Verse
Context
Sermons
Derek Prince
Kathryn Kuhlman
Paul Washer
Alan RedpathPaul Washer
Chuck SmithSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ - The word δουλος, which we translate servant, properly means a slave, one who is the entire property of his master; and is used here by the apostle with great propriety. He felt he was not his own, and that his life and powers belonged to his heavenly owner, and that he had no right to dispose of or employ them but in the strictest subserviency to the will of his Lord. In this sense, and in this spirit, he is the willing slave of Jesus Christ; and this is, perhaps, the highest character which any soul of man can attain on this side eternity. "I am wholly the Lord's; and wholly devoted in the spirit of sacrificial obedience, to the constant, complete, and energetic performance of the Divine will." A friend of God is high; a son of God is higher; but the servant, or, in the above sense, the slave of God, is higher than all; - in a word, he is a person who feels he has no property in himself, and that God is all and in all. Called to be an apostle - The word αποστολος, apostle, from αποστελλειν, to send, signifies simply a messenger or envoy; one sent on a confidential errand: but here it means an extraordinary messenger; one sent by God himself to deliver the most important message on behalf of his Maker; - in a word, one sent by the Divine authority to preach the Gospel to the nations. The word κλητος, called, signifies here the same as constituted, and should be joined with αποστολος, as it is in the Greek, and translated thus: Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, constituted an apostle, etc. This sense the word called has in many places of the sacred writings; e. g. Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed on us, that we should be called, κληθωμεν, Constituted, or made the sons of God. As it is likely that no apostle had been employed in founding the Church of Rome, and there was need of much authority to settle the matters that were there in dispute, it was necessary he should show them that he derived his authority from God, and was immediately delegated by him to preach and write as he was now doing. Separated unto the Gospel - Set apart and appointed to this work, and to this only; as the Israelites were separate from all the people of the earth, to be the servants of God: see Lev 20:26. St. Paul may here refer to his former state as a Pharisee, which literally signifies a separatist, or one separated. Before he was separated unto the service of his own sect; now he is separated unto the Gospel of God. On the word Gospel, and its meaning, see the preface to the notes on St. Matthew; and for the meaning of the word Pharisee, see the same Gospel, Mat 3:7 (note).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ,.... The name of the author of this epistle is Paul, who formerly was called Saul. Some think his name was changed upon his own conversion; others, upon the conversion of the Roman deputy Sergius Paulus, Act 13:7; others, that he was so called from the littleness of his stature; but rather it should seem that he had two names, which was usual with the Jews; one by which they went among the Gentiles, and another by they were called in their own land; See Gill on Act 13:9. "A servant of Jesus Christ"; not a servant of sin, nor of Satan, nor of man, nor of Moses and his law, nor of the traditions of the elders, but of Jesus Christ; and not by creation only, but by redemption, and by powerful efficacious grace in conversion; which is no ways contrary to true liberty; nor a disgraceful, but a most honourable character; and which chiefly regards him as a minister of the Gospel: called to be an apostle: an apostle was one that was immediately sent by Christ, and had his authority and doctrine directly from him, and had a power of working miracles from him, in confirmation of the truth of his mission, authority, and doctrine; all which were to be found in the author of this epistle, who did not thrust himself into this office, or take this honour to himself, of which he always judged himself unworthy, but was "called" to it according to the will, and by the grace of God: separated unto the Gospel of God. This may regard either God's eternal purpose concerning him, his preordination of him from eternity to be a preacher of the Gospel, to which he was separated from his mother's womb, Gal 1:15; or the separation of him to that work made by the order of the Spirit of God, Act 13:2. The phrase used is either in allusion to the priests and Levites, who were separated from their brethren the children of Israel, to their sacred employments; or rather to the apostle's having been "a Pharisee", which signifies "one separated", as he was now; only with this difference, before he was separated to the law, but now "to the Gospel", to preach and defend it, which he did with all faithfulness and integrity; the excellency of which Gospel is signified by its being called "the Gospel of God": he is the author of it; his grace is the subject of it; and he it is who commits it to men, qualifies them for the preaching of it, and succeeds them in it.