Romans 9:33

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

As {G2531} it is written {G1125}, Behold {G2400}, I lay {G5087} in {G1722} Sion {G4622} a stumblingstone {G3037}{G4348} and {G2532} rock {G4073} of offence {G4625}: and {G2532} whosoever {G3956} believeth {G4100} on {G1909} him {G846} shall {G2617} not {G3756} be ashamed {G2617}.

Complete Jewish Bible

As the Tanakh puts it,

“Look, I am laying in Tziyon
a stone that will make people stumble,
a rock that will trip them up.
But he who rests his trust on it
will not be humiliated.”

Berean Standard Bible

as it is written: “See, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense; and the one who believes in Him will never be put to shame.”

American Standard Version

even as it is written, Behold, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling and a rock of offence: And he that believeth on him shall not be put to shame.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 9:33 encapsulates Paul's profound theological argument regarding Israel's rejection of Christ and God's unwavering faithfulness, drawing upon Old Testament prophecies to explain why the Messiah, intended as a cornerstone for some, became a stumbling block for others. It highlights the stark contrast between those who pursue righteousness through works of the law, inevitably stumbling over Christ, and those who embrace Him by faith, thereby receiving an unshakeable assurance that prevents shame.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 9:33 serves as the climactic conclusion to a pivotal section in Paul's letter (Romans 9-11) where he grapples with the perplexing question of Israel's widespread unbelief despite being God's chosen people. Paul has just explained that God's promises are not based on ethnic lineage but on divine election and a remnant chosen by grace ([Romans 9:6-13](/romans/9-6-13 "Romans 9:6-13 - God's Sovereign Choice")). He then addresses God's justice in hardening some and showing mercy to others ([Romans 9:14-29](/romans/9-14-29 "Romans 9:14-29 - God's Justice and Mercy")), before contrasting Israel's pursuit of righteousness by works with the Gentile's attainment of righteousness by faith ([Romans 9:30-32](/romans/9-30-32 "Romans 9:30-32 - Israel's Stumbling Block")). This verse, quoting Isaiah, powerfully summarizes *why* Israel stumbled: they sought righteousness through their own efforts rather than through faith in the Messiah God provided.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Judaism was deeply rooted in the Law (Torah) and the covenant God made with Abraham. Many Jews believed their national identity and adherence to the Mosaic Law were the primary means of righteousness and salvation. Their expectation of the Messiah was often tied to a conquering king who would liberate them from Roman oppression and restore Israel's earthly kingdom, not a suffering servant who would die on a cross. The concept of a crucified Messiah was a profound "scandal" or "stumbling block" to Jewish sensibilities, as death on a tree was associated with a curse ([Deuteronomy 21:23](/deuteronomy/21-23 "Deuteronomy 21:23 - Cursed is Everyone Who Hangs on a Tree")). Furthermore, the idea of Gentiles being included in God's salvation plan on equal footing with Jews, apart from circumcision and the Law, was revolutionary and deeply offensive to many, contributing to their rejection of the Gospel.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Romans and the New Testament. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Salvation by Faith vs. Works**, contrasting Israel's failed attempt to achieve righteousness through legalistic adherence with the divine provision of righteousness through faith in Christ. Secondly, it highlights **Christ as the Divine Touchstone**, revealing Him as both the precious cornerstone for those who believe and a "stumblingstone and rock of offence" for those who reject Him, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies ([Isaiah 8:14](/isaiah/8-14 "Isaiah 8:14 - A Stone of Stumbling") and [Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - A Precious Cornerstone")). Thirdly, it speaks to **God's Sovereign Purpose**, demonstrating that Israel's stumbling was not an accident but part of God's redemptive plan, ultimately leading to the inclusion of the Gentiles ([Romans 11:11-12](/romans/11-11-12 "Romans 11:11-12 - Israel's Temporary Stumbling for Gentile Salvation")). Finally, it offers **Assurance for Believers**, promising that those who trust in Christ will never be put to shame, emphasizing the security and vindication of genuine faith.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Behold (Greek, _idoú'_):** This imperative particle serves as an exclamation, drawing immediate attention to what follows. It signals a divine pronouncement or a significant revelation, much like "Lo!" or "See!" It emphasizes the importance and certainty of the prophetic declaration that God Himself is initiating this action.
* **stumblingstone (Greek, _próskomma'_):** Derived from a verb meaning "to strike against" or "to trip," this word literally refers to an obstacle or something that causes one to stumble or fall. In this context, it is used figuratively to describe Christ as an impediment or cause of spiritual ruin for those who refuse to believe in Him. It highlights the unexpected nature of the Messiah for those who had preconceived notions.
* **believeth (Greek, _pisteúō'_):** This verb signifies more than mere intellectual assent; it denotes a deep, active trust, reliance, and commitment to a person or thing. In the context of salvation, it means to entrust one's spiritual well-being entirely to Christ, implying a personal surrender and confident reliance on His atoning work. This active faith is contrasted with the self-effort of seeking righteousness through works.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence:"** This opening clause functions as a direct quotation and synthesis of Old Testament prophecies, primarily from [Isaiah 8:14](/isaiah/8-14 "Isaiah 8:14 - A Stone of Stumbling") and [Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - A Precious Cornerstone"). The phrase "As it is written" underscores the divine authority and prophetic fulfillment of God's plan. "Behold, I lay in Sion" emphasizes God's sovereign initiative in establishing Christ (the "stumblingstone and rock of offence") in Jerusalem (Sion), the spiritual center of Israel. The combined imagery of a "stumblingstone" (próskomma) and "rock of offence" (skándalon) vividly portrays Christ as an obstacle or cause of spiritual ruin for those who reject Him, particularly the Jewish people who sought righteousness through the Law rather than faith.
* **"and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed."** This contrasting clause presents the alternative to stumbling: salvation through faith. "Whosoever" highlights the universal scope of God's offer, extending beyond ethnic boundaries. "Believeth on him" specifies that the object of saving faith is Christ Himself. The powerful promise "shall not be ashamed" assures believers of ultimate vindication, confidence, and security. It means they will not be disappointed, disgraced, or confounded, especially in the day of judgment, but will find their hope in Christ fully realized and their trust eternally honored.

