Epiphany · The Third Sunday after the Epiphany
Romans 1:8-17
Paul’s Longing to Visit Rome
January 25, 2026
Overview & Insights
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” (Romans 1:16)
Romans 1:1–7 forms the first half of Paul’s introduction to Romans (1:8–15 is the second half). The introduction, or prescript, to ancient letters consisted of three parts: identification of the author, identification of the recipients, and a salutation or greeting to the recipients. Thus, these are the three parts for Romans 1:1–7: 1. Sender: Paul (1:1–6) 2. Recipient: To those in Rome (1:7a) 3. Greeting: Grace and peace (1:7b) The sender/author component in 1:1–6 is probably so extensive because Paul is introducing himself to the Christians at Rome for the first time. There is an inclusio—an opening idea of a text that is stated, developed, and then returned to at the conclusion—for the whole book of Romans centering on the “gospel” (compare 1:1, 2, 9, 15 with 15:16, 19; 16:25–27). Indeed, “gospel” receives pride of place, occurring in the letter’s thematic statement in 1:16–17.
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Take it further: Romans 1:8-17
Commentary
Romans 1 (Enduring Word)Rom 1 (Enduring Word) Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik covers Paul's thanksgiving, his longing to visit Rome, and his confidence in the gospel.
Romans 1:8 Classic Commentaries ComparedRom 1:8 Classic Commentaries Compared BibleHub
Sets historic commentators alongside one another on Paul's opening address to the Romans.
Romans 1:8-10 CommentaryRom 1:8-10 Commentary Precept Austin
Detailed word study and cross references on Paul's thanksgiving and prayer for the Roman church.
Background & Word Study
Romans 1:8 Greek InterlinearRom 1:8 Greek Interlinear BibleHub
Greek text with parsing for the key terms in Paul's thesis that the gospel is God's power for salvation.
Book of Romans Summary (chapters 1-4)Book of Rom Summary (chapters 1-4) BibleProject
Animated overview of the opening argument of Romans, including the gospel and God's righteousness.
Romans and WorkRom and Work Theology of Work
Reads Romans through its implications for daily vocation and life together, a fresh angle on Paul's gospel.
Questions preachers ask
How does Paul open Romans?
Longing to visit the Roman church and preach among them, Paul declares himself eager and unashamed, for the gospel reveals the righteousness of God from faith for faith.
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