Romans 1:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 1:6
6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:
Chapter Context
Romans 1 is a theological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, truth, righteousness. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 1:6
6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:
Analysis
Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:
Paul now applies the global mission of verse 5 specifically to Roman believers: en hois este kai humeis klētoi Iēsou Christou (ἐν οἷς ἐστε καὶ ὑμεῖς κλητοὶ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, 'among whom you also are called of Jesus Christ'). The adjective klētoi (κλητοί, 'called ones') echoes verse 1 where Paul identified himself as klētos (called). The calling is divine initiative, effectual, and gracious—God calls, and those called respond in faith.
The genitive Iēsou Christou indicates both source (called by Jesus Christ) and possession (belonging to Jesus Christ). This calling is not merely to salvation but to belonging—they are Christ's people, His treasured possession. The inclusion of Gentile believers in Rome 'among the nations' was itself a demonstration of the gospel's power to unite Jew and Gentile into one body (Ephesians 2:11-22). Paul's addressing them as 'called' reminds them of their identity: chosen before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4), effectually summoned from darkness to light (1 Peter 2:9).
Historical Context
The Roman church was likely majority Gentile by the time Paul wrote, though with a significant Jewish minority. Tensions between these groups over law observance, dietary practices, and holy days are addressed later in Romans 14-15. Paul's identification of them as 'called' on equal footing with Jewish believers was a powerful statement of unity in Christ, transcending ethnic and cultural divisions that plagued the ancient world.
Reflection
- How does your identity as one of the 'called' (κλητοί) of Jesus Christ reorder your priorities, relationships, and daily decisions?
- What aspects of your former identity (ethnic, cultural, socioeconomic) compete with your identity as 'belonging to Jesus Christ'?
- How should the doctrine of effectual calling shape your evangelistic efforts and prayers for the lost?
Cross-References
- References Jesus: 1 Corinthians 1:9, 2 Timothy 1:9, Hebrews 3:1
- References Christ: 1 Peter 2:21
- Parallel theme: Ephesians 1:11, 1 Peter 2:9, 2 Peter 1:10, Revelation 17:14