#### Literary Devices
Romans 9:33 is rich in literary devices that amplify its theological weight. **Allusion** and **Quotation** are paramount, as Paul directly references and synthesizes two distinct prophecies from Isaiah ([Isaiah 8:14](/isaiah/8-14 "Isaiah 8:14 - A Stone of Stumbling") and [Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - A Precious Cornerstone")). This intertextual connection validates his argument by demonstrating its rootedness in the Old Testament, showing that Christ's role as both cornerstone and stumbling block was divinely foretold. The verse employs powerful **Metaphor** through the imagery of a "stumblingstone" and "rock of offence." These terms are not literal rocks but represent Christ as an obstacle that causes spiritual falling for those who reject Him. Conversely, the implied **Metaphor** of a "cornerstone" (from the Isaiah 28:16 context) for those who believe highlights His foundational and unifying role. Furthermore, the verse utilizes sharp **Antithesis** or **Contrast** by juxtaposing two distinct outcomes: stumbling and shame for unbelievers versus unwavering confidence and no shame for believers. This stark contrast underscores the critical choice presented by Christ and the divergent destinies that result from faith or unbelief. Finally, there is an element of **Paradox** in that the very one God "lays in Sion" as a foundation for some becomes the cause of ruin for others.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 9:33 profoundly articulates the theological truth that God's plan of salvation, while rooted in His covenant with Israel, ultimately transcends ethnic boundaries and is realized through faith in Jesus Christ. It underscores the divine paradox where the Messiah, intended as the cornerstone of God's redemptive work, becomes a point of contention and rejection for those who cling to self-righteousness or national privilege. This verse highlights the enduring tension between human responsibility and divine sovereignty, demonstrating that God's purposes are fulfilled even through human unbelief, ultimately opening the door for Gentile inclusion. It firmly establishes that true righteousness and a secure hope are found exclusively in humble faith in Christ, not in human effort or lineage, a foundational principle of the New Covenant.

