14 I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. 15 That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome. 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
*Commentary* After Saul’s/Paul’s conversion, Paul was given guidance by God to be an apostle and teacher of Christ. This includes all people, including gentiles. As Paul states in verse 14, he is obligated to Greeks and non-Greeks. It’s unknown why Paul states he isn’t ashamed. We can probably assume there was an accusation of either Paul or someone in the church. Point is, Paul sharply points out that he is not ashamed of the gospel. Because, only believers will receive salvation. In verse 17, Paul quotes Habakkuk 2:4 “The righteous will live by faith.” What he’s saying here, is that laws have no determination in who receives salvation, but faith does.
- Where is righteousness revealed?
- Does a person who breaks no laws, but also does not have faith in God, earn a place in Heaven?
- In verse 16 Paul says, “first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” Why?