How does Romans 1:4 affirm Jesus' divine nature and authority in our lives? The Heart of the Verse “and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.” — Romans 1:4 Declared—Not Made—the Son of God • “Declared” (Greek horizō) means “marked out, appointed, openly shown.” • Jesus was always the Son; the resurrection simply unveiled that eternal reality to the world. • Parallel truth: John 1:1 – “In the beginning was the Word… the Word was God.” He didn’t become divine; He has always been divine. The Spirit of Holiness • Title highlights the Holy Spirit’s active role in Christ’s earthly life and resurrection (Romans 8:11). • This same Spirit testifies within believers that Jesus is Lord (1 Corinthians 12:3). Resurrection Power Confirms Divine Nature • Acts 2:24: “God raised Him up, releasing Him from the agony of death.” Only God holds power over death. • 1 Corinthians 15:54–55: Death is swallowed up in victory—an attribute belonging to deity alone. Authority Flowing From the Resurrection • Matthew 28:18: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” • Philippians 2:9–11: God highly exalted Him so every knee will bow. • Because He lives, He commands, commissions, and empowers His people. Connected Portraits of Christ’s Supremacy • Colossians 1:15–17 — Creator and sustainer of all things. • Hebrews 1:3 — “The radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature.” • Revelation 1:17–18 — “I am the First and the Last… I am alive forevermore, and I hold the keys of death and Hades.” What This Means for Us Today • Confidence: Our faith rests on a living, victorious Savior. • Obedience: His lordship calls for joyful submission in every area of life. • Bold Witness: The same Spirit who raised Jesus emboldens us to proclaim Him. • Hope: The resurrection guarantees our future resurrection (Romans 8:11). • Worship: Recognizing His divine authority fuels heartfelt adoration day by day. |
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