Romans 9:1
I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,
Original Language Analysis
λέγω
I say
G3004
λέγω
I say
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
2 of 14
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ψεύδομαι
I lie
G5574
ψεύδομαι
I lie
Strong's:
G5574
Word #:
6 of 14
to utter an untruth or attempt to deceive by falsehood
συμμαρτυρούσης
also bearing
G4828
συμμαρτυρούσης
also bearing
Strong's:
G4828
Word #:
7 of 14
to testify jointly, i.e., corroborate by (concurrent) evidence
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
1 Timothy 2:7Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.Romans 1:9For 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;Galatians 1:20Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.2 Corinthians 11:10As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia.Romans 8:16The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:Philippians 1:8For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.1 Timothy 1:5Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:2 Corinthians 1:12For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.2 Corinthians 12:19Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.1 Thessalonians 2:5For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:
Historical Context
Paul wrote Romans circa AD 57 from Corinth, addressing both Jewish and Gentile believers. Chapters 9-11 form a sustained theodicy defending God's faithfulness despite Israel's unbelief—a crisis threatening the gospel's credibility since salvation was 'to the Jew first.' Paul's credentials as a Hebrew of Hebrews (Philippians 3:5) lend weight to his anguish.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does Paul invoke such solemn triple attestation before revealing his grief over Israel?
- How does speaking 'in Christ' transform the nature and authority of our words?
- What does the Spirit's co-witnessing with our conscience teach about sanctification?
Analysis & Commentary
I say the truth in Christ, I lie not—Paul opens with solemn attestation (alētheian legō en Christō, ἀλήθειαν λέγω ἐν Χριστῷ), invoking Christ as witness to his truthfulness. My conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost adds triple testimony: his word, his conscience (syneidēsis, συνείδησις), and the Spirit's internal witness. This rhetorical intensity prepares for the shocking declaration to follow.
The phrase en Christō grounds Paul's oath not in himself but in union with Christ—he speaks as one who embodies Christ's own heart. The Holy Spirit's co-witnessing (symmartyrouseēs, συμμαρτυρούσης) establishes the divine authority of what follows. This is not mere human sentiment but Spirit-inspired truth about God's electing purposes.