Romans 11:6

Romans 11:6 (KJV) is a concise yet profound statement that forms a cornerstone of Paul's theology, particularly his understanding of salvation. It starkly contrasts two fundamental principles for relating to God: grace and works. The verse asserts their absolute incompatibility, declaring that if salvation is based on one, it cannot be based on the other.

Context

This verse is found within Paul's extensive discussion in Romans chapters 9-11 concerning God's faithfulness to Israel and the role of both Jews and Gentiles in His redemptive plan. Specifically, Romans 11 addresses the question of whether God has completely abandoned Israel. Paul argues that there is still a "remnant according to the election of grace" (Romans 11:5). Verse 6 then clarifies the nature of this election: it is purely by grace, not by any human merit or performance. This builds upon Paul's consistent message throughout the book of Romans that justification before God is by faith apart from works of the law.

Key Themes

• Grace and Works are Mutually Exclusive: The verse’s primary message is that grace and works cannot coexist as the basis for salvation or divine favor. If God's favor is unearned (grace), it cannot be dependent on human effort (works), and vice-versa. To mix them is to redefine both concepts, making grace no longer truly "grace" and work no longer truly "work."
• Divine Initiative: Salvation originates entirely with God's unmerited favor. It is not something humanity earns or contributes to through their own actions or obedience to the law. This emphasizes God's sovereignty and generosity.
• No Room for Boasting: If salvation were based on works, it would allow for human pride and boasting. However, because it is by grace, all glory goes to God, aligning with the principle found in Ephesians 2:9, "Not of works, lest any man should boast."

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "grace" is charis (χάρις), signifying unmerited favor, a gift freely given without expectation of return or deservingness. The word for "works" is ergon (ἔργον), referring to deeds, actions, or human effort, particularly in the context of adherence to the Mosaic Law or any system of merit. Paul's emphatic repetition ("no more grace," "no more work") underscores the absolute and non-negotiable distinction between these two concepts. They represent fundamentally different approaches to righteousness.

Practical Application

Romans 11:6 offers immense liberation and clarity for believers today. It assures us that our standing with God is not dependent on our performance or good deeds, but solely on His gracious act through Jesus Christ. This understanding leads to:

• Humility: Recognizing that salvation is a gift prevents self-righteousness and fosters a humble dependence on God.
• Assurance: Our assurance of salvation rests not on our fluctuating ability to perform good works, but on the unchanging character and finished work of God.
• Motivation for Good Works: Rather than performing good works to earn salvation, believers are motivated to do good works because of salvation, as a grateful response to God's grace. These good works are the natural outflow of a transformed heart, as described in Ephesians 2:10.
• Freedom from Legalism: The verse powerfully refutes any attempt to combine human effort with divine grace as a means of salvation, freeing believers from the burden of legalism and striving for acceptance.