Romans 10:16

Obeyed. Gr. hupakoud, “to obey as the result of listening,” “to hearken,” “to heed” (see on ch. 5:19). The word is especially appropriate in this context, where Paul is describing the unbelief with which the message of the gospel has been received. The Jews heard, but they did not heed.

The gospel. Or, “glad tidings,” “good news” (see on ch. 1:1).

Esaias saith. The quotation is from Isa. 53:1. The Hebrew text does not have the word “Lord,” but it occurs in the LXX. The disobedience of the Jews was also foreseen by the prophet. Immediately after his description of the messengers of good news (Isa. 52), Isaiah predicts the failure of the people to receive the message. Compare the statement of the fulfillment of this prophecy in John 12:37, 38. This quotation also carries the implication (cf. Rom. 10:15) that the message had been given, or else it could not have been heard and disbelieved.