Romans 1:1

KJV

¶ Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called [to be] an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

KJV (with Strong's)

Paul {G3972}, a servant {G1401} of Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}, called {G2822} to be an apostle {G652}, separated {G873} unto {G1519} the gospel {G2098} of God {G2316},

Complete Jewish Bible

From: Sha’ul, a slave of the Messiah Yeshua, an emissary because I was called and set apart for the Good News of God.

Berean Standard Bible

Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God—

American Standard Version

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, calledto bean apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 1:1 serves as a profound and foundational declaration of Paul's identity, authority, and life's singular purpose. In this opening statement, Paul introduces himself not by earthly titles but as a devoted bondservant of Jesus Christ, divinely commissioned as an apostle, and uniquely set apart for the proclamation of God's transformative gospel. This verse immediately establishes the theological weight and apostolic authority behind the entire letter, setting the stage for its comprehensive exposition of salvation through faith.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 1:1 functions as the epistolary prescript, immediately following the standard ancient letter format of sender identification. It is not merely a formal greeting but a theological declaration that frames the entire epistle. Paul's detailed self-description and statement of purpose in this opening verse are crucial for establishing his authority with a church he did not found and had not yet visited. This extended introduction (vv. 1-7) serves to validate his message and prepare the recipients for the profound theological arguments that follow, particularly concerning the universal need for salvation and God's righteousness revealed in the gospel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul likely wrote this letter from Corinth around 57 AD, at the culmination of his third missionary journey, as he prepared to travel to Jerusalem and then on to Rome and Spain. The Roman church was a diverse community, comprising both Jewish and Gentile believers, and likely faced internal tensions regarding the relationship between the Law and the Gospel, and the place of Israel in God's redemptive plan. Paul's emphasis on his apostolic calling and his being "separated unto the gospel of God" (a phrase reminiscent of prophetic callings like Jeremiah's or Isaiah's) was vital for asserting his direct commission from Christ, thus lending weight to his articulation of the gospel for both segments of the Roman church.
* **Key Themes:** This introductory verse immediately introduces several pivotal themes that permeate the entire letter to the Romans. Paul's self-identification as a "servant of Jesus Christ" (a recurring theme of [Christian identity and servanthood](/1_corinthians/7-22 "1 Corinthians 7:22 - Called to be a Servant")) underscores the complete devotion and submission required of those who follow Christ. His calling as an "apostle" highlights the divine initiative and authority behind the proclamation of the gospel, a message not of human origin but of God's own design. Furthermore, being "separated unto the gospel of God" emphasizes the exclusive and holy purpose of Paul's life, echoing the broader biblical theme of [God setting apart individuals for His specific purposes](/acts/13-2 "Acts 13:2 - Barnabas and Saul Set Apart for Ministry"). Finally, the phrase "the gospel of God" introduces the central subject of the entire epistle, signaling that the good news originates from and belongs to God Himself, a theme profoundly developed throughout [Romans](/romans/1 "The Book of Romans - The Gospel of God's Righteousness").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **servant (Greek, _doûlos'_):** From δέω, meaning "to bind." This term signifies a slave or bondservant, implying complete ownership and absolute devotion. Paul's use of _doûlos_ here is not merely a humble self-description but a profound theological statement: his identity, will, and life are entirely submitted to and defined by Jesus Christ. It speaks of a voluntary, lifelong commitment to his Master's will and purpose, transcending mere employment to denote profound allegiance.
* **apostle (Greek, _apóstolos'_):** From ἀποστέλλω, meaning "to send forth." An _apóstolos_ is a delegate, an authorized messenger, or a commissioner. For Paul, this title signifies a direct, divine commission from the risen Christ to preach the gospel, particularly to the Gentiles. It implies not only a message but also the authority and power to deliver it, often accompanied by miraculous signs, distinguishing him as a foundational messenger of the new covenant.
* **separated (Greek, _aphorízō'_):** From ἀπό ("from") and ὁρίζω ("to set a boundary"). This word means "to set off by boundary," "to limit," or "to appoint." In this context, it denotes a divine act of setting Paul apart for a specific, holy purpose—the proclamation of the gospel. It implies a deliberate, sovereign choice by God that distinguished Paul from others and dedicated his life entirely to this sacred mission.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ":** This opening phrase immediately establishes the author's identity. "Paul" is his Roman name, signifying his Gentile mission. The designation "a servant of Jesus Christ" (Greek _doûlos_) is a powerful declaration of his ultimate allegiance and submission. It is his primary identity, indicating that his entire being and ministry are devoted to Christ, not to any earthly master or ambition. This sets the tone for the letter, rooting its authority in Christ himself.
* **"called to be an apostle":** This clause clarifies the nature of Paul's servanthood. His apostleship is not self-appointed but a divine summons ("called," Greek _klētós_). This "calling" is an act of God's sovereign grace, conferring upon him the unique authority and responsibility of an apostle (Greek _apóstolos_), one "sent forth" by Christ with a specific message and mission. This divine commission is crucial for the Roman church, as it validates the message of a man they had not personally met.
* **"separated unto the gospel of God":** This final clause defines the specific purpose of Paul's calling and servanthood. The word "separated" (Greek _aphorízō_) implies a deliberate, divine act of setting him apart for a holy and exclusive task. His entire life and ministry are dedicated to "the gospel of God"—the good news that originates from God, reveals God's righteousness, and accomplishes God's redemptive plan. This highlights that the gospel is not a human invention but God's own saving message, to which Paul's life is wholly consecrated.

