God’s Power for Salvation | Romans 1:1–17

Paul celebrates faith, mission, and the life-changing force of the gospel for everyone who believes.

❓ How does knowing you’re set apart change the way you live and share hope with others?

Romans 1:1–3, 16–17 (AMP)
1 Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God—
2 the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David,
3 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.
16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God’s power to bring salvation to everyone who believes—first to the Jew, then to the Greek.
17 For in it God’s righteousness is revealed through faith for faith, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
Read Romans 1:1–17 AMP on BibleGateway

Paul opens with a relationship.

Paul opens not with credentials but with a relationship. He names himself first as a servant, then as one called and set apart. In doing so, he echoes Isaiah’s prophecy of God’s messenger and reminds us that our identity rests on God’s initiative, not our resume. Before we tally accomplishments, God has already claimed us. Reflect on how embracing this calling reshapes your priorities and frees you from seeking worth in performance.

Paul anchors the gospel on Jesus Christ.

Next, Paul anchors the gospel in Scripture and centers it on Jesus Christ—the promised Son of David, declared God’s Son by resurrection power. This isn’t religious hype but the very power that raises the dead. When we trust this power rather than our own strength, we step into a life of freedom and hope. No culture, past mistake, or barrier can stand against it. How might you depend more on God’s power today instead of your resources?

Paul’s heart for the Roman believers.

Paul’s heart for the Roman believers shines in his thanksgiving and prayer. He greets fellow saints “loved by God and called to be his holy people,” rejoicing that their faith has gone out into the world. He longs to visit, to encourage one another and to build a shared life of prayer and mission. In our communities, we follow his example—uplifting each other in prayer, sharing victories and struggles, and entrusting our plans to God’s will. Who in your circle needs your prayer and encouragement this week?

The gospel is God’s power for salvation

The gospel is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes. Finally, Paul lays down the thesis of his entire letter: the gospel is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes, revealing righteousness by faith. It’s the opening statement in a grand courtroom drama, where we first see the depth of our need and then the height of God’s grace. As you journey through Romans, let this truth sink in: your standing before God isn’t earned but received by faith.

A Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us by name and setting us apart for Your gospel. Fill us with the boldness Paul knew that we would never be ashamed of the good news of Your life, death, and resurrection. Help us to live by faith each day, trusting in Your power and loving others with the hope we’ve received. Unite us in prayer and mission, that through our lives, Your righteousness might be revealed to all who believe. Amen.

🏷️ Tags: #apostleship #gospel #faith #servanthood #Romans1