Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Romans 1:1

"Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called [to be] an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God," — Romans 1:1 (ASV)

As in all his letters, Paul uses his Roman name (cf. Acts 13:6–12). His relation to Christ is primary, so to express his attachment to his Lord he uses the term “servant” (GK 1528). In Israel the citizenry regarded themselves as servants of their king. This same word is used of Christ in relation to the Father . By beginning in this fashion, Paul is putting himself on the same plane as his readers; he does not seek to dominate them.

The word “apostle” (GK 693) sets forth his authority as Christ’s appointee— his right not only to preach the Gospel (believers in general can do that) but to found and supervise churches and to discipline them if necessary. But this authority carries with it responsibility, for he must give account of the conduct of his mission (1 Corinthians 4:1–4).

Paul has been “set apart” ever since his conversion (Acts 9:15; Galatians 1:12) for the Gospel of God. As a Pharisee he had been set apart to a life of strict observance of Jewish law and custom. Now his life’s work is to further the Gospel, the Good News that God has for all humanity.