#### Literary Devices
Romans 1:1 is rich in **Apostolic Salutation**, a common feature of ancient letters, but Paul transforms it into a profound theological statement. The verse employs **Self-Identification** as its primary function, with Paul immediately asserting his authority and mission. The use of "servant" (Greek _doûlos_) is a powerful example of **Metonymy**, where the term for a slave represents complete devotion and submission. This also functions as **Humility** alongside **Authority**, as Paul, despite his high office, presents himself first as a humble bondservant. The phrase "gospel of God" is a concise **Theological Declaration**, immediately stating the letter's central theme and ultimate source. The verse's structure, moving from identity to calling to purpose, demonstrates a clear **Purpose Statement** that guides the reader into the letter's content.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's opening declaration in Romans 1:1 is a theological cornerstone, establishing the divine origin and authority of the gospel he is about to expound. His identity as a "servant of Jesus Christ" reflects a profound understanding of Christian discipleship, where true freedom is found in complete devotion to Christ. His "calling" and "separation" underscore the sovereignty of God in initiating and sustaining His redemptive plan through chosen vessels. The "gospel of God" is presented not as a human philosophy but as God's own powerful message of salvation, revealing His righteousness and faithfulness. This sets the stage for the entire book, which meticulously unpacks how this gospel addresses humanity's sin and offers salvation by grace through faith, for both Jew and Gentile.

* [Galatians 1:15-16](/galatians/1-15-16 "Galatians 1:15-16 - Paul's Divine Calling")
* [Philippians 3:7-8](/philippians/3-7-8 "Philippians 3:7-8 - Paul's Priorities in Christ")
* [2 Timothy 1:9-10](/2_timothy/1-9-10 "2 Timothy 1:9-10 - God's Purpose and Grace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's concise yet profound self-introduction in Romans 1:1 offers a powerful framework for understanding our own identity and purpose as believers. He doesn't lead with his impressive resume or Jewish heritage, but with his fundamental relationship to Jesus Christ: a servant, called, and separated. This challenges us to consider what truly defines us. Is our primary identity rooted in our relationship with Christ, or in our worldly achievements, roles, or affiliations? Like Paul, we are all called by God, though our specific vocations may differ from his apostolic one. Every believer is "separated" by God's grace for His purposes, entrusted with the privilege of living out and, in various ways, sharing the "gospel of God." Our lives, therefore, should be fundamentally oriented towards this good news, reflecting its transforming power and pointing others to its divine source. What does it mean for us, in our daily lives, to live as those "separated unto the gospel of God"?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I primarily define myself? How does Paul's self-identification as a "servant of Jesus Christ" challenge or affirm my understanding of my own identity?**
* **Do I recognize a divine "calling" and "separation" in my own life, even if it's not an apostolic one? How does this understanding impact my daily choices and priorities?**
* **How can I more fully live as someone "separated unto the gospel of God" in my spheres of influence, allowing my life to be a testament to His good news?**

### FAQ
**Why does Paul emphasize being "called to be an apostle" and "separated unto the gospel of God" so early in his letter?**

Answer: Paul's emphasis on his divine calling and separation in Romans 1:1 serves several crucial purposes. First, it establishes his **apostolic authority**. Unlike the churches he founded, Paul had not personally established the church in Rome. By asserting that he was "called to be an apostle" (a direct commission from the resurrected Christ, as seen in [Acts 9:15-16](/acts/9-15-16 "Acts 9:15-16 - Paul's Call to the Gentiles")), he validates his right to instruct and teach this significant community. Second, it highlights the **divine origin of his message**. He is not sharing his own opinions but "the gospel of God," a message entrusted to him by God Himself. This underscores the gospel's inherent truth and power. Third, being "separated unto the gospel" (a concept also found in [Galatians 1:15](/galatians/1-15 "Galatians 1:15 - God Set Paul Apart")) emphasizes the singular, lifelong dedication of his ministry, assuring the Roman believers that his motives and message are pure and divinely ordained, not self-serving.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 1:1, while a statement about Paul's identity, profoundly points to Christ in its very structure and terminology. Paul, as a "servant of Jesus Christ," mirrors the ultimate servanthood of Christ Himself, who, though divine, "made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility and Servanthood")). Paul's "calling" as an apostle is a direct extension of Christ's own mission to proclaim the good news of the Kingdom, fulfilling the prophetic role of the one "sent" by God ([John 3:17](/john/3-17 "John 3:17 - God Sent His Son")). Furthermore, Paul's "separation unto the gospel of God" finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who was uniquely "separated" and consecrated by God the Father to be the very embodiment and content of that gospel ([Hebrews 7:26](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26 - Christ, Holy and Set Apart")). The "gospel of God" itself is the good news *about* Christ—His life, death, resurrection, and reign—which is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes ([Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Power of the Gospel")). Thus, Paul's identity, calling, and purpose are entirely defined by and directed towards the person and work of Jesus Christ, making this opening verse a Christ-centered declaration of the redemptive plan.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 9:15

But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

Romans 15:16

That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.

1 Corinthians 1:1

¶ Paul, called [to be] an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes [our] brother,

Jeremiah 1:5

Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, [and] I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

Colossians 1:1

¶ Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus [our] brother,

Titus 1:1

¶ Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;

2 Corinthians 1:1

¶ Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy [our] brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia: