Romans 1:4
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And declared to be the Son of God - See the note on Act 13:33, where this subject is considered at large. The word ορισθεντος, which we render declared, comes from οριζω, to bound, define, determine, or limit, and hence our word horizon, the line that determines the farthest visible part of the earth, in reference to the heavens. In this place the word signifies such a manifest and complete exhibition of the subject as to render it indubitable. The resurrection of Christ from the dead was such a manifest proof of our Lord's innocence, the truth of his doctrine, and the fulfillment of all that the prophets had spoken, as to leave no doubt on any considerate and candid mind. With power - εν δυναμει, With a miraculous display of Divine energy; for, how could his body be raised again, but by the miraculous energy of God? Some apply the word here to the proof of Christ's sonship; as if it were said that he was most manifestly declared to be the Son of God, with such powerful evidence and argument as to render the truth irresistible. According to the spirit of holiness - There are many differences of sentiment relative to the meaning of this phrase in this place; some supposing that the spirit of holiness implies the Divine nature of Jesus Christ; others, his immaculate sanctity, etc. To me it seems that the apostle simply means that the person called Jesus, lately crucified at Jerusalem, and in whose name salvation was preached to the world, was the Son of God, the very Messiah promised before in the holy Scriptures; and that he was this Messiah was amply demonstrated. 1st, By his resurrection from the dead, the irrefragable proof of his purity, innocence, and the Divine approbation; for, had he been a malefactor, as the Jews pretended, the miraculous power of God would not have been exerted in raising his body from the dead. 2nd, He was proved to be the Son of God, the promised Messiah, by the Holy Spirit, (called here the spirit of holiness), which he sent down upon his apostles, and not on them only, but on all that believed on his name; by whose influence multitudes were convinced of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and multitudes sanctified unto God; and it was by the peculiar unction of this spirit of holiness, that the apostles gave witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, Act 4:33. Thus, then, Christ was proved to be the true Messiah, the son of David according to the flesh, having the sole right to the throne of Israel; and God recognized this character, and this right, by his resurrection from the dead, and sending forth the various gifts and graces of the Spirit of holiness in his name.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And declared--literally, "marked off," "defined," "determined," that is, "shown," or "proved." to be the Son of God--Observe how studiously the language changes here. He "was MADE [says the apostle] of the seed of David, according to the flesh" (Rom 1:3); but He was not made, He was only "declared [or proved] to BE the Son of God." So Joh 1:1, Joh 1:14, "In the beginning WAS the Word . . . and the Word was MADE flesh"; and Isa 9:6, "Unto us a Child is BORN, unto us a Son is GIVEN." Thus the Sonship of Christ is in no proper sense a born relationship to the Father, as some, otherwise sound divines, conceive of it. By His birth in the flesh, that Sonship, which was essential and uncreated, merely effloresced into palpable manifestation. (See on Luk 1:35; Act 13:32-33). with power--This may either be connected with "declared," and then the meaning will be "powerfully declared" [LUTHER, BEZA, BENGEL, FRITZSCHE, ALFORD, &c.]; or (as in our version, and as we think rightly) with "the Son of God," and then the sense is, "declared to be the Son of God" in possession of that "power" which belonged to Him as the only-begotten of the Father, no longer shrouded as in the days of His flesh, but "by His resurrection from the dead" gloriously displayed and henceforth to be for ever exerted in this nature of ours [Vulgate, CALVIN, HODGE, PHILIPPI, MEHRING, &c.]. according to the spirit of holiness--If "according to the flesh" means here, "in His human nature," this uncommon expression must mean "in His other nature," which we have seen to be that "of the Son of God"--an eternal, uncreated nature. This is here styled the "spirit," as an impalpable and immaterial nature (Joh 4:24), and "the spirit of holiness," probably in absolute contrast with that "likeness, of sinful flesh" which He assumed. One is apt to wonder that if this be the meaning, it was not expressed more simply. But if the apostle had said "He was declared to be the Son of God according to the Holy Spirit," the reader would have thought he meant "the Holy Ghost"; and it seems to have been just to avoid this misapprehension that he used the rare expression, "the spirit of holiness."