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In this paragraph we have, I. The person who writes the epistle described (Rom 1:1): Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ; this is his title of honour, which he glories in, not as the Jewish teachers, Rabbi, Rabbi; but a servant, a more immediate attendant, a steward in the house. Called to be an apostle. Some think he alludes to his old name Saul, which signifies one called for, or enquired after: Christ sought him to make an apostle of him, Act 9:15. He here builds his authority upon his call; he did not run without sending, as the false apostles did; klētos apostolos - called an apostle, as if this were the name he would be called by, though he acknowledged himself not meet to be called so, Co1 15:9. Separated to the gospel of God. The Pharisees had their name from separation, because they separated themselves to the study of the law, and might be called aphōrismenoi eis ton nomon; such a one Paul had formerly been; but now he had changed his studies, was aphōrismenos eis to Euangelion, a gospel Pharisee, separated by the counsel of God (Gal 1:15), separated from his mother's womb, by an immediate direction of the Spirit, and a regular ordination according to that direction (Act 13:2, Act 13:3), by a dedication of himself to this work. He was an entire devotee to the gospel of God, the gospel which has God for its author, the origin and extraction of it divine and heavenly. II. Having mentioned the gospel of God, he digresses, to give us an encomium of it. 1. The antiquity of it. It was promised before (Rom 1:2); it was no novel upstart doctrine, but of ancient standing in the promises and prophecies of the old Testament, which did all unanimously point at the gospel, the morning-beams that ushered in the sun of righteousness; this not by word of mouth only, but in the scriptures. 2. The subject-matter of it: it is concerning Christ, Rom 1:3, Rom 1:4. The prophets and apostles all bear witness to him; he is the true treasure hid in the field of the scriptures. Observe, When Paul mentions Christ, how he heaps up his names and titles, his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, as one that took a pleasure in speaking of him; and, having mentioned him, he cannot go on in his discourse without some expression of love and honour, as here, where in one person he shows us his two distinct natures. (1.) His human nature: Made of the seed of David (Rom 1:3), that is, born of the virgin Mary, who was of the house of David (Luk 1:27), as was Joseph his supposed father, Luk 2:4. David is here mentioned, because of the special promises made to him concerning the Messiah, especially his kingly office; Sa2 7:12; Psa 132:11, compared with Luk 1:32, Luk 1:33. (2.) His divine nature: Declared to be the Son of God (Rom 1:4), the Son of God by eternal generation, or, as it is here explained, according to the Spirit of holiness. According to the flesh, that is, his human nature, he was of the seed of David; but, according to the Spirit of holiness, that is, the divine nature (as he is said to be quickened by the Spirit, Pe1 3:18, compared with Co2 13:4), he is the Son of God. The great proof or demonstration of this is his resurrection from the dead, which proved it effectually and undeniably. The sign of the prophet Jonas, Christ's resurrection, was intended for the last conviction, Mat 12:39, Mat 12:40. Those that would not be convinced by that would be convinced by nothing. So that we have here a summary of the gospel doctrine concerning Christ's two natures in one person. 3. The fruit of it (Rom 1:5); By whom, that is, by Christ manifested and made known in the gospel, we (Paul and the rest of the ministers) have received grace and apostleship, that is, the favour to be made apostles, Eph 3:8. The apostles were made a spectacle to the world, led a life of toil, and trouble, and hazard, were killed all the day long, and yet Paul reckons the apostleship a favour: we may justly reckon it a great favour to be employed in any work or service for God, whatever difficulties or dangers we may meet with in it. This apostleship was received for obedience to the faith, that is, to bring people to that obedience; as Christ, so his ministers, received that they might give. Paul's was for this obedience among all nations, for he was the apostle of the Gentiles, Rom 11:13. Observe the description here given of the Christian profession: it is obedience to the faith. It does not consist in a notional knowledge or a naked assent, much less does it consist in perverse disputings, but in obedience. This obedience to the faith answers the law of faith, mentioned Rom 3:27. The act of faith is the obedience of the understanding to God revealing, and the product of that is the obedience of the will to God commanding. To anticipate the ill use which might be made of the doctrine of justification by faith without the works of the law, which he was to explain in the following epistle, he here speaks of Christianity as an obedience. Christ has a yoke. "Among whom are you, Rom 1:6. You Romans in this stand upon the same level with other Gentile nations of less fame and wealth; you are all one in Christ." The gospel salvation is a common salvation, Jde 1:3. No respect of persons with God. The called of Jesus Christ; all those, and those only, are brought to an obedience of the faith that are effectually called of Jesus Christ. III. The persons to whom it is written (Rom 1:7): To all that are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints; that is, to all the professing Christians that were in Rome, whether Jews or Gentiles originally, whether high or low, bond or free, learned or unlearned. Rich and poor meet together in Christ Jesus. Here is, 1. The privilege of Christians: They are beloved of God, they are members of that body which is beloved, which is God's Hephzibah, in which his delight is. We speak of God's love by his bounty and beneficence, and so he hath a common love to all mankind and a peculiar love for true believers; and between these there is a love he hath for all the body of visible Christians. 