Thoughts on the Epistle to the Romans (7) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 1:7

Thoughts on the Epistle to the Romans (7)
In verse 6, Paul designated the Christians in Rome as "the called of Jesus Christ". Now in verse 7, they bear the honourable titles of "beloved of God" in this sense. God indeed so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, but if someone does not believe on the Son, the "wrath of God abides on him" (John 3:16&36). Whoever accepts the gospel by faith, as did the Christians in Rome, is a child of God, truly one "beloved of God".
The Christians in Rome, were, moreover, "called to be saints", like all the children of God today. Whoever wishes to know how one becomes a saint finds the answer here: through calling, namely calling by Jesus Christ.
Neither a life of commendable piety or the performing of miracles is the pre-requisite for becoming a saint, but the call of Jesus Christ in the gospel and obediently responding to His call.
By means of this call, God takes out of the nations "a people for his name" (Acts 15:14). This is the explanation of the meaning of the word "holy": being taken from the sphere of the world and everyday life and dedicated to God. This principle applies to every child of God. But every sincere Christian will endeavour to lead his life truly for God.
For this we need divine grace and peace day by day, just as Paul wished the believers in Rome.
(to be continued next Sunday)
Today's reading: Titus 1