By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:

ROMANS 1:5KJV
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Romans 1:5 (KJV)

What does Romans 1:5 mean?

Romans 1:5 says that through Jesus Christ, Paul and others have received both grace and the role of apostles, with the purpose of bringing people from all nations to obey and trust in the faith, all for the honor of Jesus’ name. The verse highlights that this calling is not just for one group, but is meant to reach everyone.

Paul is writing to believers in Rome, introducing himself and his mission. He explains that his authority and mission as an apostle come from Jesus, and that his goal is to encourage obedience that comes from faith among all nations. This sets the tone for the rest of the letter, showing that the message of Jesus is meant for the whole world, not just for Jews.

The Greek behind Romans 1:5

  • χάριν (charin, G5485) — "grace": This word means an undeserved gift or favor. Paul emphasizes that his role and ability come from God’s generosity, not from his own merit.
  • ἀποστολήν (apostolēn, G651) — "apostleship": This refers to being sent out with authority. Paul is not just a believer, but someone sent with a specific mission to spread the message.
  • ὑπακοὴν (hypakoēn, G5218) — "obedience": This word means listening and responding, not just following rules. Paul’s goal is to bring about a response of trust and action, not just agreement.
  • πίστις (pistis, G4102) — "faith": This word means trust or belief. The obedience Paul seeks is rooted in trusting God, not just outward actions.

Why Romans 1:5 matters

  • Romans 1:5 clarifies that Paul’s authority and mission are rooted in God’s grace, not personal achievement, which helps prevent misunderstandings about spiritual leadership.
  • The verse shows that the message of Jesus is meant for all nations, not just one group, setting up the theme of unity and inclusion that runs through Romans.
  • By linking obedience and faith, Romans 1:5 helps readers see that true faith naturally leads to a changed life, not just a set of beliefs.

Where else these words appear

“apostleship” Greek G651 · used in 4 verses

  • Acts 1:25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.
  • 1 Corinthians 9:2 If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.
  • Galatians 2:8 (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)

“obedience” Greek G5218 · used in 14 verses

  • Romans 5:19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.
  • Romans 16:26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
  • Philemon 1:21 Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

“for” Greek G5228 · used in 144 verses

  • Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
  • Romans 16:4 Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.
  • Ephesians 3:13 Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.

“grace” Greek G5485 · used in 147 verses

  • Luke 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;
  • Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.