What is the meaning of Romans 10:17? Consequently Paul has just asked, “How can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard?” (Romans 10:14). The word “Consequently” (or “So then”) links this verse to that chain of logic: preaching ➜ hearing ➜ believing ➜ calling on the Lord ➜ salvation. Romans 10:16 echoes Isaiah 53:1, showing many still refuse the gospel, yet the order God established remains. See also 2 Corinthians 5:20, where ambassadors implore people to be reconciled to God. faith comes Faith is not self-generated; it “comes.” • Ephesians 2:8-9—“For it is by grace you have been saved through faith… it is the gift of God.” • Hebrews 12:2—Jesus is “the author and perfecter of our faith.” • Philippians 1:29—“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ… to believe in Him.” God initiates and supplies what He demands. Our role is to respond. by hearing The delivery method is audible proclamation or readable message. • 1 Corinthians 1:21—“God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.” • Acts 10:44—While Peter was speaking, the Holy Spirit fell on listeners. • Luke 8:18—“Therefore consider carefully how you listen.” Hearing opens the door, but only when the message enters the heart (Acts 16:14). and hearing Paul repeats the verb to stress that real hearing is more than sound waves. • James 1:22—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” • Matthew 13:15—A dull heart blocks understanding; repentance restores hearing. • Mark 4:24—“Pay attention to what you hear.” Saving hearing is receptive, obedient, and humble. by the word of Christ The content that produces faith is specifically the gospel centered on Christ. • John 6:68—“Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words of eternal life.” • 2 Timothy 3:15—Scripture “is able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” • 1 Peter 1:23—We are “born again… through the living and enduring word of God.” The preached Scripture is living, authoritative, and sufficient to awaken faith. summary Romans 10:17 teaches that God creates saving faith through the proclaimed word about Christ. He ordained that people hear Scripture’s message, truly receive it, and believe. Therefore, proclaiming the Bible remains the indispensable means God uses to call sinners, strengthen saints, and advance His kingdom. |
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