2. The duty of Christians; and that is to be holy, for hereunto are they called, called to be saints, called to salvation through sanctification. Saints, and only saints, are beloved of God with a special and peculiar love. Klētois hagiois - called saints, saints in profession; it were well if all that are called saints were saints indeed. Those that are called saints should labour to answer to the name; otherwise, though it is an honour and a privilege, yet it will be of little avail at the great day to have been called saints, if we be not really so. IV. The apostolical benediction (Rom 1:7): Grace to you and peace. This is one of the tokens in every epistle; and it hath not only the affection of a good wish, but the authority of a blessing. The priests under the law were to bless the people, and so are gospel ministers, in the name of the Lord. In this usual benediction observe, 1. The favours desired: Grace and peace. The Old Testament salutation was, Peace be to you; but now grace is prefixed - grace, that is, the favour of God towards us or the work of God in us; both are previously requisite to true peace. All gospel blessings are included in these two: grace and peace. Peace, that is all good; peace with God, peace in your own consciences, peace with all that are about you; all these founded in grace. 2. The fountain of those favours, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. All good comes, (1.) From God as a Father; he hath put himself into that relation to engage and encourage our desires and expectations; we are taught, when we come for grace and peace, to call him our Father. (2.) From the Lord Jesus Christ, as Mediator, and the great feoffee in trust for the conveying and securing of these benefits. We have them from his fulness, peace from the fulness of his merit, grace from the fulness of his Spirit.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:1-17 These verses contain the normal features of New Testament letter introductions: an identification of the writer (1:1-6) and readers (1:7), a thanksgiving (1:8-15), and the theme of the letter (1:16-17). 1:1 slave of Christ Jesus: The word slave is used of important Old Testament leaders of God’s people, such as Moses (2 Kgs 18:12), Joshua (Josh 24:29), Elijah (2 Kgs 10:10), and David (2 Sam 7:8). The title underscores Paul’s complete subservience to Christ as Lord. • sent out (literally set apart): Paul may be alluding to being set apart by God for his mission before he was born, as the prophet Jeremiah was (Jer 1:5). He may also be referring to God’s call at the time of his Damascus Road conversion (Acts 9:15-16; cp. Acts 13:2), to preach the Good News to Jews and especially to Gentiles. • The Good News, or “gospel,” is a recurrent topic in the opening of the letter (Rom 1:1, 9, 15, 16). Paul takes the word from the Old Testament, where the Hebrew equivalent refers to the victory that God wins for his people (Isa 40:9; 41:27; 60:6; 61:1; Nah 1:15; see Joel 2:32).
Paul Greets the Saints in Rome
1Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God—2the gospel He promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Call of God - Part 1
By Derek Prince16K34:44MAT 4:18MAT 10:34LUK 9:57ROM 1:1ROM 1:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of responding to God's call and making commitments to Him. He shares his own experience of speaking at Pacific Asia Christian University and witnessing everyone in attendance recommitting their lives to the Lord. The speaker then discusses the brevity and directness of Jesus' call to his disciples, highlighting that they had to make a choice to either follow Him or not. The sermon also touches on the concept of God's sovereignty and the need to recognize and honor it in our relationship with Him.
Your Bible Insists on a Spirit Filled Life
By Kathryn Kuhlman10K28:10Holy SpiritROM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a spirit-filled life as instructed in the Bible. He criticizes those who mimic the ways of the devil and compromise their faith. The speaker quotes from the book of Romans, highlighting the separation believers are called to have from the world. He urges listeners to come together in unity, regardless of their religious background or race, and return to the Word of God. The sermon concludes with a prayer for a spiritual outpouring and a plea for individuals and nations to repent and seek God's face.
Who's Slave Are You?
By Paul Washer5.1K57:43EXO 20:1MAT 6:33LUK 12:15JHN 12:43ROM 1:1GAL 1:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our duties to family and church over extracurricular activities. He encourages listeners to lay down their lives for their spouses and to show respect and honor in their marriages. The preacher also highlights the responsibility of parents to shape their lives according to the will of God and to prioritize their children's well-being. He warns against the prevalent mindset of self-gratification and emphasizes the need to serve others rather than constantly seeking personal gain. The sermon draws from biblical teachings on marriage, submission, and selflessness.
Pt 8 the Drawing of the Net
By Alan Redpath3.3K37:02Kingdom Of GodMAT 13:47MAT 25:32MRK 3:14ACT 13:2ROM 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the parable of the net in the sea. He highlights the lessons to be learned from this parable, such as the authority for mass evangelism, the sanction for mission work, and the necessity for church organization. The preacher also discusses the fact of severance, explaining how the good fish are gathered into vessels while the bad fish are thrown away. The main purpose of the church, according to the preacher, is to reach people and multiply the effect of Jesus' ministry among them.
