Romans 1:4

KJV

And declared [to be] the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:

KJV (with Strong's)

And declared {G3724} to be the Son {G5207} of God {G2316} with {G1722} power {G1411}, according {G2596} to the spirit {G4151} of holiness {G42}, by {G1537} the resurrection {G386} from the dead {G3498}:

Complete Jewish Bible

he was powerfully demonstrated to be Son of God spiritually, set apart by his having been resurrected from the dead; he is Yeshua the Messiah, our Lord.

Berean Standard Bible

and 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.

American Standard Version

who was declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead; even Jesus Christ our Lord,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 1:4 presents a profound theological declaration concerning the identity of Jesus Christ, asserting His divine Sonship with undeniable power. Following the assertion of His human lineage through David in the preceding verse, this verse pivots to emphasize His divine nature, definitively "declared" or "appointed" as the Son of God through the mighty act of His resurrection from the dead, operating according to the Spirit of holiness. It serves as a foundational statement for Paul's gospel, highlighting the dual nature of Christ—fully human and fully divine—with the resurrection as the ultimate validation of His deity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 1:4 stands as the climactic statement in Paul’s opening salutation and theological thesis (Romans 1:1-7), specifically elaborating on the "gospel of God" (Romans 1:1). It directly follows Romans 1:3, which states that Jesus was "made of the seed of David according to the flesh." Verse 4 provides the crucial divine counterpoint to this human lineage, presenting Jesus' identity "according to the spirit of holiness" and validating His Sonship through the resurrection. This intentional juxtaposition of "flesh" (humanity) and "spirit of holiness" (divinity) is central to Paul's Christology, establishing from the outset that the Jesus he preaches is both truly human and truly divine, with His divine status powerfully confirmed by God Himself. This foundational declaration sets the stage for the entire letter, which will systematically unpack the implications of this gospel for humanity's sin, God's righteousness, and the path to salvation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul is writing to a diverse church in Rome, comprising both Jewish and Gentile believers. For Jewish believers, the concept of a Messiah from the "seed of David" (Romans 1:3) was deeply rooted in Old Testament prophecy (e.g., [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - Davidic Covenant")). However, the idea of a resurrected Messiah who is also "Son of God with power" would challenge traditional expectations and require theological unpacking. For the Greco-Roman world, the notion of resurrection from the dead was largely foreign and often met with skepticism or ridicule (as seen in [Acts 17:32](/acts/17-32 "Acts 17:32 - Paul's Areopagus Speech")). Therefore, Paul's emphasis on the resurrection as the powerful declaration of Jesus' divine Sonship was a radical and counter-cultural claim, asserting a unique divine intervention that transcended both Jewish messianic expectations and pagan philosophical frameworks. The "power" (Greek: *dynamis*) would have resonated with a world that understood divine power through miraculous acts, but here it is uniquely tied to victory over death.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes in Romans and Pauline theology. Firstly, it underscores the **Divine Sonship of Jesus Christ**, establishing His unique relationship with God the Father and His inherent divine essence. This title signifies not merely an adopted status but an ontological reality, distinguishing Him as God's unique Son. Secondly, the verse highlights the **Centrality and Power of the Resurrection**. The resurrection is presented not just as an event, but as the definitive, powerful act by which God declared Jesus' divine identity. It is the ultimate vindication of Jesus' claims and the demonstration of His victory over sin and death, forming the very core of the gospel message (see [1 Corinthians 15:3-4](/1_corinthians/15-3-4 "1 Corinthians 15:3-4 - The Gospel Message")). Thirdly, the phrase "according to the spirit of holiness" introduces the theme of the **Holy Spirit's Role in Christ's Identity and Work**. This contrasts with the "flesh" in Romans 1:3, pointing to the spiritual, divine realm from which Jesus' power and identity are derived, and hinting at the Spirit's active participation in the resurrection and in the life of believers, a theme extensively developed throughout [Romans 8](/romans/8 "Romans 8 - Life in the Spirit").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **declared (Greek, _horízō'_):** From G3724, meaning "to mark out or bound," "to appoint," "decree," or "specify." This word implies more than a mere announcement; it signifies a definitive, authoritative designation or proof. Jesus was not simply *called* the Son of God, but was powerfully *designated* or *proven* to be the Son of God by a divine act. It's a formal, decisive act of God establishing Christ's identity and status.
* **power (Greek, _dýnamis'_):** From G1411, referring to "force (literally or figuratively)," "miraculous power," or "might." Here, *dýnamis* emphasizes the potent, effective, and supernatural nature of God's act in declaring Jesus' Sonship. It suggests an overwhelming, undeniable demonstration of divine might, specifically manifested through the resurrection. This power is intrinsic to Jesus' divine nature and is the means by which His Sonship is definitively established.
* **holiness (Greek, _hagiōsýnē'_):** From G42, meaning "sacredness" or "the quality of being holy." This word, combined with "spirit" (G4151, *pneûma*), refers to the divine, holy nature of the Spirit, whether understood as the Holy Spirit, or Christ's own divine Spirit. It stands in direct contrast to "flesh" (G4561, *sarx*) in Romans 1:3, highlighting the spiritual and divine realm from which Jesus' power and identity are derived, as opposed to earthly lineage. It denotes the inherent sacredness and purity that characterize God's Spirit and, by extension, Christ's divine nature.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And declared [to be] the Son of God with power":** This clause asserts the definitive establishment of Jesus' divine identity. The verb "declared" (horízō) signifies a formal, authoritative designation by God. Jesus' status as "the Son of God" is not merely a title but an ontological reality, signifying His unique, divine relationship with the Father. This declaration is made "with power" (en dýnamei), emphasizing the mighty, undeniable, and supernatural nature of the act by which this truth is revealed and confirmed. This power is the hallmark of God's work.
* **"according to the spirit of holiness":** This phrase clarifies the sphere or nature by which Jesus' divine Sonship is declared. It stands in direct contrast to "according to the flesh" in Romans 1:3. While "flesh" refers to His human lineage and earthly existence, "spirit of holiness" refers to His divine nature, His spiritual essence, or the Holy Spirit's agency. It points to the divine realm, characterized by inherent holiness and spiritual power, as the source and context of His divine declaration.
* **"by the resurrection from the dead":** This final phrase specifies the concrete, historical event through which Jesus' divine Sonship was powerfully declared. The resurrection is presented as the ultimate, undeniable proof of His identity. It is the decisive act of God that vindicated Jesus' claims, demonstrated His victory over death and sin, and confirmed His status as the divine Son of God. This event is the cornerstone of Christian faith, providing the historical and theological foundation for the gospel.

