Romans 10:13

for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Study Bible

for
This conjunction connects the preceding verses with the promise that follows. It serves as a bridge, indicating that what is about to be stated is a reason or explanation for the previous argument. In the context of Romans 10, Paul is discussing the righteousness that comes from faith, contrasting it with the law. The use of "for" here emphasizes the inclusivity and accessibility of salvation through faith.

Everyone
The Greek word used here is "πᾶς" (pas), meaning all or every. This term underscores the universality of the gospel message. It is a powerful declaration that salvation is not limited by ethnicity, social status, or past sins. In the historical context of the early church, this was a radical statement, breaking down barriers between Jews and Gentiles and opening the door for all humanity to receive God's grace.

who calls
The phrase "who calls" comes from the Greek "ἐπικαλέω" (epikaleō), which means to call upon or invoke. This implies an active, intentional action of reaching out to God. It is not a passive acknowledgment but a heartfelt plea for divine intervention. In the biblical context, calling on the Lord signifies a deep trust and reliance on God's power and mercy.

on the name of the Lord
The "name of the Lord" refers to the character and authority of God. In Hebrew culture, a name was more than just a label; it represented the essence of a person. Calling on the name of the Lord means recognizing and appealing to His sovereignty, holiness, and ability to save. This phrase echoes the Old Testament, where calling on God's name was an act of worship and dependence (e.g., Joel 2:32).

will be saved
The Greek word for "saved" is "σωθήσεται" (sōthēsetai), which means to be delivered or rescued. This salvation is comprehensive, encompassing deliverance from sin, death, and eternal separation from God. It is a promise of spiritual renewal and eternal life. Historically, this assurance of salvation was a cornerstone of early Christian preaching, offering hope and assurance to believers facing persecution and trials.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the Book of Romans, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological teachings.

2. The Roman Church
The recipients of the letter, the Roman Christians were a diverse group of Jewish and Gentile believers living in the heart of the Roman Empire.

3. Joel the Prophet
The phrase "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" is a quotation from Joel 2:32, indicating the continuity of God's promise from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

Teaching Points

The Universality of Salvation
Salvation is available to "everyone" who calls on the Lord, breaking down barriers of ethnicity, background, and past sins.

The Power of the Name of the Lord
The Greek word for "calls" (epikale?) implies an earnest invocation, suggesting that calling on the Lord is an act of faith and dependence.

Faith and Confession
Calling on the Lord is an expression of faith, aligning with Paul's teaching in Romans 10:9-10 about confessing with the mouth and believing in the heart.

The Urgency of the Gospel
This verse underscores the need for evangelism, as it assures that anyone who calls on the Lord will be saved, motivating believers to share the Gospel.

Assurance of Salvation
Believers can have confidence in their salvation, knowing that God's promise is sure and that calling on His name is sufficient for salvation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of Romans 10:13 within the chapter enhance our understanding of the verse's meaning?

2. In what ways does the promise in Romans 10:13 encourage us to share the Gospel with others?

3. How does the concept of "calling on the name of the Lord" relate to our daily walk with Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can help others understand the significance of calling on the Lord for salvation?

5. How do the connections to Joel 2:32 and Acts 2:21 deepen our understanding of God's plan for salvation throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 2:32
This Old Testament prophecy is directly quoted in Romans 10:13, emphasizing the universality of God's salvation promise.

Acts 2:21
Peter quotes the same passage from Joel during his sermon at Pentecost, highlighting the fulfillment of prophecy through Jesus Christ.

Philippians 2:9-11
This passage speaks of the exaltation of Jesus and the power of His name, reinforcing the importance of calling on His name for salvation.