(Secret of Paul's Authority) 1. Paul Was a Bondslave
By Zac Poonen3.0K44:43AuthorityISA 64:4MAT 6:33MAT 26:39ROM 1:1ROM 8:14ROM 12:11CO 2:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living as a bond slave to Jesus Christ. He uses the example of the apostle Paul, who considered himself a bon slave of Jesus Christ. Paul's mindset was not filled with his own ideas or the suggestions of others, but he waited for his heavenly master to tell him what to do. The speaker highlights that the most important thing about a servant is to do just what the master tells them to do. The sermon encourages listeners to live in the will of God and to finish the work that He has given them to do.
God's Will for Slaves
By Paul Washer2.8K57:57SlavesMAT 6:33ROM 1:1ROM 6:16In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Romans 1:1 and emphasizes the importance of understanding our calling as Christians. He highlights the significance of being a servant of God rather than seeking self-gratification or worldly recognition. The speaker addresses the problem of self-centeredness in relationships, including marriage, and encourages listeners to prioritize God's will over their own desires. He concludes by emphasizing the need for specific knowledge of God's place in our lives and our place in His economy, and encourages the audience to seek discernment of His will through Scripture.
(Through the Bible) Romans 1-2
By Chuck Smith2.4K1:22:54Through The BibleMAT 5:20MAT 5:27ACT 9:3ROM 1:1ROM 2:17PHP 3:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the background that Paul paints in chapters 1 and 2 of Romans, setting the stage for the glorious grace of God revealed through Jesus Christ. The sinning world is deserving of God's wrath, but through Jesus, we are offered a place of fellowship and eternal life with God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and glorifying God as the creator, as opposed to becoming vain and foolish in our own imaginations. He also challenges the audience to examine their own enjoyment of sinful behaviors, such as watching soap operas or x-rated movies, and questions whether they are taking pleasure in those who do them.
Life & Times of Jesus #02
By Jack Hibbs2.3K49:53ROM 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and proclaiming the Word of God. He references Galatians 4:4-5, which speaks of God becoming a human. The preacher also mentions Romans 1:1-4, which highlights Jesus' birth through Mary and his declaration as the Son of God through the resurrection. He emphasizes the inspiration of the Bible in 2 Timothy 3:16 and encourages believers to test the spirits and discern true followers of Jesus in 1 John 4:1. The sermon concludes with the mention of God's love demonstrated through Jesus' death for sinners in Romans 5:8 and the mystery of godliness in 1 Timothy 3:16.
(Through the Bible) Philemon
By Chuck Smith2.0K57:34Through The BibleMAT 5:11ROM 1:11CO 10:312CO 4:5COL 3:17COL 3:23PHM 1:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan, even when we only see a part of the picture and cry out in dismay. He uses the example of Joseph and his father in Egypt to illustrate how God's plan is far wiser than anything we could devise. The speaker also highlights the story of Philemon and Onissimus to show that sometimes what may seem like a loss or a setback can actually be a part of God's plan to bring someone to faith. The sermon concludes with the reminder that Jesus paid it all for our sins and that we should live our lives for the glory of God.
Grace & Peace
By Don McClure1.8K49:35PSA 34:20PSA 110:1ISA 52:13ZEC 11:12MAT 26:14MAT 26:59JHN 19:33ACT 1:9ROM 1:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. He highlights how Jesus was betrayed by a close friend for 30 pieces of silver, accused by false witnesses, and mocked and struck. Despite the suffering, Jesus' sacrifice was for the sins of the world. The preacher then reads from Romans 1:1-7, emphasizing that the gospel of Jesus Christ is not something new, but rather a fulfillment of what was promised by the prophets in the Holy Scriptures.
Seven Practical Issues in Serving One Another
By Devern Fromke1.6K1:19:49Serving One AnotherMAT 6:33ROM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker encourages the audience to recognize the principles behind their actions and decisions. They pray for the audience to move beyond simply having gifts and talents, but to also allow brokenness and consecration in their lives. The speaker shares a story about counseling a troubled senior boy who had a difficult relationship with his father. They emphasize the importance of serving God and seeking direction in life. The sermon also mentions the impact of a woman named Daisy who expressed her burden for America and her willingness to give her life for revival.
The Problem of a Good God
By Paul Washer1.6K1:03:30GospelMAT 6:33MRK 16:15ROM 1:1ROM 3:23EPH 4:22HEB 1:31PE 1:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of serving God wholeheartedly and not holding back in one's commitment. He urges young people to dedicate themselves to God and to preach the gospel to the nations. The preacher also highlights the temporary nature of worldly beauty and strength, urging listeners to break away from the world and give themselves to Christ. The sermon touches on the concept of sin and the need for redemption through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the importance of living a biblically grounded life.
1 Peter 1; Minneapolis Conference
By Bob Bruton1.1K44:23ConferenceMAT 6:33ACT 1:1ROM 1:11PE 1:3REV 22:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of witnessing and sharing the word of God with others. He emphasizes the power of a transformed life as a testimony to the world. The speaker believes that God gives everyone at least one chance to be saved, and it is up to the individual to accept or reject it. He encourages believers to let their lives shine as a witness and to reflect the victory of a Christian life. The sermon also includes a personal story about the speaker's father's conversion to Christianity after many years of not knowing Christ.