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And declared to be the Son of God,.... Not made as he is said to be before, when his incarnation is spoken of; nor did he begin to be the Son of God, when he was made of the seed of David, but he, the Son of God, who existed as such, from everlasting, was manifested in the flesh, or human nature: and this his divine sonship, and proper deity, are declared and made evident, with, or "by" his power; which has appeared in the creation of all things out of nothing; in upholding all things in their beings; in the government of the world, and works of Providence; in the miracles he wrought; in his performing the great work of redemption; in the success of his Gospel, to the conversion of sinners; and in the preservation of his churches and people: here it seems chiefly to regard the power of Christ in raising the dead, since it follows, and which is to be connected with this clause, by the resurrection from the dead; and designs either the resurrection of others, as of Lazarus, and some other persons, in his lifetime, and of some at his resurrection, and of all at the last day: or the resurrection of his own body, which dying he had power to raise up again, and did; and which declared him to be, or clearly made it appear that he was the Son of God, a divine person, truly and properly God: and this was done according to the Spirit of holiness; which may be understood of the Holy Spirit, the third person in the Trinity, who is holy in himself, and the author of holiness in the saints; and who is the declarer of Christ's sonship, partly by bearing a testimony to it in the word, and in the hearts of believers, and chiefly by being concerned in the resurrection of the body of Christ from the dead; or else by the Spirit of holiness may be meant the divine nature of Christ, which, as it is holy, so by it Christ offered himself to God, and by it was quickened, or made alive, when he had been put to death in the flesh; and which must be a clear and strong proof of his being truly the Son of God.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:4 he was shown to be: Although Jesus eternally existed as the Son of God (1:3), his resurrection demonstrated him to be God’s Son, revealing him in all his power and glory.
Romans 1:4
Paul Greets the Saints in Rome
3regarding His Son, who was a descendant of David according to the flesh,4and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Water Baptism - Part 2
By Derek Prince7.6K23:31Water BaptismMAT 6:33ACT 2:38ROM 1:4ROM 6:41CO 15:3COL 2:121PE 3:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of water baptism as a representation of the gospel message. He explains that the gospel is centered on the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as stated in 1 Corinthians 15. Water baptism symbolizes our acceptance of these truths and our identification with Christ through faith. The preacher highlights that through baptism, we declare that we are dead to sin and have been raised to newness of life, just as Jesus was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. He encourages believers to continually reckon themselves dead to sin and live in the reality of their new life in Christ.
Sons and Daughters of God
By Art Katz3.8K57:17SonshipMAT 6:33ROM 1:4ROM 8:14ROM 8:17ROM 8:29In this sermon, the speaker discusses the impending collapse of present civilization and the chaos that is taking place in the world. They emphasize the importance of priestly ministers who can provide guidance and peace in the midst of distress. The speaker also talks about the process of forsaking earthly things and the pain that comes with it. They reference verses from the Bible, including Romans 8, to highlight the role of the Spirit of God and the suffering that believers may experience.
Born, Yet Not Begotten
By Major Ian Thomas1.4K1:10:30SalvationTransformation in ChristDivine LifeJHN 6:53JHN 7:38JHN 14:19ACT 13:30ROM 1:4ROM 10:4EPH 2:1COL 1:18HEB 5:82PE 1:4Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the profound truth that Jesus Christ is not only our Redeemer but also our life, highlighting the necessity of being born again to receive divine life through the Holy Spirit. He explains that while Jesus lived a sinless life, it was His death and resurrection that allowed believers to partake in that same life, transforming them from mere existence to true spiritual vitality. Thomas stresses that being a Christian involves a continuous process of faith and dependence on Christ, leading to a life that reflects His character and power. He warns against living a nominal Christian life, which lacks the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, and encourages believers to allow Christ's life to manifest through them. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of what it means to be both born and begotten in Christ, urging believers to live out their faith in a way that is only explicable through Jesus.
The Cross of Christ - Part 3
By Paul Washer1.1K1:03:06Cross of ChristPSA 2:6ACT 2:25ACT 2:36ROM 1:4ROM 4:25In this sermon, the speaker uses an ancient Greek cultural reference to illustrate the biblical gospel of Jesus Christ. He describes a scenario where a small, powerless nation receives news of an army intent on destroying them. The people anxiously wait for updates, knowing that if their army loses, they will lose everything. The speaker then transitions to discussing the concept of judgment and the deceptive nature of human standards. He references passages from the book of Daniel and the book of Revelation to emphasize the idea of divine justice and the consequences for those who oppose God.
