Romans 10:12

For. This introduces Paul’s explanation of “whosoever” in v. 11.

Difference. Or, “distinction” (cf. ch. 3:22). Jews and Gentiles alike have sinned and stand in need of salvation (see on ch. 3:23). God has provided only one means whereby men may be saved. He does not have one provision for the Jew and another for the Gentile. Hence all national, class, social, and individual distinctions vanish.

The Greek. That is, the Gentile (see on ch. 1:16).

The same Lord over all. Or, “the same Lord is Lord of all” (RV; RSV). Jews and Gentiles alike have the same Lord (cf. ch. 3:29, 30), who has redeemed all mankind (John 3:16). A comparison with vs. 9, 11 of Rom. 10 indicates that “Lord” here refers to Christ. In Acts 10:36 Christ is called “Lord of all” (cf. Rom. 14:9; Phil. 2:10, 11).

Rich unto all. There is no limit to the Lord’s resources (see Rom. 8:32; 11:33; Eph. 1:7; 2:7; 3:8).

Call upon him. Calling upon the Lord or calling upon the name of the Lord is a customary expression almost equivalent to worshiping the Lord. It probably arose from the habit of beginning an address to a deity by first mentioning his name. The Hebrews were known as those who called upon Jehovah. The Christians were those who called upon Christ (1 Cor. 1:2). It is significant to see this expression used of Christ in the NT, for since worship is due to God alone, this is clear recognition of Christ’s divinity (see Acts 7:59, 60; 9:14, 21; 22:16; 2 Tim. 2:22). On the deity of Christ see Additional Note on John 1.