What is the meaning of Romans 16:26? But now revealed - “The mystery that was hidden for ages and generations but is now revealed to His saints” (Colossians 1:26) underscores that God’s saving plan, once veiled, is openly displayed in the person and work of Jesus. - This “now” points to the cross, the empty tomb, and the giving of the Spirit (Hebrews 1:1-2; Acts 2:32-33). - What once seemed obscure in the Old Testament snapshots has come into full color: Christ is the long-promised Savior for Jew and Gentile alike (Ephesians 3:4-6). Made known through the writings of the prophets - God did not improvise the gospel; He wove it into prophetic Scripture. Isaiah foresaw the suffering Servant (Isaiah 53:5-6); Jeremiah promised a new covenant written on hearts (Jeremiah 31:31-34); Micah named Bethlehem as Messiah’s birthplace (Micah 5:2). - Jesus Himself tied His mission to these writings: “Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was written in all the Scriptures about Himself” (Luke 24:27). - Peter echoed the same: “All the prophets testify about Him that everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name” (Acts 10:43). By the command of the eternal God - Salvation history unfolds according to divine decree, not human initiative. “I am God, and there is none like Me… My purpose will be established, and I will accomplish all My good pleasure” (Isaiah 46:9-10). - Paul’s own commission reflects that command: “I have made you a light for the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the ends of the earth” (Acts 13:47). - Because the command comes from the “eternal God,” the message is timeless, trustworthy, and irrevocable (Titus 1:2; Revelation 14:6). In order to lead all nations - From the first promise to Abraham—“All the families of the earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3)—God’s heart has pulsed for every people group. - Jesus’ Great Commission mirrors that scope: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). - Pentecost previewed the harvest, as people from “every nation under heaven” heard the wonders of God in their own tongues (Acts 2:5-11). To the obedience that comes from faith - Faith and obedience are inseparable. Paul opened Romans with the same phrase: “Through Him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience of faith” (Romans 1:5). - True faith yields a life that bows to Christ’s lordship (John 14:15; James 2:17). - Obedience is not a ladder by which we climb to God; it is the fruit that springs from trusting the gospel (Ephesians 2:8-10). summary Romans 16:26 celebrates the climactic unveiling of God’s age-old plan. What was concealed is now revealed in Christ, certified by the prophets, authorized by the eternal God, broadcast to every nation, and aimed at producing a faith-born obedience. The verse invites us to marvel at God’s sovereign wisdom and to join the global chorus of those who trust and obey His Son. |