Intercessory Prayer
By Glenn Matthews9071:26:571KI 17:11KI 17:17MAT 6:33ROM 1:4ROM 4:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses four principles that can be found in the letter to the Church of Rome. The first principle is involvement, emphasizing the importance of getting involved with others. The second principle is inquiry, urging listeners to inquire and seek understanding. The third principle is identification or intensity, highlighting the need for deep commitment and passion. The fourth principle is importunity, emphasizing the importance of persistent prayer. The preacher also shares a story about a woman named Clara Chapman and her unwavering faith. The sermon concludes with a discussion on the need to deal with sin honestly and seek forgiveness from God. The preacher references the story of Elijah and his actions on the mountain. The sermon encourages listeners to trust in God's power and to be persistent in their prayers.
Growing in the Grace of God #10 - the Resurrection Covenant Part 2
By Bob Hoekstra69044:50MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 1:42CO 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of relying on God rather than trying to manipulate situations. The focus is on the power of God and the hope that comes from knowing Him. The speaker references Romans 1:4, highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit in the resurrection of Jesus and its connection to justification and sanctification. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of knowing God through the power of His resurrection, the fellowship of His sufferings, and being conformed to His death.
God's Mighty Power Demonstrated
By Tim Conway56653:24ACT 2:24ROM 1:4EPH 1:19EPH 3:20PHP 3:10COL 2:11This sermon delves into Ephesians 1, focusing on the power of God's resurrection demonstrated in Christ and its impact on believers. The Apostle Paul emphasizes the unity of believers with Christ, being raised together with Him and seated in heavenly places. The sermon highlights the immeasurable greatness of God's power towards those who believe, drawing parallels between Christ's resurrection and the power at work within believers, leading to victory and overcoming in life.
The Sevenfold Beauty of Jesus Ruling the Earth
By Mike Bickle241:02:01Spiritual WarfareThe Humanity of ChristPSA 115:16ISA 33:17ISA 44:2MRK 9:24LUK 4:6ROM 1:4EPH 3:161TI 3:16REV 5:12REV 21:3Mike Bickle explores the profound significance of Revelation 5, emphasizing the sevenfold beauty of Jesus as He rules the earth. He highlights that Jesus, fully God and fully man, is worthy to receive power, riches, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and blessing, not just as God but as an anointed human. This understanding inspires a deeper adoration and loyalty towards Jesus, as He is the only one capable of fulfilling the divine plan to cleanse the earth and invite the Father back. Bickle encourages believers to recognize the implications of Jesus' humanity and His role in spiritual warfare against the Antichrist, asserting that the declaration of His worthiness is a powerful tool in the hands of the Church.
The Valley Exalted, and the Mountain Laid Low
By J.C. Philpot2PSA 40:2PSA 88:4ISA 40:4MAT 3:1JHN 16:9ACT 17:31ROM 1:42CO 4:6PHP 1:22REV 20:12J.C. Philpot preaches on the prophecy from Isaiah 40:4-5, emphasizing the figurative language of obstacles being removed for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. He delves into the spiritual and experiential exalting of valleys, making low mountains, straightening crooked paths, and smoothing rough places to reveal the glory of the Lord. Philpot highlights the need for a revelation of Christ to the soul to bring comfort, peace, and solid ground for faith. He assures that all obstacles will be overcome, all flesh will see the glory of the Lord, and God's promises will surely come to pass.
Rivers of Living Water
By Andrew Murray1Living WaterHoly SpiritISA 44:3EZK 47:1JHN 3:16JHN 4:14JHN 7:38ROM 1:4HEB 9:14Andrew Murray emphasizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life, as illustrated by Jesus' promise of 'rivers of living water' flowing from those who believe in Him. He explains that this living water represents the Holy Spirit, which was not yet given until Christ's glorification. To experience this divine flow, believers must maintain a deep connection with Christ through faith and surrender, allowing the Spirit to work within them. Murray encourages Christians to drink from this living water, which not only revives them but also empowers them to share it with others, leading to spiritual renewal and belief in Christ. Ultimately, he calls for an uninterrupted union with Christ to sustain the new life in the Spirit.
Of the Distinct Personality, and Deity of the Son.