The Dynamite of God
By Ian Paisley1.0K34:21ROM 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of the gospel to shatter sin and its lies. Sin is portrayed as a relentless and unbeatable enemy that leads sinners to hell. However, the preacher highlights that the gospel has the ability to cut through sin and deception. The sermon references biblical stories such as the earthquake in Acts 16 and the transformation of Jericho through Philip's preaching to illustrate the power of the gospel. The preacher concludes by urging listeners to accept Christ and experience the transformative power of the gospel in their lives.
Introduction to Romans
By Don McClure99656:40GEN 1:1PSA 40:6MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 1:1EPH 2:8HEB 10:5In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the first verse of chapter one in the book of Romans. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the Christian life and how to live it. They highlight the concept of being a servant of Jesus Christ and being called and separated for the gospel of God. The speaker also discusses the idea of surrendering one's life to God and becoming a slave to His love and power.
Temptation and Sin
By Paris Reidhead84156:28SinMAT 22:39JHN 13:34ROM 1:1ROM 15:13GAL 4:41JN 3:241JN 4:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not giving any place to the devil, as stated in Ephesians 4:27. He explains that if we give the devil an opportunity, he will take it. The preacher uses the analogy of living inside a yard with a high-board fence to illustrate how we should protect ourselves from the devil's influence. He then shares a personal story of sassing his mother and how she reminded him of his Christian identity, highlighting the need for self-control and obedience. The sermon also briefly mentions the teaching and preaching of Charles Wesley and the theme of "So Great Salvation," touching on topics such as awakening, conviction, repentance, faith, the new birth, and the witness of the Spirit.
(Romans) Paul's Calling
By Brian Brodersen78438:57ROM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing the spiritual world that exists alongside the physical world we live in. He encourages listeners to become bond servants of God, surrendering themselves to His will and purpose for their lives. The speaker shares his own journey of discovering his calling as a pastor and teacher, highlighting that God has a unique plan for each individual. He then turns to the book of Romans, specifically focusing on verse 1, where Paul introduces himself as a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle. The speaker concludes by affirming his belief that God has a specific plan for every person and encourages listeners to seek and fulfill that purpose.
Missionary Meetings 02 Calling to the Congo
By William A. Deans67946:05ROM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of every believer being a debtor to share the word of life and proclaim the gospel. He shares his personal experience of how his family sold their possessions and went to Africa as missionaries, despite being poorly informed about the mission field. The speaker also highlights the role of his father in preaching the gospel to colored people in the Panama Canal zone. He concludes by reading from Romans 1:1-17, emphasizing the power of the gospel and the grace received through Christ.
Obedience and Commitment
By George Verwer61722:51ObedienceMAT 6:33MRK 1:17MRK 2:14ROM 1:1ROM 12:1The video in the sermon transcript is about the importance of total commitment to Jesus Christ, especially in regards to world mission. The speaker acknowledges that some people may be resistant or fearful of responding to an invitation due to past experiences or confusion. The devil is portrayed as a specialist in selling fraud and bringing doubt. The speaker emphasizes the need for a deeper commitment to Christ and the importance of spreading the message of the Gospel through films, particularly in languages that are often overlooked.
The Sun Is Setting - Part 3
By K.P. Yohannan49613:30FellowshipJHN 12:27ROM 1:1HEB 5:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that we are living in the last days and the return of the Lord is imminent. He encourages believers to live with a sense of urgency and to be fully committed to the Lord. The speaker uses the example of the apostle Paul, who demonstrated unconditional surrender and obedience to God's will. He highlights the importance of hearing God's voice and following His direction, even if it means going against our own plans and desires.
The Sun Is Setting - Part 4
By K.P. Yohannan47713:30FellowshipACT 27:23ROM 1:1In this sermon, Dr. K.P. O'Hannon discusses the importance of being committed to Christ and surrendering to God's will. He emphasizes the need to spend time with God rather than just studying the Bible. Paul's ultimate desire was to see Jesus face to face, and this drove him to give up everything for the sake of the gospel. Dr. O'Hannon also warns against the danger of becoming self-centered in ministry and highlights the importance of being obedient to God and allowing Him to change the world through us.
Faith (Romans)
By G.W. North1861:23:52FaithISA 53:6MAT 6:33ROM 1:1ROM 3:3ROM 16:25In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging the challenge of condensing multiple messages into one. He emphasizes the importance of being called by God into ministry and the need to act on the truth that is preached. The speaker then delves into the book of Romans, highlighting the concept of God's gracious act of sending His son to bear the iniquity of humanity. He emphasizes that the gospel is good news because it declares that this work is already done, and that unbelief is the greatest sin. The power of the gospel is emphasized, with the speaker urging listeners to truly encounter and respond to it.
