Romans 1:6 kjv

Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:

Romans 1:6 nkjv

among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ;

Romans 1:6 niv

And you also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.

Romans 1:6 esv

including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ,

Romans 1:6 nlt

And you are included among those Gentiles who have been called to belong to Jesus Christ.

Romans 1 verses

Romans 1 6 Meaning

Romans 1:6 declares that the believers in Rome are integral to the universal divine call initiated by Jesus Christ. It states that they, alongside others, are those whom Christ has effectually called to belong to Him and participate in His gospel purpose. This establishes their spiritual identity not by their own merit or choice, but by God's sovereign initiative and grace through Christ.

Romans 1 6 Context

Romans 1:6 is part of Paul's extended salutation and introduction (Romans 1:1-7) to the church in Rome, a community he had not yet visited. Within this greeting, Paul asserts his apostolic authority, states his mission to bring about the "obedience of faith among all the Gentiles" (v. 5), and then explicitly includes the Roman believers in this universal scope. The historical context indicates that the church in Rome was likely comprised of both Jewish and Gentile converts, although Paul's focus in his mission and argument in Romans is largely centered on the inclusion of Gentiles and the breaking down of barriers. The verse sets the stage for Paul's foundational teaching on the Gospel's power for salvation to everyone who believes, underscoring that faith originates from God's gracious initiation, not human effort.

Romans 1 6 Word analysis

• among whom (Greek: ἐν οἷς - en hois):
  • Significance: This phrase directly connects the Roman believers back to the "all the Gentiles" (panta ta ethnē) mentioned in the preceding verse (Romans 1:5). It signifies inclusion and continuity.
  • Contextual link: It establishes that the recipients of Paul's letter are not an isolated group but are part of the vast harvest of believers from various nations, which is the aim of Paul's divinely appointed apostolic mission.
• you also (Greek: καὶ ὑμεῖς - kai hymeis):
  • Significance: The addition of "also" (καὶ - kai) strongly emphasizes the inclusion of the Roman Christians. It conveys that "you" (the readers in Rome) are equally part of this called group.
  • Implication: It validates their standing before God and assures them of their place within the universal community of believers, grounding their identity not in their Roman citizenship or societal status but in their divine calling.
• are (Greek: ἐστε - este):
  • Grammar/Tense: Present indicative tense of the verb "to be."
  • Significance: This is a statement of fact and present reality. It declares their current, existing status as the called ones, indicating a settled and definite state, not a future possibility or past event only.
• the called (Greek: κλητοὶ - klētoi):
  • Meaning: This is a key theological term. It refers to those who are effectually summoned by God. It goes beyond a general invitation and implies a divine act of selection and drawing, leading to a definite response of faith.
  • Original Language/Context: In the Old Testament, God "called" individuals like Abraham or the nation of Israel for a specific purpose. In the New Testament, "the called" refers to believers who are part of God's sovereign plan for salvation and fellowship with His Son (e.g., 1 Cor 1:9, 1 Cor 1:26).
  • Distinction: It is distinct from merely "invited" (Greek: kaleo, which can be a broader term) and emphasizes God's sovereign initiative in their salvation rather than their human merit or independent decision.
• of Jesus Christ (Greek: Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ - Iēsou Christou):
  • Grammar: Genitive case, implying origin, possession, or agency.
  • Interpretation: Can be understood in a dual sense:
    • Called by Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is the one who issues the divine call.
    • Called to belong to Jesus Christ: They are called into a relationship of ownership and dedication to Christ. This highlights their new identity and allegiance.
  • Significance: It grounds their calling in the person and work of Christ. It implies that their new life and purpose are intrinsically connected to Him, as opposed to any earthly ruler or deity.

Romans 1 6 Bonus section

The phrase "the called" (klētoi) is significant for understanding the concept of effectual calling within Reformed theology, distinguishing it from a general Gospel invitation. It denotes a specific, inner work of the Holy Spirit that supernaturally enables and draws an individual to faith in Christ, resulting in regeneration and conversion. This specific term also aligns with Paul's consistent emphasis throughout Romans on God's sovereignty in salvation, seen further in discussions of predestination and election (Rom 8, Rom 9). It underscores that faith itself, even the ability to respond to the gospel, is a gift and fruit of this divine call.

Romans 1 6 Commentary

Romans 1:6 serves as a foundational declaration of the identity of the Roman believers, crucial for understanding Paul's subsequent exposition of the Gospel. It underscores that their status as Christians is not accidental, nor is it based on their ethnicity, social standing, or prior works. Instead, it is a direct consequence of a divine summons—they are "the called of Jesus Christ." This powerful statement preempts any human boasting and highlights the sovereignty of God's grace in salvation. Paul affirms their inclusion among "all the Gentiles," demonstrating the universal reach of Christ's saving work and Paul's mission. Their calling signifies belonging, a personal connection initiated by Christ, setting them apart as His own people, destined for His purposes and glory.

• Practical Usage:
  • This verse can be a source of profound assurance, reminding believers that their faith is not a mere human decision but a divinely ordained reality.
  • It challenges the notion of salvation by merit, reorienting focus to God's prior initiative and undeserved favor.
  • It promotes humility and gratitude, recognizing that one's Christian identity is a gift, a gracious calling from Christ Himself.