By John Gill0TrinityDeity Of ChristISA 9:6MAT 28:19JHN 1:1JHN 5:22JHN 10:30ROM 1:4COL 2:9HEB 1:31JN 2:1REV 1:8John Gill emphasizes the distinct personality and deity of the Son of God, asserting that He is a divine person, separate from the Father and the Holy Spirit. He argues that the Son is the express image of the Father, possessing all divine attributes and performing divine works, such as creation and redemption. Gill supports his claims with scriptural references, demonstrating that the Son's role as mediator, advocate, and judge further affirms His distinct personality and divine nature. He concludes that the worship and honor given to the Son are indicative of His true divinity, as He is to be worshipped alongside the Father. This sermon serves to clarify the essential Christian belief in the Trinity and the nature of Christ as both fully God and fully man.
The Gospel Miracles
By F.F Bruce0ISA 35:5MRK 11:22JHN 20:31ROM 1:4HEB 6:5F.F. Bruce delves into the credibility of miracle stories in the Gospels, emphasizing the importance of understanding them in the context of Jesus' character and the significance of His resurrection. He highlights that the miracles are signs of divine power and should be viewed as object lessons of the kingdom of God, challenging believers to have faith in God as revealed in Christ. Bruce explains that the miracles, whether healing or nature-related, signify the messianic age and the power of God at work, ultimately pointing to the resurrection of Christ as the greatest miracle of all.
Holy and Righteous All the Days of His Life
By G.W. North0HolinessRighteousnessJHN 14:16ROM 1:4ROM 8:112CO 5:21GAL 5:22EPH 1:13PHP 3:10HEB 4:151PE 1:151JN 3:9G.W. North emphasizes the holiness and righteousness of Jesus Christ throughout His life and death, illustrating how His perfect life qualified Him to conquer sin and death. He explains that Jesus' resurrection was a testament to His righteousness, proving that He was fit to bear the sins of the world and rise again. North highlights that God's ultimate desire is for humanity to transition from sin to righteousness through the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live holy lives. The sermon underscores that the holiness of God permeates the entire plan of redemption, affirming that Jesus was both born and raised in holiness. Ultimately, the message calls for believers to embrace the Spirit of Holiness to reflect the life of Christ within them.
1 John 5:6
By John Gill0The Manifestation of ChristThe Role of the Holy SpiritMAT 3:17JHN 1:29JHN 14:17JHN 16:13JHN 19:34ACT 5:32ROM 1:4HEB 9:121JN 1:71JN 5:6John Gill expounds on 1 John 5:6, emphasizing that Jesus Christ came by both water and blood, signifying His baptism and sacrificial death. He clarifies that the 'water' refers to the ordinance of baptism, which revealed Christ as the Son of God, while the 'blood' signifies His atoning sacrifice for humanity's sins. Gill highlights that Christ's manifestation as the Son of God was evident not only at His baptism but also at His crucifixion, where His blood cleanses from sin. The sermon also discusses the role of the Holy Spirit as a witness to Christ's divine nature and truth. Ultimately, Gill underscores the importance of recognizing Jesus as the embodiment of truth through the Spirit.
Ascension of Christ
By George G. Findlay0Ascension of ChristDivine AuthorityMRK 16:19LUK 24:51JHN 14:2JHN 20:17ACT 1:9ROM 1:4EPH 1:20PHP 2:9COL 3:1HEB 7:26George G. Findlay emphasizes the significance of Christ's ascension as a divine affirmation of His identity as the Son of God. He explains that Jesus' ascension completes the resurrection and serves as a final confirmation of His supernatural life and authority. Findlay reflects on the calmness of this event, portraying it as a natural return to His heavenly origin, akin to a son returning home after completing his tasks. The sermon highlights that Jesus' departure was not just an end but a transition back to the Father, fulfilling His mission on earth. The promise of His return is also underscored, reminding believers of the hope that lies in His ascension.
The Resurrection
By J.C. Philpot0MAT 17:1LUK 24:39JHN 10:17JHN 20:27ACT 1:3ROM 1:4ROM 4:25ROM 8:111PE 3:18J.C. Philpot preaches on the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ, emphasizing its pivotal role in establishing the Christian faith. The apostles, inspired by the Holy Ghost, consistently proclaimed the resurrection as the foundation of their sermons, as it validated Jesus as the Son of God and the Messiah. The resurrection served as God's attesting witness to Jesus' divine Sonship and the acceptance of His atoning sacrifice, ensuring the church's justification. The sermon also highlights the identity of Jesus' risen body, refuting erroneous speculations and confirming through various appearances that it was the same body that was crucified, thus solidifying the truth of the resurrection.