#### Literary Devices
Romans 1:4 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound theological message. Central to its impact is **Contrast**, specifically with the preceding verse. While Romans 1:3 speaks of Jesus "according to the flesh" (his human lineage), verse 4 presents Him "according to the spirit of holiness" (his divine nature), highlighting the two aspects of Christ's person. This antithetical parallelism emphasizes the completeness of His identity as both fully human and fully divine. The phrase "declared... with power" functions as a powerful **Affirmation** or **Proclamation**, underscoring the authoritative and undeniable nature of Jesus' divine Sonship. The use of "power" (dýnamis) serves as **Emphasis**, drawing attention to the supernatural might involved in this declaration, particularly as it culminates in the resurrection. This strategic use of language ensures that the reader grasps the full weight of Jesus' divine authority and the foundational role of His resurrection in establishing His identity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 1:4 is a cornerstone of Christian Christology, establishing the dual nature of Christ—His true humanity and His true divinity—with the resurrection serving as the decisive divine attestation of His Sonship. This declaration is not merely about a title, but about His very being and authority. It underscores that Jesus is not just a prophet or a king, but God's unique Son, sharing in the divine essence, whose identity is fully revealed through His triumph over death. This truth forms the bedrock of the gospel message, affirming that the one who died for our sins is indeed the Lord of life, capable of delivering salvation and new life. The "spirit of holiness" points to the active role of the Holy Spirit in Christ's resurrection and, by extension, in the life of believers, connecting Christ's victory to the indwelling power available to those who believe.

