Romans 1:4 – “and who through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Extended Explanation

This verse is part of Paul’s introduction to his letter to the Romans, where he establishes the identity of Jesus. In the previous verse, Paul emphasized Jesus’ human ancestry as a descendant of David. Now, he highlights Jesus’ divine nature and authority.

Paul states that Jesus was “appointed the Son of God in power” through His resurrection. This does not mean Jesus became the Son of God at the resurrection. He was always the Son of God. Instead, the resurrection publicly declared and confirmed His divine identity in a new and powerful way.

The phrase “through the Spirit of holiness” likely refers to the Holy Spirit, who was active in Jesus’ ministry, resurrection, and the fulfillment of God’s plan. It may also indicate Jesus’ own holy nature.

Paul finishes by declaring that Jesus is “our Lord.” This title, “Lord,” is significant. In Jewish thought, “Lord” (Greek: Kyrios) was often used for God Himself. By calling Jesus “Lord,” Paul is making it clear that He is not just a great teacher or prophet—He is God.

Historical Context

At the time Paul wrote this, both Jewish and Roman audiences would have had strong reactions to these claims about Jesus.

For the Jews, the idea of the Messiah being crucified and then rising from the dead was difficult to accept. Many expected the Messiah to be a political ruler who would free them from Roman rule. Paul, however, is showing that Jesus’ resurrection proves He is more than a king—He is the Son of God.

For the Romans, the title “Lord” was often used for Caesar. Declaring Jesus as Lord was a bold statement that challenged the authority of Rome. The early Christians faced persecution because they refused to call Caesar their ultimate Lord and instead gave that title to Jesus.

This verse would have encouraged the Roman Christians by reminding them that Jesus’ power was greater than any earthly ruler’s.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights several key truths:

1. Jesus is the Son of God in power – He has always been the Son of God, but His resurrection demonstrated His divine power in a new and undeniable way.
2. The Resurrection is proof of Jesus’ identity – The resurrection was the ultimate confirmation that Jesus was who He claimed to be. Without it, Christianity would have no foundation (1 Corinthians 15:17).
3. The Holy Spirit’s role – The “Spirit of holiness” points to the work of the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ ministry and resurrection.
4. Jesus is Lord – Recognizing Jesus as Lord is essential to salvation (Romans 10:9).

Literary Analysis

This verse follows a pattern of contrast:

• In verse 3, Paul emphasizes Jesus’ human nature as a descendant of David.
• In verse 4, he emphasizes Jesus’ divine nature as the Son of God.

Paul also uses the phrase “appointed the Son of God in power.” This does not mean Jesus became the Son of God at the resurrection, but rather that His resurrection revealed His divine power in a way that could not be denied.

The structure of this verse helps establish Jesus’ identity as both fully human and fully divine.

Biblical Cross-References

• Psalm 2:7 – “You are my son; today I have become your father.” This prophecy points to Jesus’ divine appointment.
• Acts 13:33 – Paul quotes Psalm 2:7 in reference to Jesus’ resurrection.
• Matthew 28:18 – After His resurrection, Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”
• Philippians 2:9-11 – After His resurrection, Jesus is exalted and given the name above all names.
• 1 Corinthians 15:17 – “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse reminds us that our faith is grounded in a real, historical event—the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christianity is not just a set of moral teachings; it is based on the truth that Jesus conquered death.

Because Jesus is “the Son of God in power,” we can trust that He has authority over everything in our lives. No matter what challenges we face, He is Lord over all.

The resurrection also gives us hope. If Jesus was raised from the dead, we can be confident that we, too, will have eternal life with Him.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse shows God’s love through His power to conquer death. He did not leave Jesus in the grave, and He does not leave us in our sin and brokenness. Instead, He offers us life through Jesus.

The fact that Jesus is called “our Lord” also shows God’s love. He is not a distant ruler but a personal Lord who calls us into relationship with Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse is entirely about Jesus. It confirms His identity as:

1. The Son of God – His resurrection proves who He is.
2. The Risen Savior – His victory over death is the foundation of our faith.
3. Our Lord – He reigns with power and authority.

Jesus Himself spoke of His resurrection as the key sign of His identity. In John 2:19, He said, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days,” referring to His body.

In John 11:25, He declared, “I am the resurrection and the life.”

Paul’s statement in Romans 1:4 affirms everything Jesus said about Himself.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why is the resurrection so important in proving who Jesus is?
2. How does Jesus’ power as the Son of God give you confidence in your faith?
3. What does it mean to truly recognize Jesus as “Lord” in your daily life?
4. How does the Holy Spirit’s role in Jesus’ resurrection encourage you about His work in your life?
5. In what ways does this verse strengthen your hope for eternal life?