Easter: The Message of Redemption, Reconciliation, Restoration and Resurrection
By Bishop M.A. Lalachan0MAT 16:21JHN 11:25JHN 14:6JHN 14:19ROM 1:4ROM 6:9ROM 8:10ROM 14:91CO 15:17EPH 2:6Bishop M.A. Lalachan preaches about the significance of Jesus Christ as the meeting place of eternity and time, blending deity and humanity, and uniting heaven and earth. The resurrection of Jesus is a historical fact supported by various sources, setting Christianity apart from other beliefs. The evidence of Christ's resurrection is undeniable, fulfilling His prediction and confirming His identity as the Son of God. The resurrection of Jesus transformed lives, offering hope, restoration, and eternal life to believers, showcasing His power over sin and death.
"In the Likeness of His Resurrection"
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual GrowthResurrectionACT 4:25ACT 13:33ROM 1:4HEB 1:5HEB 2:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of resurrection throughout Scripture, asserting that all divine matters find their new beginning through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He highlights that the resurrection serves as the ultimate attestation of Christ's Sonship, marking Him as the 'firstborn from the dead' and establishing a vital principle in Christian experience: true life emerges from death. Sparks illustrates this through biblical examples, such as Isaac and the experiences of believers, showing that spiritual growth often involves cycles of death and resurrection. He concludes by affirming that living in the power of resurrection life transcends natural limitations, urging believers to depend solely on the life of Christ for spiritual effectiveness.
The Nature of Sonship
By T. Austin-Sparks0ISA 54:17LUK 18:8JHN 1:13JHN 3:6JHN 5:19ROM 1:4GAL 4:6PHP 2:6HEB 6:1T. Austin-Sparks delves into the essence of 'the faith' as the unique nature of Divine sonship, emphasizing the continuous growth and maturity in the Spirit as the true mark of Christianity. He explores the question posed in Luke 18:8, 'When the Son of man cometh, shall he find the faith on the earth?' not in terms of a Christian system of doctrine, but as a search for genuine spiritual growth and maturity in believers. Sonship is portrayed as something exclusively of God, based on resurrection, and a life in the Spirit, requiring utter dependence on God for every aspect of life.
Why I Believe That Jesus Christ Is God in Human Form
By R.A. Torrey0The Deity of ChristFaith and SurrenderISA 45:21MRK 2:5JHN 3:16JHN 5:23JHN 8:24JHN 14:9ACT 2:36ROM 1:4PHP 2:10HEB 1:6R.A. Torrey emphasizes the critical importance of recognizing Jesus Christ as God in human form, arguing that if He is not divine, then Christians are idolaters for worshiping Him. He presents compelling reasons for this belief, including Christ's unique claims, His character, the miracles He performed, His profound influence on history, and His resurrection. Torrey asserts that the Bible unequivocally supports the divinity of Christ, and he highlights the transformative power of accepting Jesus as the Son of God. He concludes with a call to acknowledge and surrender to Jesus as the Divine Savior and Lord, warning against the grave sin of rejecting Him.
Of the Concern the Spirit of God Has in the Covenant of Grace.
By John Gill0Covenant of GraceThe Role of the Holy Spirit2SA 23:5ISA 48:16MAT 1:18JHN 16:14ROM 1:42CO 4:13EPH 1:132TH 2:13TIT 3:5HEB 10:22John Gill emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in the Covenant of Grace, illustrating that the Spirit is not merely a bystander but an active participant who approves and engages in the covenant's promises and provisions for salvation. He highlights the Spirit's involvement in the incarnation of Christ, the application of salvation to believers, and the empowerment of the church through various gifts and graces. The Spirit's work includes conviction of sin, regeneration, and sanctification, all of which affirm His commitment to the covenant. Gill asserts that the Spirit's actions are a testament to His agreement with the Father and the Son in the redemptive plan. Ultimately, the sermon underscores the comprehensive nature of the Spirit's work in fulfilling God's promises to His people.