Millennial Kingdom: Identifying False Assumptions
By Mike Bickle251:02:39Millennial KingdomFalse Assumptions about HeavenROM 1:1Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of understanding the millennial kingdom, addressing common misconceptions about heaven and the nature of Christ's reign on earth. He clarifies that the millennial kingdom is a literal thousand-year reign where the natural and spiritual realms coexist, and that many false assumptions hinder believers from grasping the fullness of God's plan. Bickle encourages a paradigm shift to recognize the continuity between our current lives and our roles in the age to come, stressing the importance of prayer and righteousness in shaping the future. He challenges listeners to engage deeply with Scripture to prepare for their eternal assignments and the reality of living in a restored creation.
(The New Covenant Servant) 4. an Example for Others to Follow
By Zac Poonen0New Covenant LeadershipServanthoodMAT 11:11JHN 17:2ROM 1:11CO 11:12CO 1:42CO 6:3PHP 3:17HEB 2:171PE 2:211JN 2:6Zac Poonen emphasizes the transformative nature of the new covenant, highlighting that while John the Baptist was the greatest prophet of the old covenant, even the least in the new covenant can achieve greater heights. He explains that Jesus serves as our ultimate example of servanthood, calling us to lead others towards the Divine nature rather than merely ruling over them. Poonen stresses the importance of personal sanctification and the necessity for leaders to be examples in speech, love, faith, and purity, urging that true ministry comes from overcoming personal trials and leading others to do the same. He warns against the dangers of seeking human approval and emphasizes the need for humility, likening true leadership to that of a child. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the essence of servanthood as bondslaves of Christ, free from the desire for material gain or recognition.
(The Lord and His Church) 9. the Faithful Church
By Zac Poonen0MAT 10:28LUK 21:18JHN 17:23ROM 1:1ROM 16:201TI 3:162TI 2:8JAS 1:41PE 2:22REV 3:7Zac Poonen preaches on the message to the church in Philadelphia, emphasizing the significance of Jesus as the holy and true One with the key of David, who opens doors no one can shut. He highlights the importance of holiness and authenticity in believers, pointing to Jesus as the ultimate example of overcoming sin and Satan. Poonen stresses that as followers of Christ, we must trust in God to open the right doors for us and close those that lead us astray, illustrating this with the story of Jonah. He commends the church in Philadelphia for their obedience and perseverance, assuring them of God's protection during trials and encouraging them to hold fast to their faith until His return.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ - The word δουλος, which we translate servant, properly means a slave, one who is the entire property of his master; and is used here by the apostle with great propriety. He felt he was not his own, and that his life and powers belonged to his heavenly owner, and that he had no right to dispose of or employ them but in the strictest subserviency to the will of his Lord. In this sense, and in this spirit, he is the willing slave of Jesus Christ; and this is, perhaps, the highest character which any soul of man can attain on this side eternity. "I am wholly the Lord's; and wholly devoted in the spirit of sacrificial obedience, to the constant, complete, and energetic performance of the Divine will." A friend of God is high; a son of God is higher; but the servant, or, in the above sense, the slave of God, is higher than all; - in a word, he is a person who feels he has no property in himself, and that God is all and in all. Called to be an apostle - The word αποστολος, apostle, from αποστελλειν, to send, signifies simply a messenger or envoy; one sent on a confidential errand: but here it means an extraordinary messenger; one sent by God himself to deliver the most important message on behalf of his Maker; - in a word, one sent by the Divine authority to preach the Gospel to the nations. The word κλητος, called, signifies here the same as constituted, and should be joined with αποστολος, as it is in the Greek, and translated thus: Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, constituted an apostle, etc. This sense the word called has in many places of the sacred writings; e. g. Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed on us, that we should be called, κληθωμεν, Constituted, or made the sons of God. As it is likely that no apostle had been employed in founding the Church of Rome, and there was need of much authority to settle the matters that were there in dispute, it was necessary he should show them that he derived his authority from God, and was immediately delegated by him to preach and write as he was now doing. Separated unto the Gospel - Set apart and appointed to this work, and to this only; as the Israelites were separate from all the people of the earth, to be the servants of God: see Lev 20:26. St. Paul may here refer to his former state as a Pharisee, which literally signifies a separatist, or one separated. Before he was separated unto the service of his own sect; now he is separated unto the Gospel of God. On the word Gospel, and its meaning, see the preface to the notes on St. Matthew; and for the meaning of the word Pharisee, see the same Gospel, Mat 3:7 (note).