Romans Chapter 1
Introduction (Romans 1:1-17)
Paul introduces himself and expresses his desire to visit the Roman church. He states the letter’s theme in Romans 1:16-17, emphasizing the righteousness of God revealed through faith in Jesus Christ.
1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,
Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ: This establishes Paul's identity. He identifies himself as someone devoted completely to Jesus Christ.
called to be an apostle: This refers to Paul's special calling as an Apostle of Jesus. Apostles were chosen disciples entrusted with spreading the message of Jesus and establishing the early Church.
separated unto the gospel of God: This means Paul was set apart for a specific purpose - to proclaim the "gospel of God." The gospel refers to the "good news" of Jesus' sacrifice, death, and resurrection, offering salvation to humanity.
2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)
Which he had promised afore: This refers to the good news (also called the gospel) of Jesus Christ.
by his prophets in the holy scriptures: Paul is saying that God had already hinted at this good news through the prophets mentioned in the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible). These prophets spoke God's message to the Israelites for centuries before Jesus came.
3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;
Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord: This establishes Jesus' identity as Divine, the Lord worthy of our worship.
Which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh: This is the part that speaks to Jesus' dual nature.
Dual Nature: Christians believe Jesus has two natures: fully human and fully divine.
Seed of David according to the flesh: This refers to Jesus' human lineage. The phrase "seed of David" signifies he descended from King David, fulfilling a prophecy about the Messiah coming from David's line (e.g., 2 Samuel 7:12-16). So, Jesus was a real human being, born into a specific historical context.
Fulfilling Prophecy: Jesus' lineage from David is seen as a sign that he is the promised Messiah.
Understanding Jesus' Ministry: Jesus' humanity allowed him to experience life as we do, understand our struggles, and offer compassion.
Relevance of Jesus' Sacrifice: Because Jesus was fully human, his sacrifice on the cross is considered an act of solidarity with humanity, taking on our suffering to redeem us.
The Other Half: While this verse focuses on Jesus' human nature, the following verse (Romans 1:4) talks about his divine nature: "declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness by the resurrection from the dead."
Mystery of the Incarnation: The concept of Jesus being both fully human and fully divine is a mystery that theologians have pondered for centuries. It's a central tenet of faith, but not meant to be fully understood through logic alone.
4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:
And declared to be the Son of God: This refers to Jesus' divine nature. He wasn't just a human teacher or prophet, but God robed in Flesh.
with power: This emphasizes the certainty and strength of this declaration. It wasn't a mere suggestion, but a powerful demonstration.
according to the spirit of holiness: This refers to the Holy Spirit, God's presence and power. The Holy Spirit is often associated with holiness and purity. Some interpretations see this as referring to Jesus' sinless life, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
by the resurrection from the dead: This is the central event. Jesus' resurrection from the dead is considered the ultimate proof of his divinity and power over death.
5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:
By whom: This refers back to God, mentioned earlier in the passage.
We have received grace and apostleship:
Grace: This refers to God's undeserved favor and love bestowed upon humanity.
Apostleship: This refers to the calling and mission of the Apostles, the special disciples chosen by Jesus to spread his teachings.
For obedience to the faith among all nations: This is the purpose of grace and apostleship. It's to bring people from all nations (Gentiles) to believe and follow Jesus (obedience to the faith).
For his name: This refers to God's glory and reputation. The ultimate goal is to bring people to faith and obedience, which brings glory to God's name.
6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:
Among whom: This refers back to the "all nations" mentioned in verse 5.
Are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:
Ye: This is an archaic pronoun meaning "you" (plural).
The called: This refers to those who have been invited or chosen by Jesus Christ.
Of Jesus Christ: This clarifies that the calling comes specifically from Jesus.
To Be Continued.........