Romans 10:11

KJV

For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} the scripture {G1124} saith {G3004}, Whosoever {G3956} believeth {G4100} on {G1909} him {G846} shall {G2617} not {G3756} be ashamed {G2617}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the passage quoted says that everyone who rests his trust on him will not be humiliated.

Berean Standard Bible

It is just as the Scripture says: “Anyone who believes in Him will never be put to shame.”

American Standard Version

For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be put to shame.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 10:11 stands as a profound declaration of God's universal plan of salvation through faith, asserting that anyone who places their trust in Jesus Christ will never experience disappointment, disgrace, or condemnation. This verse, drawn from Old Testament prophecy, encapsulates the New Covenant's radical inclusivity, emphasizing that divine vindication and eternal security are freely available to all who believe, transcending ethnic or social distinctions.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 10:11 is strategically positioned within Paul's extended argument concerning Israel's relationship to the gospel, particularly in chapters 9-11. Having expressed his deep anguish and fervent prayer for Israel's salvation in [Romans 10:1](/romans/10-1 "Romans 10:1 - Paul's Desire for Israel's Salvation"), Paul contrasts the righteousness sought through the Law with the righteousness freely offered through faith. Verses [Romans 10:9-10](/romans/10-9-10 "Romans 10:9-10 - The Confession of Faith") articulate the core requirements for salvation—confession of Jesus as Lord and belief in His resurrection. Verse 11 then serves as a foundational Old Testament proof text, quoting [Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - The Cornerstone Prophecy"), to underscore the divine certainty and universal scope of this faith-based salvation. It reinforces the idea that this path is not merely a New Testament innovation but is rooted in God's ancient promises, providing an unshakeable basis for the preceding declaration of faith.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's audience in Rome was a diverse community of Jewish and Gentile believers, grappling with questions of identity, inclusion, and the role of the Mosaic Law in the new covenant. For Jewish believers, the concept of "shame" (Greek: *kataischýnō*) carried significant weight, often associated with public disgrace, divine judgment, or the failure of one's hopes, particularly in the context of covenant faithfulness. The Old Testament passage quoted ([Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - The Cornerstone Prophecy")) originally promised that those who trusted in God's chosen "cornerstone" (often interpreted messianically) would not be put to shame or "make haste" (i.e., flee in panic or disappointment). Paul applies this promise directly to faith in Christ, asserting that the shame of unfulfilled expectation or divine rejection, which might have been a concern for both Jews and Gentiles regarding their standing before God, is entirely removed by faith in Jesus. This promise of "no shame" was profoundly reassuring in a culture where honor and shame played a central role in social and religious identity.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Romans. Firstly, it solidifies the theme of **Salvation by Faith Alone**, emphasizing that belief in Christ, rather than adherence to the Law or ethnic lineage, is the singular conduit for divine favor and escape from condemnation. Secondly, the phrase "Whosoever believeth on him" is pivotal for the theme of the **Universality of the Gospel**. It shatters any notion of exclusivity, proclaiming that God's redemptive plan is open to all humanity, Jew and Gentile alike, who embrace Christ by faith. This universal scope is further elaborated in [Romans 3:22](/romans/3-22 "Romans 3:22 - Righteousness for All Believers") and [Romans 10:12-13](/romans/10-12-13 "Romans 10:12-13 - The Lord is Rich to All Who Call on Him"). Thirdly, the promise to "not be ashamed" underscores the theme of **Divine Vindication and Security**. It assures believers that their hope in Christ will not be disappointed, their faith will be honored, and they will ultimately stand justified and glorified before God, contrasting sharply with the shame and judgment awaiting those who reject God's provision. This promise echoes the assurance found in [Romans 5:5](/romans/5-5 "Romans 5:5 - Hope Does Not Disappoint").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Scripture (Greek, _graphḗ'_):** From *graphō* (to write), this term refers to a document, specifically holy Writ or its contents. In this context, it designates the inspired Old Testament, affirming that Paul's declaration about faith and no shame is not a novel idea but is rooted in God's long-established revelation. Paul uses this term to lend divine authority and prophetic weight to his theological argument.
* **Believeth (Greek, _pisteúō'_):** Derived from *pistis* (faith), this verb signifies more than mere intellectual assent to a set of facts. It denotes a deep, committed trust, reliance, and personal surrender to a person or thing. Here, it specifically means to have faith in, or entrust one's spiritual well-being to, Jesus Christ. This active, trusting faith is presented as the sole condition for receiving God's promises.
* **Ashamed (Greek, _kataischýnō'_):** This word means to shame down, disgrace, or put to the blush. In a salvific context, it conveys the idea of being disappointed, confounded, or disgraced in one's hope or expectation. The promise "shall not be ashamed" assures the believer that their trust in Christ will not prove futile, their hope will not be dashed, and they will not face condemnation or public disgrace before God or humanity, but rather vindication and honor.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the scripture saith":** This introductory clause firmly grounds Paul's assertion in the authoritative Word of God. By quoting from [Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - The Precious Cornerstone"), Paul demonstrates that the principle of salvation through faith, leading to an unashamed standing before God, is not a new concept but a fulfillment of ancient prophecy. It emphasizes the continuity of God's redemptive plan across both testaments.
* **"Whosoever believeth on him":** This phrase is profoundly significant for its universal scope. "Whosoever" (Greek: *pâs*) unequivocally declares that salvation is available to *all* people, without distinction of Jew or Gentile, male or female, slave or free. The object of this belief, "him," refers explicitly to Jesus Christ, the cornerstone mentioned in the Isaiah prophecy. This clause highlights the inclusive nature of the gospel, breaking down barriers and extending God's grace to anyone who exercises genuine faith in Christ.
* **"shall not be ashamed":** This is the glorious promise attached to belief. To "not be ashamed" means that the believer's hope will not be disappointed, their trust will not be misplaced, and they will not face condemnation or disgrace at the final judgment. Instead, they will be vindicated, honored, and receive the full benefits of salvation, including eternal life and a secure standing before God. This promise assures ultimate security and fulfillment for all who put their faith in Christ.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in Romans 10:11. The primary device is **Quotation/Allusion**, as he directly cites [Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - The Cornerstone Prophecy") to provide Old Testament validation for his New Testament teaching on faith. This not only lends authoritative weight to his argument but also demonstrates the continuity of God's redemptive plan. Furthermore, the phrase "Whosoever" employs **Universal Language**, emphasizing the boundless and inclusive nature of God's grace, extending salvation to all humanity regardless of their background. This stands in stark **Contrast** to the exclusive nature of the Law, which was primarily given to Israel. The promise "shall not be ashamed" also functions as **Antithesis**, contrasting the potential shame of unfulfilled hope or divine judgment with the assured vindication and honor that faith in Christ brings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 10:11 powerfully articulates the core theological truth of justification by faith, emphasizing that God's righteousness is imputed to all who believe in Christ, leading to an unshakeable assurance of salvation. This verse dismantles any perceived hierarchy in God's redemptive plan, asserting that the same path to salvation is open to all humanity, fulfilling ancient prophecies in a new, expansive way through Christ. It underscores that the foundation of our hope is not our own merit or performance, but the unwavering faithfulness of God to His promises and the sufficiency of Christ's work. The promise of "no shame" speaks to the believer's ultimate vindication and acceptance before God, removing the fear of judgment and instilling profound security.