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ,.... The name of the author of this epistle is Paul, who formerly was called Saul. Some think his name was changed upon his own conversion; others, upon the conversion of the Roman deputy Sergius Paulus, Act 13:7; others, that he was so called from the littleness of his stature; but rather it should seem that he had two names, which was usual with the Jews; one by which they went among the Gentiles, and another by they were called in their own land; See Gill on Act 13:9. "A servant of Jesus Christ"; not a servant of sin, nor of Satan, nor of man, nor of Moses and his law, nor of the traditions of the elders, but of Jesus Christ; and not by creation only, but by redemption, and by powerful efficacious grace in conversion; which is no ways contrary to true liberty; nor a disgraceful, but a most honourable character; and which chiefly regards him as a minister of the Gospel: called to be an apostle: an apostle was one that was immediately sent by Christ, and had his authority and doctrine directly from him, and had a power of working miracles from him, in confirmation of the truth of his mission, authority, and doctrine; all which were to be found in the author of this epistle, who did not thrust himself into this office, or take this honour to himself, of which he always judged himself unworthy, but was "called" to it according to the will, and by the grace of God: separated unto the Gospel of God. This may regard either God's eternal purpose concerning him, his preordination of him from eternity to be a preacher of the Gospel, to which he was separated from his mother's womb, Gal 1:15; or the separation of him to that work made by the order of the Spirit of God, Act 13:2. The phrase used is either in allusion to the priests and Levites, who were separated from their brethren the children of Israel, to their sacred employments; or rather to the apostle's having been "a Pharisee", which signifies "one separated", as he was now; only with this difference, before he was separated to the law, but now "to the Gospel", to preach and defend it, which he did with all faithfulness and integrity; the excellency of which Gospel is signified by its being called "the Gospel of God": he is the author of it; his grace is the subject of it; and he it is who commits it to men, qualifies them for the preaching of it, and succeeds them in it.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In this paragraph we have, I. The person who writes the epistle described (Rom 1:1): Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ; this is his title of honour, which he glories in, not as the Jewish teachers, Rabbi, Rabbi; but a servant, a more immediate attendant, a steward in the house. Called to be an apostle. Some think he alludes to his old name Saul, which signifies one called for, or enquired after: Christ sought him to make an apostle of him, Act 9:15. He here builds his authority upon his call; he did not run without sending, as the false apostles did; klētos apostolos - called an apostle, as if this were the name he would be called by, though he acknowledged himself not meet to be called so, Co1 15:9. Separated to the gospel of God. The Pharisees had their name from separation, because they separated themselves to the study of the law, and might be called aphōrismenoi eis ton nomon; such a one Paul had formerly been; but now he had changed his studies, was aphōrismenos eis to Euangelion, a gospel Pharisee, separated by the counsel of God (Gal 1:15), separated from his mother's womb, by an immediate direction of the Spirit, and a regular ordination according to that direction (Act 13:2, Act 13:3), by a dedication of himself to this work. He was an entire devotee to the gospel of God, the gospel which has God for its author, the origin and extraction of it divine and heavenly. II. Having mentioned the gospel of God, he digresses, to give us an encomium of it. 1. The antiquity of it. It was promised before (Rom 1:2); it was no novel upstart doctrine, but of ancient standing in the promises and prophecies of the old Testament, which did all unanimously point at the gospel, the morning-beams that ushered in the sun of righteousness; this not by word of mouth only, but in the scriptures. 2. The subject-matter of it: it is concerning Christ, Rom 1:3, Rom 1:4. The prophets and apostles all bear witness to him; he is the true treasure hid in the field of the scriptures. Observe, When Paul mentions Christ, how he heaps up his names and titles, his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, as one that took a pleasure in speaking of him; and, having mentioned him, he cannot go on in his discourse without some expression of love and honour, as here, where in one person he shows us his two distinct natures. (1.) His human nature: Made of the seed of David (Rom 1:3), that is, born of the virgin Mary, who was of the house of David (Luk 1:27), as was Joseph his supposed father, Luk 2:4. David is here mentioned, because of the special promises made to him concerning the Messiah, especially his kingly office; Sa2 7:12; Psa 132:11, compared with Luk 1:32, Luk 1:33. (2.) His divine nature: Declared to be the Son of God (Rom 1:4), the Son of God by eternal generation, or, as it is here explained, according to the Spirit of holiness. According to the flesh, that is, his human nature, he was of the seed of David; but, according to the Spirit of holiness, that is, the divine nature (as he is said to be quickened by the Spirit, Pe1 3:18, compared with Co2 13:4), he is the Son of God. The great proof or demonstration of this is his resurrection from the dead, which proved it effectually and undeniably. The sign of the prophet Jonas, Christ's resurrection, was intended for the last conviction, Mat 12:39, Mat 12:40. Those that would not be convinced by that would be convinced by nothing. So that we have here a summary of the gospel doctrine concerning Christ's two natures in one person. 