* [Acts 2:36](/acts/2-36 "Acts 2:36 - Peter's Sermon on Pentecost")
* [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation")
* [1 Corinthians 15:20-22](/1_corinthians/15-20-22 "1 Corinthians 15:20-22 - Christ as the Firstfruits")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 1:4 invites us to reflect deeply on the profound identity of Jesus Christ and the unshakable foundation of our faith. If Jesus was truly "declared to be the Son of God with power... by the resurrection from the dead," then His claims, His teachings, and His sacrifice bear the full weight of divine authority. This truth provides immense assurance for believers: our salvation is not based on a mere human teacher or a historical figure, but on the resurrected, divine Son of God who has conquered sin and death. It calls us to live with confident hope, knowing that the same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work within us, enabling us to overcome sin and live a new life. This verse also compels us to share this powerful truth, for the resurrection is the ultimate proof that the gospel is not a myth but a historical reality with eternal implications.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the declaration of Jesus as "Son of God with power" by His resurrection impact your understanding of His authority in your life?**
* **In what ways does the "spirit of holiness" manifest in your own life, drawing you closer to Christ's divine nature?**
* **How does the historical reality of the resurrection strengthen your faith and provide hope in the face of life's challenges?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "declared [to be] the Son of God with power"?**

Answer: This phrase, using the Greek word *horízō*, means Jesus was definitively and authoritatively designated or appointed as the Son of God. It's not merely a title He claimed, but a status powerfully affirmed by God Himself. The "power" (Greek: *dýnamis*) refers to the mighty, supernatural act by which this declaration was made, specifically through His resurrection. It signifies that Jesus' divine Sonship is an undeniable, divinely validated reality, not just a theological concept. This powerful declaration underscores His unique relationship with the Father and His inherent deity, setting Him apart as the one through whom salvation is accomplished.

**What does "according to the spirit of holiness" mean in this verse?**

Answer: This phrase contrasts with "according to the flesh" in [Romans 1:3](/romans/1-3 "Romans 1:3 - Jesus' Human Lineage"). While "flesh" refers to Jesus' human lineage and earthly existence, "spirit of holiness" points to His divine nature or the Holy Spirit's agency. It signifies that Jesus' divine Sonship was declared not by human means or earthly lineage, but by His spiritual, divine essence, or by the work of the Holy Spirit. It highlights the divine, holy realm from which His power and identity originate, emphasizing the spiritual reality of His Sonship as opposed to merely a human one. It suggests the inherent holiness and divine power that characterize His being.

**Why is the resurrection so crucial to Jesus being "declared" the Son of God?**

Answer: The resurrection is the ultimate, undeniable proof and the climactic event that validates Jesus' divine Sonship. In a world where death was the final victor, Jesus' resurrection demonstrated His absolute authority over death and sin, proving that He was indeed who He claimed to be—God's unique Son. It was God's powerful seal of approval on Jesus' life, ministry, and sacrificial death. Without the resurrection, the claims of Jesus would lack divine corroboration, and the Christian faith would be in vain, as Paul argues in [1 Corinthians 15:14](/1_corinthians/15-14 "1 Corinthians 15:14 - The Futility of Faith Without Resurrection"). The resurrection transformed His disciples' despair into bold proclamation and remains the historical bedrock of Christian belief.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 1:4 stands as a pivotal declaration of Christ's identity, revealing the profound truth that the Jesus who walked among us, born of David's line, was definitively "declared to be the Son of God with power" through His resurrection. This verse points directly to the core of Christ's redemptive work. His resurrection is not merely an event but the ultimate vindication of His divine claims and the powerful demonstration of His victory over sin and death, essential for our salvation (as seen in [Romans 4:25](/romans/4-25 "Romans 4:25 - Jesus' Death and Resurrection for Justification")). The "spirit of holiness" through which this declaration occurs foreshadows the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers, connecting Christ's triumph to the new life available to us (echoed in [Romans 8:11](/romans/8-11 "Romans 8:11 - The Spirit's Power to Give Life")). Thus, Romans 1:4 proclaims Jesus as the divine Lord, whose resurrection secures our hope, assures our justification, and empowers our transformation, making Him the very center of God's redemptive plan and the object of our faith and worship, for He is indeed "Lord of all" ([Acts 10:36](/acts/10-36 "Acts 10:36 - Jesus, Lord of All")).

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

Hebrews 9:14

How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

Hebrews 5:5

So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.

Hebrews 5:6

As he saith also in another [place], Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

Ephesians 1:19

And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,

Ephesians 1:23

Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

2 Corinthians 13:4

For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.

Acts 13:33

God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.