Romans 1:8

 

First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being proclaimed all over the world.
Romans 1:8 Berean Standard Bible (BSB)
 
First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.
Romans 1:8 King James Bible (KJV)
 
First of all, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed throughout the whole world.
Romans 1:8 New English Translation (NET)
 
First, I thank my God
In this opening phrase, Paul sets a tone of gratitude and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. The Greek word for "thank" is "εὐχαριστῶ" (eucharistō), which conveys a deep sense of gratitude and is the root of the word "Eucharist," reflecting a heart of worship and thanksgiving. Paul’s use of "my God" personalizes his relationship with the divine, emphasizing a personal and intimate connection with the Creator, which is foundational in Christian faith.
 
through Jesus Christ
This phrase underscores the mediatory role of Jesus in the believer's relationship with God. The Greek preposition "διὰ" (dia) indicates that Jesus is the channel through which Paul offers his thanks. This reflects the core Christian doctrine that Jesus is the sole mediator between God and humanity, as seen in 1 Timothy 2:5. It highlights the centrality of Christ in all aspects of faith and practice.
 
for all of you
Paul's gratitude is not selective but inclusive, covering all the believers in Rome. The Greek word "πάντων" (pantōn) means "all," indicating the universal nature of the church and the unity among believers. This inclusivity reflects the early church's understanding of the body of Christ as one, transcending cultural and social barriers, which is a recurring theme in Paul's letters.
 
because your faith is being proclaimed
The phrase "your faith is being proclaimed" suggests that the faith of the Roman believers is well-known and celebrated. The Greek word "καταγγέλλεται" (katangelletai) means "proclaimed" or "announced," indicating that their faith is not just personal but has a public and influential dimension. This public testimony of faith serves as an encouragement and a model for other believers.
 
all over the world
This hyperbolic expression, "all over the world," uses the Greek "ἐν ὅλῳ τῷ κόσμῳ" (en holō tō kosmō), which can be understood as the known world of the Roman Empire at the time. It reflects the widespread impact and reach of the Gospel message, fulfilling Jesus' command to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). This phrase also highlights the early church's missionary zeal and the rapid spread of Christianity despite persecution and challenges.
 
Berean Study Bible
 
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First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ: This phrase indicates that Paul is beginning his letter with an expression of gratitude to God. The phrase "through Jesus Christ" reflects the Christian belief that all prayers and thanksgivings are made possible through Jesus, who is seen as the mediator between God and humanity.
 
For all of you: Paul is addressing the Christian community in Rome. His thanks are directed at these believers collectively.
 
Because your faith is being reported all over the world: This part suggests that the faith and commitment of the Roman Christians had become well-known, extending beyond their local community. It's an acknowledgment of their reputation for faith, which was evidently strong enough to be noteworthy throughout the early Christian world.
 
This opening thanks serves several purposes:
 
It builds rapport with the recipients, establishing a positive tone for the rest of the letter.
 
It acknowledges the spiritual growth and influence of the Roman church, which could be encouraging for them.
 
It reflects Paul's pastoral care, showing his personal interest and investment in the spiritual lives of these believers.
 
In the broader context of the letter to the Romans, which deals with themes like righteousness, sin, and salvation, this initial expression of gratitude sets a foundation of goodwill and unity. It reminds the readers that their faith is recognized and valued, which might be particularly impactful given that Paul had not yet visited Rome when he wrote this letter.
 
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John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible:
 
First, I thank my God, through Jesus Christ, for you all,.... After the inscription and salutation, follows a thanksgiving, which begins the epistle: it is usual with the apostle in all his epistles to make requests for the churches, with thanksgivings for mercies; his view in it was, to glorify God, to testify his affection to the saints, and to show that all they had must be referred to the grace of God. The object of thanksgiving is God not merely as a creator and preserver, but as a Father, the Father of Christ, and our Father in Christ; as the one God, and our God, Father, Son, and Spirit. The apostle styles him, my God; which distinguishes him from all others, points out his particular interest in him, expresses his knowledge of him and faith in him, and demonstrates that what he did now, he did in faith. The person through whom thanks are given is Jesus Christ. There is no coming to God but through Christ, nor is any sacrifice either of prayer or praise acceptable without him, and since all we have come through him, it is but reasonable that thanks for them should be returned by and through him; the persons for whom this thanksgiving is made were all the Romans, all the saints at Rome, the members of the church there, of whatsoever rank and degree, and in whatsoever, state and condition; the thing for which the apostle was thankful for particularly was, not that their city was mistress of the whole world, and their fame for power, wealth, and grandeur, was spread abroad far and near; but, says he,
 
that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world; which shows that faith is a grace of great account: God has put an honour upon it, by making it the receiver of all his gifts, and that gives glory to God, and without it nothing is acceptable to him; it answers many excellent uses and purposes in experience; it is that by which saints live upon Christ in this world, and look to the glories of another. This also shows that the saints at Rome did not hide their faith in their breasts, but declared it to others; a public profession both of the grace and doctrine of faith is to be made, and constantly held; both are to be shown forth to others, by deeds as well as words; which greatly redounds to the honour of such churches, causes joy in other churches, and in all the ministers of the Gospel, and is the occasion of many thanksgivings to God.
 
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Cross References:
 
Philippians 1:3-5
I thank my God every time I remember you. / In every prayer for all of you, I always pray with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now,
 
2 Thessalonians 1:3
We are obligated to thank God for you all the time, brothers, as is fitting, because your faith is growing more and more, and your love for one another is increasing.
 
2 Timothy 1:3
I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience as did my forefathers, as I constantly remember you night and day in my prayers.