Horizoned by Resurrection
By T. Austin-Sparks0New CreationResurrectionJHN 3:8ROM 1:4ROM 6:41CO 2:101CO 15:11CO 15:121CO 15:452CO 3:172CO 5:14T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the resurrection of Christ is not only a demonstration of divine power but also establishes Him as the horizon of a new creation, transforming believers into a new order of spiritual beings. He contrasts the natural man, who is self-centered and unable to grasp spiritual truths, with the spiritual man, who is Christ-centered and empowered by the Holy Spirit. The resurrection serves as the pivotal point that shifts the focus from human wisdom and partisanship to a unified identity in Christ, highlighting the need for believers to embody the character of the risen Christ. Sparks argues that understanding the resurrection is essential for recognizing the new spiritual order and the transformative power it holds for the Church today.
The Resurrection of Christ
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0MAT 12:38MRK 8:31LUK 9:22JHN 2:19ACT 1:22ROM 1:41CO 15:31TH 4:141PE 1:3W.H. Griffith Thomas preaches on the vital importance of the Resurrection in Christianity, likening it to a strategic point on the battlefield of Waterloo that determined the final outcome. He emphasizes the centrality of the Resurrection in the Gospels and the New Testament, highlighting the converging lines of evidence supporting it, including the life and character of Jesus Christ, the empty tomb, the transformation of the disciples, the existence of the primitive Church, the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, and the record of the appearances of the risen Christ in the Gospels. Thomas challenges the skepticism towards miracles, arguing that the Resurrection is a pivotal historical fact that cannot be dismissed.
Trusting When We Cannot See
By Alan Redpath0JHN 11:25ACT 17:31ROM 1:41TH 1:101TH 5:9The preacher delves into the Greek word 'anemeno' which conveys the concept of expectant waiting, emphasizing sustained, patient, and trusting waiting for the imminent return of Jesus Christ. This word is used figuratively in 2Clement 19:4 to describe a blessed time awaiting the devout and debtors who are to pay up promptly. 'Anemeno' is used in the New Testament only once and in the Septuagint four times, highlighting the eager anticipation for justice and hope. The preacher emphasizes that 'anemeno' means more than just waiting; it signifies an active attempt to live for God's glory while expectantly awaiting the fulfillment of messianic promises in Christ's second coming.
The Spirit of Holiness
By Samuel Chadwick0JHN 14:17ROM 1:4ROM 8:21CO 6:192CO 3:18GAL 5:22EPH 5:91TH 4:3HEB 12:141PE 1:15Samuel Chadwick preaches about the significance of holiness, emphasizing its Biblical roots, necessity, and the role of the Holy Spirit in sanctifying believers. He clarifies misconceptions about holiness, highlighting its essential nature for all Christians and the need for a deliberate pursuit of sanctification. Chadwick explains that holiness is not merely a gradual growth but a transformative gift of grace through faith, distinct from maturity or achievement. He stresses that holiness is attained through the personal work of the Spirit of God, involving a unique experience for each individual, leading to a life marked by the presence and power of the Divine Spirit.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And declared to be the Son of God - See the note on Act 13:33, where this subject is considered at large. The word ορισθεντος, which we render declared, comes from οριζω, to bound, define, determine, or limit, and hence our word horizon, the line that determines the farthest visible part of the earth, in reference to the heavens. In this place the word signifies such a manifest and complete exhibition of the subject as to render it indubitable. The resurrection of Christ from the dead was such a manifest proof of our Lord's innocence, the truth of his doctrine, and the fulfillment of all that the prophets had spoken, as to leave no doubt on any considerate and candid mind. With power - εν δυναμει, With a miraculous display of Divine energy; for, how could his body be raised again, but by the miraculous energy of God? Some apply the word here to the proof of Christ's sonship; as if it were said that he was most manifestly declared to be the Son of God, with such powerful evidence and argument as to render the truth irresistible. According to the spirit of holiness - There are many differences of sentiment relative to the meaning of this phrase in this place; some supposing that the spirit of holiness implies the Divine nature of Jesus Christ; others, his immaculate sanctity, etc. To me it seems that the apostle simply means that the person called Jesus, lately crucified at Jerusalem, and in whose name salvation was preached to the world, was the Son of God, the very Messiah promised before in the holy Scriptures; and that he was this Messiah was amply demonstrated. 