Romans 1:16
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
Romans 1:16
This is one of the apostle’s clearest statements of the gospel’s power and universality. “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ” proclaims fearless boldness in the face of social pressure, persecution, or philosophical hostility. The gospel is “the power of God unto salvation” for everyone who believes—first for the Jew, then for the Greek. The “power” here means God’s saving, transforming energy that brings about a justifying faith and new life. The phrase “to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” reflects Paul’s mission strategy: the gospel enters first into the historic people of God (Israel) and then expands to Gentiles, culminating in a unified people of God. The verse also hints at the broader pattern of divine order and priority in salvation history while emphasizing accessibility to all who believe.
The central theological themes are the necessity of faith, the universality of salvation, and the integrity of the gospel message. It declares salvation-by-faith, not by works or status, and asserts that God’s saving power is available to all who trust Christ. The “Jews first” phrase should be understood in the historical-political sense of order and mission, not exclusivity; it foreshadows how the gospel becomes a global witness. This verse anchors justification by faith as the chief theme of Romans and underscores that the gospel does not oscillate between cultural lines but unifies diverse peoples in Christ.
How might you respond to a culture that prizes status or seeks to redefine truth? The answer is courage to embrace the gospel openly. This verse invites believers to own their faith publicly, to resist shame, and to live in ways that demonstrate the gospel’s transforming power. Practical steps: articulate your faith clearly in conversations, stand by the marginalized in your community, and celebrate the inclusion of diverse people in your church and life. Remember the gospel is powerful to save—so rely on God’s power in prayer, mission, and everyday witness.
Cross-References: Galatians 3:28; 1 Corinthians 1:23-24; Ephesians 1:13; Romans 3:22; Titus 1:2