Romans 1:9

For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;

For {G1063} God {G2316} is {G2076} my {G3450} witness {G3144}, whom {G3739} I serve {G3000} with {G1722} my {G3450} spirit {G4151} in {G1722} the gospel {G2098} of his {G846} Son {G5207}, that {G5613} without ceasing {G89} I make {G4160} mention {G3417} of you {G5216} always {G3842} in {G1909} my {G3450} prayers {G4335};

For God, whom I serve in my spirit by spreading the Good News about his Son, is my witness that I regularly remember you

God, whom I serve with my spirit in preaching the gospel of His Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you

For God is my witness, whom I serve in my spirit in the gospel of his Son, how unceasingly I make mention of you, always in my prayers

Commentary

Romans 1:9 (KJV): For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;

Context

The Apostle Paul begins his letter to the church in Rome by expressing his deep desire to visit them. He establishes his credentials as an apostle called to preach the gospel. In Romans 1:8, he thanks God for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the world. Verse 9 continues this thought, providing the evidence for his gratitude and affection: his constant prayer for them, testifying to his genuine spiritual service and commitment to the gospel.

Key Themes

  • Paul's Sincere Service: Paul calls upon God as a witness to the authenticity and depth of his service. This wasn't just outward action but a commitment "with his spirit."
  • The Centrality of the Gospel: Paul's service is specifically "in the gospel of his Son." The good news about Jesus Christ is the core of his ministry and purpose.
  • Constant Prayer: Paul assures the Romans that he prays for them "without ceasing" and "always." This highlights the importance of intercessory prayer for fellow believers, even those one has not met.
  • Deep Affection for Believers: His consistent prayer life demonstrates his genuine care and spiritual connection to the church in Rome.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "serve with my spirit" translates the Greek latreuล en tล pneumati mou. Latreuล often refers to religious service or worship, suggesting that Paul's ministry in the gospel was not merely a job but an act of worship offered to God from his innermost being, his spirit. This emphasizes a deep, internal commitment rather than just external performance.

Reflection and Application

Romans 1:9 serves as a powerful example of authentic Christian ministry and community. Paul's willingness to call God as his witness underscores the integrity required in serving the Lord. His focus on serving "in the gospel" reminds us that our service should always be centered on Christ and His message. Furthermore, his commitment to praying "without ceasing" for the Roman believers, whom he had not yet met, challenges us to be diligent in constant prayer for fellow believers, supporting them spiritually even across distances. This verse encourages us to examine the sincerity of our own service and the consistency of our prayer lives.

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Cross-References

  • Ephesians 6:18

    Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

  • 2 Timothy 1:3

    I thank God, whom I serve from [my] forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;

  • Ephesians 1:16

    Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;

  • 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,

  • Romans 9:1

    ยถ I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,

  • 2 Corinthians 1:23

    Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:17

    Pray without ceasing.
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