Romans 16:25 (KJV)

What does Romans 16:25 mean?

Romans 16:25 describes how God has the power to make believers strong and secure in their faith, doing so through the message Paul calls "my gospel" and the proclamation about Jesus Christ. This strengthening is based on a truth that was hidden for ages but has now been revealed.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Rome, closing his letter by praising God for His ability to establish them in the faith. He points to his own gospel message and the preaching about Jesus as the means God uses. Paul also refers to a "mystery"—a truth about God's plan that was kept secret for a long time but is now being made known through Jesus.

The Greek behind Romans 16:25

• "Power" (δύναμαι, dynamai): This word means the ability or strength to do something. Here, it emphasizes that God is fully able to make believers firm and steadfast.
• "Stablish" (στηρίζω, stērizō): Often understood as making someone stable, firm, or unwavering. Paul is highlighting God's role in giving believers a solid foundation in their faith.
• "Mystery" (μυστήριον, mystērion): In Paul's letters, this word usually refers to a divine truth that was hidden in the past but is now revealed. Here, it points to God's plan in Christ, once secret but now openly proclaimed.
• "Secret" (σιωπάω, siōpaō): This word carries the sense of something kept silent or concealed. Paul is stressing that the message about Jesus was not fully known in earlier times.

Why Romans 16:25 matters

• Romans 16:25 clarifies that the Christian faith is not based on human strength but on God's power to establish and secure believers.
• The verse highlights the importance of the gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ as the foundation for spiritual stability.
• By mentioning the "mystery" now revealed, Paul connects the story of Jesus to God's larger plan, showing that what was once hidden is now available to all through the message of Christ.