Called, Loved, Set Apart
Three Gospel Truths from Romans 1:6-7
The opening of Paul’s letter to the Romans is one of the most theologically rich passages in Scripture. In just a few short verses, Paul unpacks profound truths about who Christians are and what God has done for them. I Romans 1:6-7, Paul highlights three key truths about believers:
1. Christians Are Called by Christ
2. Christians Are Loved by Go
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3. Christians Are Called to Be Saints
Christians Are Called by Christ
Paul begins by reminding the Roman believers that they are “called to belong to Jesus Christ” (v. 6). This isn’t just a generic statement; it’s deeply personal. Paul shifts from speaking about the nations to addressing individuals: “including you.”
Christian, your calling is not by accident. It’s not happenstance that you are part of God’s people. You didn’t stumble into faith because of your own efforts. You are a Christian because God called you out of sin and death into life in Christ.
As John 1:13 reminds us, those who are born of God are born “not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” It’s God who takes the initiative, reaching down to rescue us when we could never reach up to Him.
This truth is immensely encouraging. If you are in Christ, you are called, justified, and glorified (Romans 8:30). God’s promises are so sure that Paul speaks of them as if they’ve already happened. Whatever you face—whether sickness, death, or trials—know this: God’s call guarantees your salvation.
Christians Are Loved by God
In verse 7, Paul addresses the believers in Rome as “loved by God.” Think about how powerful those words would have been to the Roman Christians. They lived in a hostile environment, despised for their faith and, for many of them, their Jewish heritage. Yet, Paul assures them: you are loved by God.
The world, the flesh, and the devil often promise love but never deliver. Sin lures us with false promises of satisfaction, leaving us empty and longing for more. But God’s love is steadfast, unchanging, and complete.
HIs love isn’t dependent on who you are or what you’ve done. It doesn’t matter what mistakes you’ve made, how weak your faith feels, or how cold your heart may be. God’s attitude toward His children is one of perfect love. When He looks at you, He doesn’t see guilt or shame. He sees someone He cherishes.
If you’re struggling with feelings of unworthiness, hear this: You are loved by God. Let that truth silence the lies of the enemy and give you peace.
Christians Are Called to Be Saints
Finally, Paul says that Christians are “called to be saints” (v. 7). This phrase carries the idea of being set apart, consecrated, and devoted to God. Being a saint isn’t about achieving some level of spiritual greatness—it’s about belonging to God.
When God calls you, He doesn’t just save you from sin; He saves you for a purpose. You are set apart to live a life of godliness and obedience. As Paul writes in Ephesians 1:4, God chose us “before the foundation of the world… that we should be holy and blameless before Him.”
And being called to be a saint isn’t just about personal holiness—it’s about living in close fellowship with God and walking with Him daily. This call is all-consuming. It’s not something you can compartmentalize or approach half-heartedly. God calls you out of the world and to Himself.
As Ligon Duncan aptly puts it, “the gospel isn’t something that only touches parts of our lives. It claims every area of our existence. There’s no room for divided loyalties. When God calls, He calls us completely.”
Grace and Peace
Paul closes these verses with a greeting: “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Grace is God’s undeserved kindness, extended to us in Christ. Peace is the result of that grace—the restoration of our relationship with God.
Because of Christ’s sacrifice, the alienation caused by sin is gone. We no longer live under the weight of guilt or fear of wrath. Instead, we live in peace with God, justified by faith (Romans 5:1).
As you reflect on these truths, take time to praise God for all He has done. You are called by Christ, loved by God, and set apart as His saint. Grace and peace are yours through Jesus Christ. What a gift!
Let these truths shape your life, your worship, and your walk with the Lord.