Romans 15:11

And again: "Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and extol Him, all you peoples."

Study Bible

And again
This phrase introduces a repetition or reinforcement of a previously stated idea. In the context of Romans 15, Paul is emphasizing the unity and inclusivity of both Jews and Gentiles in the worship of God. The use of "again" suggests that this is not a new concept but one that has been established and reiterated throughout Scripture. It underscores the continuity of God's plan for salvation and the consistent message of the prophets and the law.

Praise the Lord
The Greek word for "praise" here is "αἰνέω" (aineo), which means to extol or glorify. This is a call to worship, an invitation to acknowledge God's greatness and goodness. The act of praising is not just a verbal expression but a heartfelt acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and grace. Historically, praise has been a central aspect of Jewish worship, as seen in the Psalms, and Paul is extending this call to all believers, emphasizing that worship is a universal response to God's majesty.

all you Gentiles
The term "Gentiles" refers to all nations or peoples who are not of Jewish descent. In the Greek, "ἔθνη" (ethne) is used, which can also be translated as "nations." This inclusion of the Gentiles is significant in the context of the early church, where there was often tension between Jewish and Gentile believers. Paul is affirming that the message of the Gospel and the call to worship God is for everyone, breaking down ethnic and cultural barriers. This reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through him (Genesis 12:3).

and sing praises to Him
The phrase "sing praises" comes from the Greek "ψάλλω" (psallo), which means to sing or make melody. Singing has always been a powerful form of worship and expression of faith, deeply rooted in the traditions of both Jewish and early Christian communities. This call to sing praises is an invitation to express joy and gratitude to God through music, a universal language that transcends cultural and linguistic differences. It highlights the communal aspect of worship, where believers join together in harmonious adoration of God.

all you peoples
The word "peoples" in Greek is "λαοί" (laoi), which, like "Gentiles," refers to all ethnic groups and nations. This reiteration emphasizes the inclusivity of God's call to worship. It is a reminder that God's love and salvation are not limited to a specific group but are available to all humanity. This universal call to worship reflects the vision of a diverse yet united body of believers, as seen in Revelation 7:9, where people from every nation, tribe, and language stand before the throne of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the Book of Romans, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological teachings.

2. The Gentiles
Non-Jewish people who were often seen as outsiders in the context of the Jewish faith. Paul emphasizes their inclusion in God's plan of salvation.

3. The Roman Church
The recipients of the letter, consisting of both Jewish and Gentile believers, who were navigating the complexities of unity and diversity within the body of Christ.

4. David
The original quote in Romans 15:11 is from Psalm 117:1, traditionally attributed to King David, who was a central figure in Israel's history and a man after God's own heart.

5. The Psalms
A book of the Old Testament consisting of songs and prayers, often used in worship and quoted in the New Testament to connect the Old Covenant with the New Covenant.

Teaching Points

Universal Call to Worship
The call to "Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles" signifies that worship is not limited to a specific ethnic group but is a universal invitation to all humanity.

Unity in Diversity
The inclusion of Gentiles in the call to praise God underscores the unity that should exist within the church, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
This verse highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the inclusion of the Gentiles, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His promises.

Mission and Evangelism
Believers are encouraged to participate in God's mission by sharing the gospel with all nations, reflecting the heart of God for all peoples.

Joyful Praise
The exhortation to extol God reminds believers of the importance of joyful and exuberant worship as a response to His grace and salvation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Romans 15:11 reflect God's heart for all nations, and how can this understanding impact our approach to missions and evangelism today?

2. In what ways can the church today demonstrate unity in diversity, following the example set by the early Roman church?

3. How does the inclusion of Gentiles in the call to praise God challenge any personal or cultural biases we may hold?

4. What are some practical ways we can incorporate joyful praise into our daily lives, both individually and corporately?

5. How do the connections between Romans 15:11 and other scriptures like Psalm 117:1 and Isaiah 11:10 deepen our understanding of God's redemptive plan for humanity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 117:1
The original source of the quote, emphasizing the call for all nations to praise God, highlighting the universal scope of God's salvation plan.

Isaiah 11:10
This verse speaks of the root of Jesse standing as a banner for the peoples, indicating the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan.

Matthew 28:19
The Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, aligns with the call for all peoples to praise God.

Ephesians 2:11-22
Paul discusses the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility and creating one new humanity.