Romans 15:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 15:11
11 And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people.
Chapter Context
Romans 15 is a theological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, discipleship, covenant. 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 21-33: 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 15:11
11 And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people.
Analysis
And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people (καὶ πάλιν· Αἰνεῖτε, πάντα τὰ ἔθνη, τὸν κύριον, καὶ ἐπαινεσάτωσαν αὐτὸν πάντες οἱ λαοί, kai palin· Aineite, panta ta ethnē, ton kyrion, kai epainesatōsan auton pantes hoi laoi)—Paul's third quotation, from Psalm 117:1, universalizes the call: panta ta ethnē (all the Gentiles/nations) and pantes hoi laoi (all the peoples)—comprehensive inclusion. The verbs aineite (praise) and epainesatōsan (laud, extol) are worship terms. The entire human family is summoned to worship ton kyrion (the Lord)—in Christian reading, this Kyrios is Jesus (cf. Phil 2:9-11).
Psalm 117 is the Bible's shortest psalm but makes the grandest claim: universal worship of YHWH. What seemed hyperbolic in the psalmist's day Paul sees fulfilled in the gospel's global reach. The church's mission to disciple panta ta ethnē (Matt 28:19) fulfills the psalter's call. Every tribe and tongue praising Christ realizes Scripture's vision.
Historical Context
Psalm 117 was part of the Hallel psalms (113-118) sung at Passover. Jesus likely sang this psalm at the Last Supper (Matt 26:30). Paul's use connects Gentile worship to Israel's liturgical tradition—Gentile believers join the song Israel has always sung, now understanding its full, Christ-centered meaning. This continuity between synagogue and church worship was theologically vital.
Reflection
- How does Psalm 117's call for universal praise shape your understanding of the Great Commission and global missions?
- What does it mean for you personally to join 'all peoples' in lauding the Lord—what does your worship contribute to this cosmic chorus?
- How can your church better reflect the 'all nations, all peoples' inclusiveness that Scripture envisions?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Psalms 117:1