1st, By his resurrection from the dead, the irrefragable proof of his purity, innocence, and the Divine approbation; for, had he been a malefactor, as the Jews pretended, the miraculous power of God would not have been exerted in raising his body from the dead. 2nd, He was proved to be the Son of God, the promised Messiah, by the Holy Spirit, (called here the spirit of holiness), which he sent down upon his apostles, and not on them only, but on all that believed on his name; by whose influence multitudes were convinced of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and multitudes sanctified unto God; and it was by the peculiar unction of this spirit of holiness, that the apostles gave witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, Act 4:33. Thus, then, Christ was proved to be the true Messiah, the son of David according to the flesh, having the sole right to the throne of Israel; and God recognized this character, and this right, by his resurrection from the dead, and sending forth the various gifts and graces of the Spirit of holiness in his name.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And declared--literally, "marked off," "defined," "determined," that is, "shown," or "proved." to be the Son of God--Observe how studiously the language changes here. He "was MADE [says the apostle] of the seed of David, according to the flesh" (Rom 1:3); but He was not made, He was only "declared [or proved] to BE the Son of God." So Joh 1:1, Joh 1:14, "In the beginning WAS the Word . . . and the Word was MADE flesh"; and Isa 9:6, "Unto us a Child is BORN, unto us a Son is GIVEN." Thus the Sonship of Christ is in no proper sense a born relationship to the Father, as some, otherwise sound divines, conceive of it. By His birth in the flesh, that Sonship, which was essential and uncreated, merely effloresced into palpable manifestation. (See on Luk 1:35; Act 13:32-33). with power--This may either be connected with "declared," and then the meaning will be "powerfully declared" [LUTHER, BEZA, BENGEL, FRITZSCHE, ALFORD, &c.]; or (as in our version, and as we think rightly) with "the Son of God," and then the sense is, "declared to be the Son of God" in possession of that "power" which belonged to Him as the only-begotten of the Father, no longer shrouded as in the days of His flesh, but "by His resurrection from the dead" gloriously displayed and henceforth to be for ever exerted in this nature of ours [Vulgate, CALVIN, HODGE, PHILIPPI, MEHRING, &c.]. according to the spirit of holiness--If "according to the flesh" means here, "in His human nature," this uncommon expression must mean "in His other nature," which we have seen to be that "of the Son of God"--an eternal, uncreated nature. This is here styled the "spirit," as an impalpable and immaterial nature (Joh 4:24), and "the spirit of holiness," probably in absolute contrast with that "likeness, of sinful flesh" which He assumed. One is apt to wonder that if this be the meaning, it was not expressed more simply. But if the apostle had said "He was declared to be the Son of God according to the Holy Spirit," the reader would have thought he meant "the Holy Ghost"; and it seems to have been just to avoid this misapprehension that he used the rare expression, "the spirit of holiness."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And declared to be the Son of God,.... Not made as he is said to be before, when his incarnation is spoken of; nor did he begin to be the Son of God, when he was made of the seed of David, but he, the Son of God, who existed as such, from everlasting, was manifested in the flesh, or human nature: and this his divine sonship, and proper deity, are declared and made evident, with, or "by" his power; which has appeared in the creation of all things out of nothing; in upholding all things in their beings; in the government of the world, and works of Providence; in the miracles he wrought; in his performing the great work of redemption; in the success of his Gospel, to the conversion of sinners; and in the preservation of his churches and people: here it seems chiefly to regard the power of Christ in raising the dead, since it follows, and which is to be connected with this clause, by the resurrection from the dead; and designs either the resurrection of others, as of Lazarus, and some other persons, in his lifetime, and of some at his resurrection, and of all at the last day: or the resurrection of his own body, which dying he had power to raise up again, and did; and which declared him to be, or clearly made it appear that he was the Son of God, a divine person, truly and properly God: and this was done according to the Spirit of holiness; which may be understood of the Holy Spirit, the third person in the Trinity, who is holy in himself, and the author of holiness in the saints; and who is the declarer of Christ's sonship, partly by bearing a testimony to it in the word, and in the hearts of believers, and chiefly by being concerned in the resurrection of the body of Christ from the dead; or else by the Spirit of holiness may be meant the divine nature of Christ, which, as it is holy, so by it Christ offered himself to God, and by it was quickened, or made alive, when he had been put to death in the flesh; and which must be a clear and strong proof of his being truly the Son of God.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:4 he was shown to be: Although Jesus eternally existed as the Son of God (1:3), his resurrection demonstrated him to be God’s Son, revealing him in all his power and glory.