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For God is my witness, whom I serve in my spirit in the gospel of his Son, how unceasingly I make mention of you always in my prayers,

Verse Takeaways

1

Service from the Spirit

Paul emphasizes that his service to God is "in my spirit." Commentators explain this means his devotion is not merely external or ritualistic, but internal, sincere, and heartfelt. It is a service that flows from the highest part of a person, in contrast to a mere "outward mask of religion," as John Calvin puts it. This sets the standard for all Christian service: it must be genuine and come from the heart.

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Book Overview

Romans

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Commentaries

8

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Romans 1:9

18th Century

Theologian

For God is my witness. The reason for this strong appeal to God is to show the Romans the deep interest that he felt in their welfare. Thi…

AT Robertson

AT Robertson

On Romans 1:9

I serve (λατρευω). Old verb from λατρον, hire, and λατρις, hireling, so to serve for hire, then to serve in general gods or men, w…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Romans 1:9

19th Century

Bishop

Proof that the Apostle takes this lively interest in the Roman Church is conveyed through a solemn adjuration.

Whom I serve.

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Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon

On Romans 1:9

19th Century

Preacher

This man, Paul, did a great deal by prayer. I remember a minister, who is now with the Lord, who was thanked by his people for his wonderful sermon…

Expositor's Bible Commentary

Expositor's Bible Commentary

On Romans 1:9

The salutation has been unusually long; but instead of moving on immediately to his main theme, the apostle still lingers over introductory matters…

John Calvin

John Calvin

On Romans 1:9

16th Century

Theologian

For God is my witness, etc. He proves his love by its effects; for if he had not greatly loved them, he would not have so anxious…

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John Gill

John Gill

On Romans 1:9

17th Century

Pastor

For God is my witness, whom I serve
These words are an appeal to God, and carry in them the nature and form of an oath; the re…

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Romans 1:8–15

17th Century

Minister

We must show love for our friends, not only by praying for them, but by praising God for them.

As in our purposes, so in our desires, we mus…