Romans 1:2

(Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)

(Which {G3739} he had promised afore {G4279} by {G1223} his {G846} prophets {G4396} in {G1722} the holy {G40} scriptures {G1124},)

God promised this Good News in advance through his prophets in the Tanakh.

the gospel He promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures,

which he promised afore through his prophets in the holy scriptures,

Commentary

Romans 1:2 is part of Paul's introductory remarks in his letter to the church in Rome. It immediately establishes the divine origin and historical foundation of the gospel message he is about to proclaim. Paul emphasizes that this good news about Jesus Christ is not a new invention, but something deeply rooted in God's plan revealed through the ages.

Context

This verse follows Paul's identification of himself as a servant and apostle called to preach the gospel of God (Romans 1:1). Verse 2 clarifies that this gospel is not arbitrary; it is the very message that God Himself "had promised afore" long ago. This points back to the extensive prophetic tradition of the Old Testament, positioning Christianity as the fulfillment of God's ancient promises to Israel and the world.

Key Themes

  • Divine Origin of the Gospel: The gospel is not a human invention but originates from God's own promise.
  • Continuity of God's Plan: The verse highlights the seamless connection between the Old Testament prophecies and the New Testament fulfillment in Jesus Christ. God's plan of salvation is consistent throughout history.
  • Authority of Scripture: The "holy scriptures" (referring primarily to the Old Testament) are presented as the authoritative source where God's promises were recorded by His prophets.
  • Reliability of God's Promises: Because God promised the gospel message beforehand, it underscores His faithfulness and the certainty of His redemptive plan.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "holy scriptures" translates the Greek graphais hagiais. This term specifically refers to the sacred writings of the Old Testament, which were accepted as inspired by God. By grounding the gospel in these writings, Paul appeals to a foundation familiar and respected by both Jewish and Gentile audiences who were acquainted with the synagogue tradition.

Related Scriptures

Paul consistently argues that Christ and the gospel fulfill the Old Testament. This theme is echoed throughout the New Testament. For instance, Jesus himself taught that all things written about him in the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled. Similarly, Peter, in Acts, declares that all the prophets bear witness to Christ, that through his name whosoever believes in him shall receive remission of sins.

Practical Application

Understanding that the gospel is rooted in ancient prophecies provides immense confidence in its truth and divine origin. It shows that God's plan of salvation is not an afterthought but a central theme woven through centuries of revelation. For believers today, this connection reinforces the reliability of God's Word and His faithfulness to keep His promises, offering a solid foundation for faith.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Titus 1:2

    In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;

  • Luke 1:70

    As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:

  • Romans 16:26

    But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:

  • Romans 3:21

    But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

  • Romans 3:2

    Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.

  • Acts 10:43

    To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

  • Luke 24:26

    Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?
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