Articles
Zeal and Knowledge Romans 9:30 – 10:13
Have you ever tried really hard—but in the wrong direction? Like a student studying for the wrong chapter, or a runner sprinting down the wrong trail? You’re putting in effort… but it’s misdirected.
That’s how Paul describes his fellow Israelites in Romans 9 and 10. They were full of zeal—passion, effort, and energy—but they were missing something vital: Jesus.
“They have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.” (Romans 10:2)
The Jews had the Law, the Prophets, the traditions. But when Christ came, many stumbled because they were still trying to earn righteousness by works rather than receiving it by faith. Meanwhile, Gentiles who weren’t chasing righteousness found it—because they believed, trusting and obeying Jesus.
Paul explains that salvation isn’t about effort, status, or ancestry. It’s about faith.
“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)
Here’s the good news:
You don’t need to climb into heaven or descend into the abyss to find Christ.
The gospel is near—ready to be believed, spoken, and lived.
Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Romans 10:13).
So ask yourself:
Is your zeal guided by knowledge?
Are you trusting Jesus or your own goodness?
Is your faith visible in confession and obedient living?
God’s plan is not one of confusion or exclusion. It’s clear and open to all. You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to trust, confess, and follow Jesus. He will never put you to shame.
