Romans 1:1

 

Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God—
Romans 1:1 Berean Standard Bible (BSB)
 
Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,
Romans 1:1 King James Bible (KJV)
 
From Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God.
Romans 1:1 New English Translation (NET)
 
Paul
The name "Paul" is derived from the Latin "Paulus," meaning "small" or "humble." Historically, Paul, originally named Saul, was a Pharisee and a zealous persecutor of Christians before his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). His transformation from a persecutor to a leading apostle underscores the power of God's grace and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. Paul's Roman citizenship and Jewish heritage uniquely positioned him to bridge cultural divides and spread the gospel across the Roman Empire.
 
a servant
The Greek word used here is "doulos," which means "slave" or "bondservant." This term reflects a position of complete devotion and submission. In the context of the Roman world, a servant had no rights of their own and was entirely at the disposal of their master. Paul’s use of this term signifies his total commitment and surrender to Christ Jesus, emphasizing that his life and mission are entirely dedicated to serving his Lord.
 
of Christ Jesus
This phrase identifies the object of Paul's servitude. "Christ" is the Greek "Christos," meaning "Anointed One," equivalent to the Hebrew "Messiah." "Jesus" is derived from the Hebrew "Yeshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." By identifying himself as a servant of Christ Jesus, Paul acknowledges Jesus as the promised Messiah and Savior, affirming his divine authority and mission.
 
called to be an apostle
The word "called" comes from the Greek "kletos," meaning "invited" or "appointed." This indicates a divine calling, not a self-appointed position. "Apostle" is from the Greek "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent." Paul’s apostleship was not of human origin but was divinely ordained by God. This calling underscores the authority and responsibility bestowed upon him to spread the gospel and establish churches.
 
and set apart
The Greek term "aphorismenos" means "separated" or "appointed." This phrase indicates a divine selection and consecration for a specific purpose. In the Old Testament, the concept of being set apart was often associated with holiness and dedication to God’s service. Paul’s life was distinctly marked by God for the mission of proclaiming the gospel.
 
for the gospel of God
"Gospel" is from the Greek "euangelion," meaning "good news." This good news is the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. "Of God" emphasizes the divine origin of this message. It is not a human invention but a revelation from God Himself. The gospel is central to Paul’s mission and message, highlighting the transformative power of God’s grace and the fulfillment of His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.
 
Berean Study Bible
 
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Paul - The author identifies himself as Paul, who is traditionally known as Saul of Tarsus before his conversion to Christianity. Paul is one of the most influential figures in early Christianity, known for his missionary work and theological contributions.
 
A servant of Christ Jesus - Paul describes himself as a "servant" (Greek: δοῦλος, doulos, which can also be translated as "slave"). This term underscores his humility and total dedication to Jesus Christ, emphasizing service and obedience.
 
Called to be an apostle - Here, Paul claims his apostleship, which means he was specifically chosen by Christ to spread the Gospel. An apostle in this context is not just a messenger but one with a divine commission to establish and oversee the church.
 
Set apart for the gospel of God - This phrase indicates that Paul's life has been consecrated or dedicated specifically for the purpose of proclaiming the good news ("gospel") of God. The term "set apart" (Greek: ἀφορίζω, aphorizo) suggests a deliberate separation for sacred duties.
 
This verse sets the tone for the entire letter by establishing Paul's authority and his purpose in writing to the Romans. It's a personal introduction that also serves as a theological statement about his role and mission in the Christian movement. Throughout the Epistle to the Romans, Paul will discuss themes like sin, justification, sanctification, and the role of Israel in God's plan, all underpinned by this initial self-description of being a servant and apostle committed to the gospel.
 
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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 פרוש, "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.
 
John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible
 
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As a Pharisee, Paul was already separated (set apart) unto the Law and to the study of the Law. Now, he was literally being separated from his separation unto the Law, to be separated unto the gospel of God. It can be a bit confusing to us, but if we can understand Paul’s frame of reference, which was his status as a Pharisee, then it’ll be easier to understand the scope of what he is saying.
 
The phrase, "the gospel of God," could have a couple of meanings. One would be, "the good news about God," while the other could be, "the good news that God brings." Given the context it would be quite proper for us to believe that Paul intends a combination of both. In that case we could read it as, "the good news about God that he brings." The truth is, if God hadn't brought to us this Good News about himself, we would never have known.