What does Romans 15:9 mean?

And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. Romans 15:9

Explanation

Romans 15:9 is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible that speaks to the inclusion of Gentiles in the worship and praise of the God of Israel. In this context, ‘Gentiles’ refers to all non-Jewish people. The verse underscores that God’s mercy extends to all, and as a result, Gentiles are called to glorify God. It has a two-fold meaning: literally speaking of the historical event of Gentiles turning to the God of Israel, and symbolically, suggesting a breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles. The verse also implies that praise to God is not confined to any one nation or ethnicity but is to be a universal act among all peoples.

Historical Context

Romans is an epistle written by the Apostle Paul to the Christians in Rome. It includes a rich theological treatise on salvation, justification, sanctification, and the role of Israel. The letter is dated to around 57 A.D. Romans 15:9 comes from a section where Paul discusses the unity between Jewish and Gentile believers, emphasizing that salvation through Jesus Christ is available to all. The verse also reflects the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecies that foresaw the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s redemptive plan.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Romans 15:9 affirms the mercy of God toward all humanity. It highlights the fulfillment of prophecy, as the inclusion of the Gentiles was foretold in the Hebrew Scriptures. It also points to the messianic mission of Jesus, who came as a servant to the Jews to show God’s truthfulness and to extend mercy to the Gentiles. The verse underlines the universal scope of the Gospel and the breaking down of the ‘middle wall of partition’ between Jew and Gentile, creating one new humanity in Christ (Ephesians 2:14).

Practical Applications

The verse encourages believers to live out the unity that the Gospel proclaims. This unity transcends cultural, racial, and ethnic divisions. In daily life, it calls for inclusion, hospitality, and the celebration of diversity within the body of Christ. Christians are also reminded to be agents of reconciliation, building bridges between different peoples and cultures, and showcasing the love and mercy of God.

Cross-References

• Psalm 18:49: “Therefore will I give thanks unto thee, O LORD, among the heathen, and sing praises unto thy name.”
• Ephesians 2:14: “For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;”
• Isaiah 11:10: “And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.”

Language Study

Key words in Romans 15:9 include:

• “Gentiles” (Greek: “ethnē”): Often referred to nations other than Israel. It signifies people groups outside of the Jewish heritage.
• “Glorify” (Greek: “doxazō”): To honor, praise, or exalt. It indicates giving recognition to God’s mercy.
• “Mercy” (Greek: “eleos”): Refers to compassion or pity that is shown to one who is undeserving or in a vulnerable position.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader cultural and religious context of the time, the recognition of Gentiles by a Jewish prophet or messiah was significant. Ancient myths and religions often had a patron deity associated with a particular people or city. In contrast, the God of Israel, according to both Jewish and Christian understanding, was reaching out to all nations, breaking the norm of religious exclusivity.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly intersect with scientific concepts, modern understandings of ethnology and anthropology affirm the biological unity and common ancestry of humanity. The inclusive message of Romans 15:9 may resonate with the scientific view that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all human beings regardless of ethnic or cultural differences.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentators and theologians interpret Romans 15:9 as reinforcing the theme of inclusion found throughout the epistle. Matthew Henry’s commentary suggests that the harmony of Jewish and Gentile Christians glorifying God together is a fulfillment of the promise that Christ would be a light to the Gentiles. John Calvin views it as a call and encouragement for unity in worship. Many such commentaries also highlight how this verse reflects the character of God as one who is merciful to all and the work of Christ in making this unity possible.