What does Romans 10:13 mean?

Explanation

Romans 10:13 states, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." This promise from the Apostle Paul's letter to the Romans is profound in its simplicity and inclusiveness.

Literally, it means that salvation, rescue from sin and its consequences, is available to anyone who earnestly reaches out to God, recognizing His lordship.

This call is not a superficial utterance but rather an authentic appeal to God, acknowledging a need for His grace and mercy.

The deeper meaning encompasses the universal offer of salvation extended to humanity through Jesus Christ, without discrimination or preconditions based on ethnicity, social status, or personal history.

Historical Context

Romans was written by Paul around A.D. 56-58 to the Christian church in Rome, which was a diverse community of both Jews and Gentiles.

The larger context of Romans chapter 10 highlights the contrast between righteousness based on the law, which Paul argues is unattainable, and righteousness based on faith in Christ.

Paul is making the point that while Israel sought righteousness through the law, it is actually through faith in Christ that righteousness and salvation are available to all people.

The quote from Joel 2:32, "And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered," is used by Paul to emphasize that salvation through Jesus is available to anyone who believes.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, Romans 10:13 encapsulates the doctrine of Soteriology, the study of salvation. Several viewpoints can be considered:

• Evangelical Viewpoint: There is an emphasis on the necessity of individual response to God's offer of salvation.

It is believed that personal faith in Jesus Christ is the sole basis for salvation.

• Calvinist Viewpoint: While affirming the need for faith, this perspective might emphasize the sovereignty of God in the process of salvation and predestination.
• Arminian Viewpoint: This view stresses the free will of individuals to accept or reject God’s grace.
• Catholic Viewpoint: The necessity of faith is acknowledged, but there is also an emphasis on the role of the Church and sacraments as means through which God imparts saving grace.

Practical Applications

The verse Romans 10:13 can be applied to daily life in many ways:

• Evangelism: It can encourage believers to share their faith, knowing that salvation is available to all.
• Inclusivity: It serves as a reminder that no person is beyond the reach of God’s grace.
• Hope and Assurance: For those who doubt their salvation, this verse offers a promise that they can cling to as assurance.
• Intercession: It inspires prayers for others, believing that God’s salvation is available to them as well.

Cross-References

• Joel 2:32 - "And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered..."
• Acts 2:21 - "And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved."
• John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Language Study

In the original Greek, "call upon" (ἐπικαλέσηται - epikalesetai) implies not just uttering a name but an appeal to authority and a trusting relationship with the one being called upon.

The term "Lord" (Κύριον - Kurion) reflects a title for God or Jesus that denotes power and authority.

"Saved" (σωθήσεται - sothesetai) encompasses being rescued from danger or destruction, often interpreted in a spiritual sense as salvation from sin.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient times, calling on the name of a deity was common in several cultures and religions, signifying an appeal for assistance or favor.

While similar in form, the Christian context of calling on the Lord distinguishes itself by linking the invocation directly to salvation rather than to more immediate or temporal needs.

Moreover, the monotheistic conception of a single all-powerful God in Christianity contrasts with the polytheistic practices common in other ancient religions.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understandings generally do not intersect directly with matters of faith and spirituality, as they deal with different domains of inquiry.

However, psychology might explore the impact of religious belief on human behavior and well-being. Studies may investigate the effects of practices like prayer on mental health, suggesting benefits such as reduced stress and increased feelings of hope.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer insights into Romans 10:13:

• John Stott: Emphasized the universal offer of the gospel, where 'whosoever' genuinely calls on the Lord will be saved, regardless of background.
• Douglas Moo: Discusses the significance of the word 'call,' suggesting that it is not just any kind of calling on God that saves, but calling in faith.
• Matthew Henry: Saw this verse as an indication of the free and rich grace of the gospel which is offered to all who believe.