3. The fruit of it (Rom 1:5); By whom, that is, by Christ manifested and made known in the gospel, we (Paul and the rest of the ministers) have received grace and apostleship, that is, the favour to be made apostles, Eph 3:8. The apostles were made a spectacle to the world, led a life of toil, and trouble, and hazard, were killed all the day long, and yet Paul reckons the apostleship a favour: we may justly reckon it a great favour to be employed in any work or service for God, whatever difficulties or dangers we may meet with in it. This apostleship was received for obedience to the faith, that is, to bring people to that obedience; as Christ, so his ministers, received that they might give. Paul's was for this obedience among all nations, for he was the apostle of the Gentiles, Rom 11:13. Observe the description here given of the Christian profession: it is obedience to the faith. It does not consist in a notional knowledge or a naked assent, much less does it consist in perverse disputings, but in obedience. This obedience to the faith answers the law of faith, mentioned Rom 3:27. The act of faith is the obedience of the understanding to God revealing, and the product of that is the obedience of the will to God commanding. To anticipate the ill use which might be made of the doctrine of justification by faith without the works of the law, which he was to explain in the following epistle, he here speaks of Christianity as an obedience. Christ has a yoke. "Among whom are you, Rom 1:6. You Romans in this stand upon the same level with other Gentile nations of less fame and wealth; you are all one in Christ." The gospel salvation is a common salvation, Jde 1:3. No respect of persons with God. The called of Jesus Christ; all those, and those only, are brought to an obedience of the faith that are effectually called of Jesus Christ. III. The persons to whom it is written (Rom 1:7): To all that are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints; that is, to all the professing Christians that were in Rome, whether Jews or Gentiles originally, whether high or low, bond or free, learned or unlearned. Rich and poor meet together in Christ Jesus. Here is, 1. The privilege of Christians: They are beloved of God, they are members of that body which is beloved, which is God's Hephzibah, in which his delight is. We speak of God's love by his bounty and beneficence, and so he hath a common love to all mankind and a peculiar love for true believers; and between these there is a love he hath for all the body of visible Christians. 2. The duty of Christians; and that is to be holy, for hereunto are they called, called to be saints, called to salvation through sanctification. Saints, and only saints, are beloved of God with a special and peculiar love. Klētois hagiois - called saints, saints in profession; it were well if all that are called saints were saints indeed. Those that are called saints should labour to answer to the name; otherwise, though it is an honour and a privilege, yet it will be of little avail at the great day to have been called saints, if we be not really so. IV. The apostolical benediction (Rom 1:7): Grace to you and peace. This is one of the tokens in every epistle; and it hath not only the affection of a good wish, but the authority of a blessing. The priests under the law were to bless the people, and so are gospel ministers, in the name of the Lord. In this usual benediction observe, 1. The favours desired: Grace and peace. The Old Testament salutation was, Peace be to you; but now grace is prefixed - grace, that is, the favour of God towards us or the work of God in us; both are previously requisite to true peace. All gospel blessings are included in these two: grace and peace. Peace, that is all good; peace with God, peace in your own consciences, peace with all that are about you; all these founded in grace. 2. The fountain of those favours, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. All good comes, (1.) From God as a Father; he hath put himself into that relation to engage and encourage our desires and expectations; we are taught, when we come for grace and peace, to call him our Father. (2.) From the Lord Jesus Christ, as Mediator, and the great feoffee in trust for the conveying and securing of these benefits. We have them from his fulness, peace from the fulness of his merit, grace from the fulness of his Spirit.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:1-17 These verses contain the normal features of New Testament letter introductions: an identification of the writer (1:1-6) and readers (1:7), a thanksgiving (1:8-15), and the theme of the letter (1:16-17). 1:1 slave of Christ Jesus: The word slave is used of important Old Testament leaders of God’s people, such as Moses (2 Kgs 18:12), Joshua (Josh 24:29), Elijah (2 Kgs 10:10), and David (2 Sam 7:8). The title underscores Paul’s complete subservience to Christ as Lord. • sent out (literally set apart): Paul may be alluding to being set apart by God for his mission before he was born, as the prophet Jeremiah was (Jer 1:5). He may also be referring to God’s call at the time of his Damascus Road conversion (Acts 9:15-16; cp. Acts 13:2), to preach the Good News to Jews and especially to Gentiles. • The Good News, or “gospel,” is a recurrent topic in the opening of the letter (Rom 1:1, 9, 15, 16). Paul takes the word from the Old Testament, where the Hebrew equivalent refers to the victory that God wins for his people (Isa 40:9; 41:27; 60:6; 61:1; Nah 1:15; see Joel 2:32).