In our study of Romans 10 we have been amplifying the focus of the chapter: The journey of those who believe. As we amplified this focus we have seen there are problems that keep people from believing. We have also reflected on Paul’s prayer for their salvation. Now let’s look at what he says about the proclamation that needs to take place if someone is going to believe. 

 

In verse 18 Paul makes reference to God’s proclamation through natural revelation. He quotes from Psalm 19:4, “Their voice has gone out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.” What he is referring to is based on what is said in the first three verses of Psalm 19 which he does not quote: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.” 

 

Paul had referred to this mode of proclamation in Romans 1:19-20 where he says: “Since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” 

 

He continues this line of reasoning in Romans 10:20 by quoting Isaiah 65:1, “I was found by those who did not seek me; I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me.”