* [Isaiah 8:14](/isaiah/8-14 "Isaiah 8:14 - A Stone of Stumbling for Both Houses of Israel")
* [Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - A Precious Cornerstone Laid in Zion")
* [1 Peter 2:6-8](/1_peter/2-6-8 "1 Peter 2:6-8 - Christ as the Living Stone, Cornerstone, and Stone of Stumbling")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 9:33 calls us to a profound self-examination regarding the nature of our faith and the object of our trust. Is Jesus Christ truly the solid foundation upon which our lives and hopes are built, or do we, like many in Paul's day, find Him to be a "stumblingstone" because we rely on our own achievements, moral efforts, or religious traditions for acceptance before God? This verse serves as a powerful reminder that genuine salvation and spiritual security come only through humble, active faith in Christ's finished work, not through any human merit. For those who believe, there is an unshakable promise of vindication and confidence, assuring us that our hope in Him will never lead to disappointment or shame, even in the face of judgment or adversity. It challenges us to continually re-evaluate where our trust truly lies and to rest fully in the unmerited grace offered through Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be tempted to rely on my own efforts or achievements for righteousness, rather than fully trusting in Christ?**
* **How does the concept of Christ as a "stumblingstone" challenge my preconceived notions about God's plan or the nature of salvation?**
* **What does the promise "shall not be ashamed" mean for my daily walk and my eternal hope?**
* **How can I better communicate the simplicity and profundity of salvation by faith in Christ to others who may be "stumbling" over legalism or self-righteousness?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean that Christ is a "stumblingstone and rock of offence"?**

Answer: This phrase, drawn from Old Testament prophecies, means that Jesus Christ became an obstacle or a cause of spiritual downfall for those who rejected Him. For many Jews in Paul's time, their expectations of a Messiah who would liberate them politically, combined with their reliance on the Law for righteousness, made the crucified Christ a "scandal" ([1 Corinthians 1:23](/1_corinthians/1-23 "1 Corinthians 1:23 - Christ Crucified, a Stumbling Block")). Instead of building their hope upon Him as the divinely appointed cornerstone, they tripped over Him because He did not fit their preconceived notions or because they refused to abandon their self-righteous efforts. This "stumbling" was not accidental but part of God's sovereign plan to reveal the true nature of faith and open salvation to all who believe.

**Why did Israel "stumble" over Christ, according to Paul?**

Answer: Paul explains in [Romans 9:30-32](/romans/9-30-32 "Romans 9:30-32 - Israel's Pursuit of Righteousness") that Israel pursued righteousness "not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law." They sought to establish their own righteousness through adherence to the Mosaic Law and their national identity, rather than humbly receiving the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ. Their failure to recognize and embrace Christ as the true path to righteousness caused them to stumble over Him, who was the very fulfillment of the Law and the prophets. This was a spiritual blindness rooted in self-reliance rather than reliance on God's provision.

**What is the significance of the promise "whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed"?**

Answer: This promise offers profound assurance to all who place their trust in Jesus Christ. To "not be ashamed" means that their hope will not be disappointed, their trust will not be proven foolish, and they will not face disgrace or condemnation, especially in the ultimate day of judgment. It signifies ultimate vindication, security, and confidence in God's faithfulness. Unlike those who stumble and face spiritual ruin, believers will find their faith rewarded with eternal life and glory, having their hope in Christ fully realized. This promise echoes similar assurances found throughout Scripture for those who trust in the Lord ([Psalm 25:3](/psalm/25-3 "Psalm 25:3 - Let None Who Wait on You Be Ashamed")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 9:33 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is revealed as the very "stumblingstone and rock of offence" foretold by the prophets, yet also the precious cornerstone upon whom God's new temple is built. He is the one whom God "laid in Sion" ([Isaiah 28:16](/isaiah/28-16 "Isaiah 28:16 - A Precious Cornerstone Laid in Zion")), not merely as a historical figure, but as the divine Son, the Lamb of God, whose sacrificial death and resurrection became the pivotal event in salvation history. For those who, like many in Israel, clung to a righteousness based on works or national identity, Christ's humility, suffering, and crucifixion were an insurmountable scandal, causing them to stumble and reject the very salvation God offered ([1 Corinthians 1:23](/1_corinthians/1-23 "1 Corinthians 1:23 - Christ Crucified, a Stumbling Block")). However, for all who "believe on him," Jesus is not a stumbling block but the firm and unshakeable foundation ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ as the Chief Cornerstone")) upon whom their eternal hope rests. His life, death, and resurrection perfectly fulfill the divine purpose, demonstrating that salvation is by grace through faith alone ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith")). Thus, Christ is simultaneously the point of division and the sole means of reconciliation, ensuring that "whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed," but will find eternal glory and peace in Him ([Romans 10:11](/romans/10-11 "Romans 10:11 - Everyone Who Believes Will Not Be Put to Shame")).

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 10:11

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

Joel 2:26

And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall never be ashamed.

Joel 2:27

And ye shall know that I [am] in the midst of Israel, and [that] I [am] the LORD your God, and none else: and my people shall never be ashamed.

Isaiah 8:14

And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.

Isaiah 8:15

And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.

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.