* [Romans 3:22](/romans/3-22 "Romans 3:22 - God's Righteousness for All Who Believe")
* [Romans 5:5](/romans/5-5 "Romans 5:5 - Hope Does Not Disappoint")
* [1 Peter 2:6](/1_peter/2-6 "1 Peter 2:6 - The Living Stone and Believers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 10:11 offers immense comfort and profound implications for daily Christian living. It serves as a bedrock assurance that our salvation is not precarious or dependent on our fluctuating performance, but is securely anchored in the unchangeable promise of God to those who simply believe in Jesus. This truth liberates us from the anxiety of striving for acceptance and empowers us to live with confidence, knowing that our hope in Christ will never lead to disappointment or disgrace. The "whosoever" clause is a powerful reminder of the gospel's radical inclusivity, challenging us to extend this same grace and invitation to everyone, regardless of their background or past. It compels us to share the good news with boldness, knowing that God's open arms are ready to embrace all who turn to Him in faith. Furthermore, in a world that often brings shame, criticism, and condemnation, this verse promises ultimate vindication and honor from God Himself. Our identity and worth are not derived from human approval or worldly success, but from our secure standing as beloved children of God through faith in Christ. We can therefore live courageously, knowing that our eternal destiny is secure and our faith will be fully honored by the One who matters most.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of "not being ashamed" impact your daily confidence and security in your relationship with God?**
* **In what ways does the "whosoever" aspect of this verse challenge you to broaden your understanding of who the gospel is for, and how might that influence your evangelism?**
* **Considering the cultural emphasis on honor and shame, how does the assurance of "no shame" in Christ free you from seeking validation from others or fearing their judgment?**
* **If your hope is truly in Christ, how should that affect your response to disappointments or setbacks in life, knowing your ultimate hope will not fail?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to "not be ashamed" in the context of Romans 10:11?**

