The 3 Ways Paul Referred to the Christians in Rome
Thinking about Romans 1:6-7.
Among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ; To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 1:6-7)
Paul referred to the Christians in Rome in three different ways: the called of Jesus Christ, beloved of God, and “called saints.”
The called of Jesus Christ.
The Christians in Rome were Jesus Christ’s called ones. Paul spoke of the Christians in Corinth as “called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:9). Paul wrote to the Thessalonians and said they had been “called” by the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:14).
He emphasized that just as he was called by God to be an apostle (1:1), so were they also called of God to be His people. - Pollard, Truth for Today Commentary, 37
Being “called of Jesus Christ” is connected to salvation. The Christians in Rome - Jews and Gentiles - were a part of the saved in Christ Jesus because they had responded to His call through the gospel of God.
Regardless of nationality, race, gender, social status, etc. - salvation is offered through the gospel of Christ for all (Romans 1:16-17).
The beloved of God.
The term “beloved” is used by Paul to show his close fellowship and affection for his brethren. The use of the word in this phrase, “beloved of God,” points to the intimacy and tenderness of the love of God the Father in that He embraces His people in the bosom of His affection." - Wacaster, Studies in Romans, 19
Some of the Christians in Rome were likely well-off from a financial standpoint, while others may have been slaves. Some Christians were Gentiles, and some were Jews. There were likely many different “shades” of skin color among the Christians.
They were all the “beloved of God.”
Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! (1 John 3:1)
The “called saints.”
When we hear the word “saint” today, most people will think of the people the Roman Catholic Church has declared to be “saints.” It’s limited to a select few people.
That’s not how the Holy Spirit used this word through Paul.
Every Christian in Rome is a “called saint.” A “saint” simply means a “holy one” or a “set apart one.” Paul used this term several times when writing to Christians (Romans 8:27; 12:13; 15:25; 1 Corinthians 6:1-2). A “saint” is someone set apart for God’s service.
Every Christian in Rome was set apart for the service of God - they were saints. Every Christian today is also a saint - they are called to be set apart for God’s service.
When Paul wrote to the Christians in Rome, he thought of how God had saved them, how much God loved them, and how they were supposed to live as His children.
Much of the New Testament focuses on these three things for Christians. We are constantly reminded of how God saves us through the gospel of His Son. Lest we forget, God continues to remind us of His great love for us. He also continues to urge His people to live holy lives - devoted to serving Him.
If you are a Christian, start thinking of yourself as the “called of Jesus Christ,” the “beloved of God,” and a “called saint.”
See yourself as God sees you.