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:

ROMANS 16:26KJV
Know the Bible

Romans 16:26 (KJV)

What does Romans 16:26 mean?

Romans 16:26 says that God’s long-hidden message has now been revealed and made clear to everyone, just as the ancient prophetic writings said it would be, following God’s eternal command. This message is now shared with all nations so that people everywhere may respond with faith and obedience.

Paul, writing to believers in Rome, is wrapping up his letter by highlighting how the good news about Jesus—once a mystery—is now openly proclaimed. He points out that this was always part of God’s plan, shown in the writings of the prophets, and that the message is for all peoples, not just one group. The goal is that everyone, from any nation, would trust God and live in faithful obedience.

The Greek behind Romans 16:26

  • "ἐφανερώθη" (phanerōthē, "manifest"): This word means "made visible" or "revealed." Paul uses it to stress that what was once hidden is now out in the open for all to see.
  • "γραφῶν" (graphōn, "scriptures"): This refers to the sacred writings, especially those of the prophets. Paul is grounding the gospel’s revelation in the authority of these ancient texts.
  • "ἐθνῶσιν" (ethnosin, "nations"): This word means "nations" or "peoples," emphasizing that the message is not just for Israel but for everyone, everywhere.
  • "ὑπακοὴν πίστεως" (hypakoēn pisteōs, "obedience of faith"): This phrase ties together trust and action—Paul is saying the right response to God’s message is both believing and living accordingly.

Why Romans 16:26 matters

  • Romans 16:26 clarifies that the gospel is not a new idea but the fulfillment of promises found in the prophets’ writings, showing God’s consistency and faithfulness.
  • The verse emphasizes that God’s message is for all nations, not just a select group, highlighting the universal scope of the Christian faith.
  • Paul’s focus on “obedience of faith” connects belief and action, reminding readers that genuine faith naturally leads to a changed life.

Where else these words appear

“prophets” Greek G4397 · used in 2 verses

  • 2 Peter 1:19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

“commandment” Greek G2003 · used in 7 verses

  • 1 Corinthians 7:6 But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:8 I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.
  • Titus 1:3 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;

“obedience” Greek G5218 · used in 14 verses

  • Romans 1:5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:
  • Romans 16:19 For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.
  • Philemon 1:21 Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

“known” Greek G1107 · used in 23 verses

  • Luke 2:15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
  • Ephesians 6:19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,