What does Romans 1:7 mean?

The opening of Paul's letter was sidetracked momentarily by his eagerness to begin talking about the gospel of Jesus. Having successfully identified himself as Jesus' representative sent to proclaim the gospel to his readers, Paul now moves on to describe exactly who this letter is for.

He is writing to everyone in Rome at the time who is both loved by God and called by God to be saints. According to John 3:16, God loves the world, including all of those in Rome at this time. Beyond that, Paul understood that God had called those reading his letter to be "saints" or "holy ones." In the New Testament, all who believe in Jesus carry the title of "saint" (Ephesians 2:19). It is not a name meant only for those who are thought to be especially righteous Christians. Because believers are "in Christ," and Christ is holy, we are all officially "holy ones," as well.

Paul concludes the opening of his letter with his standard blessing. He used it often, but it is meaningful. He pronounced upon his readers grace and peace from both God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. The mystery and beauty of the Trinity is that God is one in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.