righteousness being "revealed" (Greek: *apokalýptō*) utilizes **Revelation** as a central motif, portraying salvation as a divine unveiling rather than a human achievement. This emphasizes God's initiative and sovereign action in making known the means of reconciliation. Finally, the entire verse functions as a concise **Thesis Statement**, encapsulating the central argument that Paul will systematically unfold throughout the Epistle to the Romans, acting as a theological cornerstone for the doctrine of justification by faith.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 1:17 stands as a theological cornerstone, asserting that God's method for making humanity righteous is revealed exclusively through the gospel, not through human works or adherence to law. This "righteousness of God" is not merely an attribute of divine justice, but a saving righteousness that God graciously imputes to those who believe. The phrase "from faith to faith" underscores the singular and continuous nature of faith as the sole conduit for receiving and living in this divine provision, emphasizing that salvation is entirely God's initiative and gift, received through trust. Paul's quotation of Habakkuk firmly roots this New Covenant truth in Old Testament prophecy, demonstrating that God's plan for salvation by faith is consistent across all dispensations.

* [Habakkuk 2:4](/habakkuk/2-4 "Habakkuk 2:4 - The Righteous Live by Faith")
* [Galatians 3:11](/galatians/3-11 "Galatians 3:11 - Justification by Faith, Not Law")
* [Philippians 3:9](/philippians/3-9 "Philippians 3:9 - Righteousness Through Faith in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 1:17 calls us to a profound reorientation of our understanding of salvation and our standing before God. It shatters any illusion that our acceptance by God is based on our performance, our good deeds, or our adherence to religious rituals. Instead, it declares that God's righteousness, His way of making us right with Him, is a divine gift, freely revealed through the gospel and received solely by faith. This truth should cultivate deep humility, recognizing our utter dependence on God's grace, and profound gratitude for a salvation that is entirely His doing. It challenges us to live not by our own strength or merit, but in continuous, moment-by-moment reliance on Christ's finished work, trusting Him for both our initial justification and our ongoing sanctification. The life of faith, as illuminated by this verse, is not a one-time event but a dynamic journey of ever-increasing trust in the God who reveals His righteousness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's righteousness as a gift, rather than something earned, transform your view of salvation and your relationship with God?**
* **In what areas of your life are you still tempted to rely on your own efforts or merits instead of trusting fully in God's provision by faith?**
* **What does it mean practically to live "from faith to faith" in your daily walk?**
* **How does the continuity of the message of faith from the Old Testament (Habakkuk) to the New Testament (Paul) strengthen your confidence in God's unchanging character and plan?**

### FAQ

**What does "the righteousness of God" mean in this verse?**

Answer: In Romans 1:17, "the righteousness of God" (Greek: *dikaiosýnē Theou*) refers primarily to God's saving righteousness, which He graciously provides and imputes to humanity. It is not merely an attribute of God's character (though it flows from it), but rather the divine act and status by which God declares sinners "right" or "just" in His sight. This righteousness is a gift, freely given through the gospel, enabling sinful humanity to stand before a holy God. Paul elaborates on this concept throughout Romans, particularly in [Romans 3:21-26](/romans/3-21-26 "Romans 3:21-26 - Righteousness Through Faith in Jesus Christ"), where he explains that this righteousness comes "through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe."

**What is the significance of the phrase "from faith to faith"?**

Answer: The phrase "from faith to faith" (Greek: *ek pisteōs eis pistin*) emphasizes the comprehensive and exclusive role of faith in receiving and living in God's righteousness. While scholars debate its precise nuance, common interpretations include:
* **From one degree of faith to another:** A progression or growth in faith.
* **From God's faithfulness to human faith:** God's faithfulness initiates the process, which is then received by human faith.
* **Entirely by faith:** Faith is the sole principle from beginning to end, excluding any reliance on works.
The most widely accepted view combines aspects of the third interpretation, signifying that faith is both the origin and the continuous, all-encompassing means by which God's righteousness is revealed and apprehended. It underscores that the Christian life is entirely a life of faith, from justification to sanctification, as further expounded in [Romans 12:3](/romans/12-3 "Romans 12:3 - Measure of Faith") and [2 Corinthians 5:7](/2_corinthians/5-7 "2 Corinthians 5:7 - We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight").

**Why does Paul quote Habakkuk 2:4 here?**

Answer: Paul quotes [Habakkuk 2:4](/habakkuk/2-4 "Habakkuk 2:4 - The Righteous Live by Faith") ("The just shall live by faith") for several crucial reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates that the principle of justification by faith is not a new or radical idea unique to the New Testament, but a foundational truth already present in the Old Testament. This grounds his gospel message in the continuity of God's redemptive plan, showing that God has always intended to save people by faith. Secondly, it provides an authoritative prophetic witness to validate his teaching, appealing to Jewish readers who revered the Scriptures. Thirdly, it highlights the consistent nature of God's character and His unchanging method of relating to humanity—through a covenant of grace received by trust, not by human performance. This quote is so pivotal that Paul also uses it in [Galatians 3:11](/galatians/3-11 "Galatians 3:11 - Justification by Faith, Not Law") and the author of Hebrews in [Hebrews 10:38](/hebrews/10-38 "Hebrews 10:38 - The Righteous Will Live by Faith").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 1:17 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "righteousness of God" that is "revealed" through the gospel is not an abstract concept but is fully embodied and perfectly accomplished in the person and work of Christ. He is the one who perfectly fulfilled all righteousness on humanity's behalf, living a sinless life and offering himself as the spotless sacrifice for sin. Through His atoning death and resurrection, Christ became the very means by which God's righteousness is made available to humanity. As [2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness") declares, "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." Therefore, to live "by faith" means to place one's complete trust and reliance upon Christ alone for salvation, recognizing that His perfect righteousness is imputed to us. He is the object of our faith, the source of our justification, and the very life by which the "just shall live." The gospel reveals that God's saving righteousness is not merely a legal declaration, but a transformative reality made possible through union with Christ, who is our righteousness, sanctification, and redemption ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification, and Redemption")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Habakkuk 2:4

Behold, his soul [which] is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

Galatians 3:11

But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, [it is] evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

Hebrews 10:38

Now the just shall live by faith: but if [any man] draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

Philippians 3:9

¶ And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

Hebrews 11:6

But without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Hebrews 11:7

By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

Romans 9:30

¶ What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.