Romans chapter 10 speaks directly to our hearts about the simplicity and power of faith in Christ. Paul expresses his deep longing for Israel to be saved, yet he acknowledges that many have tried to attain righteousness through their own efforts rather than by trusting in God’s grace. As we read this chapter, we are reminded that salvation is not about what we can achieve but about what God has already done for us through Jesus.
Paul begins by sharing his heartfelt desire for his fellow Israelites to experience salvation. He recognizes their zeal for God but points out that their passion is misdirected because it is based on works rather than faith. This resonates with us because we often fall into the same trap—thinking that if we try hard enough, do enough good deeds, or follow religious traditions perfectly, we can earn God’s favor. However, Paul makes it clear that righteousness does not come from our own efforts but through faith in Christ.
One of the most profound statements in this chapter is that "Christ is the fulfillment of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes." This means that Jesus accomplished what the law required, and through Him, we receive the righteousness that we could never attain on our own. The law was meant to point us to our need for a Savior, and Jesus is that Savior. When we put our trust in Him, we are no longer striving to prove ourselves before God—He has already made us right through His grace.
Paul then contrasts two ways of seeking righteousness. On one hand, there is the righteousness based on the law, which depends on human effort. On the other hand, there is the righteousness based on faith, which comes from trusting in Christ. He references the Old Testament to emphasize that we do not need to ascend to heaven to bring Christ down or descend into the depths to bring Him up. The message of salvation is already near us; it is in our mouths and in our hearts. This reminds us that God’s grace is not something distant or difficult to reach—it is right here, available to us if we believe.
At the heart of this chapter is the beautiful and simple truth of the gospel: "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." This verse is a powerful assurance for all of us. Salvation does not require a long list of religious rituals or moral achievements. It is as simple as placing our faith in Jesus and declaring our trust in Him. Paul reinforces this by saying that "with the heart, one believes resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made resulting in salvation." Faith is not just an intellectual agreement—it is a deep, personal trust that leads us to openly acknowledge Jesus as Lord.
Paul also emphasizes that this salvation is available to everyone, both Jews and Gentiles. "Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed," he assures us. There is no distinction between people groups; the same Lord is Lord of all, and He generously blesses all who call on Him. This is a powerful reminder that God’s grace is for every one of us, no matter our background, past mistakes, or failures. "Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved." This is a promise that gives us confidence and hope.
However, Paul also highlights a pressing issue: if salvation comes through faith in Christ, then people need to hear about Him in order to believe. He asks, "How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher?" This passage challenges us to consider our role in sharing the gospel. If we have experienced the goodness of salvation, then we are called to share it with others so that they, too, can have the opportunity to believe.
Paul reminds us that "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ." This encourages us to keep engaging with God’s Word, because it strengthens our faith and equips us to share it with others. The more we immerse ourselves in Scripture, the more we grow in our understanding of God’s grace and His plan for salvation.
As the chapter comes to a close, Paul reflects on Israel’s response to the gospel. Although the message has gone out, not everyone has accepted it. He quotes Isaiah, saying, "Lord, who has believed our report?" This reminds us that while salvation is available to all, not everyone will choose to accept it. Even though Israel had heard the message, many remained in unbelief. Yet, Paul reassures us that God’s arms are still open, waiting for those who will turn to Him.
Romans 10 calls us to a simple but life-changing faith in Jesus. It reminds us that righteousness is not something we earn but something we receive through trusting in Him. It urges us to share the gospel with others so that they, too, can experience the salvation we have found. And it encourages us to trust in the unfailing promise that whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.