Answer: To "not be ashamed" means that the hope and trust placed in Jesus Christ will never prove to be unfounded or lead to disappointment, disgrace, or condemnation. It signifies ultimate vindication and security before God. In the Old Testament context from which Paul quotes ([Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - The Cornerstone Prophecy")), it means that those who trust in God's chosen cornerstone will not be put to shame or flee in panic when judgment comes. For the believer in Christ, this implies that their faith will be honored, their salvation secured, and they will stand justified and accepted in God's presence, rather than facing the shame of sin or divine rejection. It's a promise of eternal security and the fulfillment of all God's promises to those who believe, as echoed in [Romans 5:5](/romans/5-5 "Romans 5:5 - Hope Does Not Disappoint").

**Is this verse only for a specific group of people, or is it truly universal?**

Answer: Romans 10:11 is explicitly universal. The phrase "Whosoever believeth on him" (Greek: *pâs ho pisteúōn ep' autō*) unequivocally declares that God's plan of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ is open to *all* people, without any distinction. Paul emphasizes this universality throughout Romans, particularly in [Romans 3:22](/romans/3-22 "Romans 3:22 - Righteousness for All Believers"), where he states that God's righteousness is "unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference." He further clarifies in [Romans 10:12](/romans/10-12 "Romans 10:12 - No Distinction Between Jew and Gentile") that "there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him." This verse stands as a powerful testament to the inclusive nature of the gospel, inviting anyone and everyone to receive salvation through faith.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 10:11 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "cornerstone" prophesied in [Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - The Cornerstone Prophecy"), upon whom all who believe will not be ashamed, is none other than Jesus Himself. He is the foundation laid by God, the "living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious" ([1 Peter 2:4](/1_peter/2-4 "1 Peter 2:4 - Christ, the Living Stone")). Through His perfect life, atoning death, and triumphant resurrection, Christ has fully accomplished the work necessary for humanity's salvation. Therefore, when we "believe on him," we are not placing our trust in a fallible human system or our own merit, but in the perfect, finished work of the Son of God. His righteousness is imputed to us, ensuring that we will "not be ashamed" before a holy God ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). The promise of no shame is secured by Christ's victory over sin and death, guaranteeing that those who are "in Christ Jesus" face "no condemnation" ([Romans 8:1](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1 - No Condemnation in Christ Jesus")). He is the one who bears our shame on the cross ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking Unto Jesus")), so that we might receive glory and honor from God ([Romans 8:30](/romans/8-30 "Romans 8:30 - Glorification of Believers")). Thus, Romans 10:11 is a testament to the absolute sufficiency and glorious outcome of faith centered entirely on Christ.

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

Isaiah 28:16

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.

Romans 9:33

As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

1 Peter 2:6

Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

Isaiah 49:23

And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers: they shall bow down to thee with [their] face toward the earth, and lick up the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I [am] the LORD: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me.

Jeremiah 17:7

Blessed [is] the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.