In the closing verse of Romans, Paul offers up a profound doxology: “To the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen” (Rom 16:27). This encapsulates a deep truth about the nature of God—He is the “only wise God.” But what does that really mean, and why does it matter to us today Recognizing the “only wise God” in Romans 16:27 requires not only intellectual assent but also a transformative response that involves worship, trust, and submission to His divine guidance.

To gain a deeper understanding of this verse, let’s break it down:

• “To the only wise God” – This phrase emphasizes the uniqueness of God’s wisdom. It sets Him apart from all other beings, human or divine.
• “be glory forevermore” – This expresses the idea that God’s wisdom is worthy of eternal praise and adoration. It’s a recognition of His infinite greatness and the perfection of His plans.
• “through Jesus Christ” – This phrase connects God’s wisdom to the person of Jesus Christ. It’s through Christ that we come to know God’s wisdom and experience its benefits.

The Uniqueness of God’s Wisdom

When Paul calls God the “only wise God,” he’s highlighting the exclusivity of God’s wisdom. Unlike human wisdom, which is often limited and flawed, God’s wisdom is perfect and beyond comparison. In a world full of opinions, theories, and knowledge, Paul reminds us that true wisdom belongs to God alone.

God’s Wisdom in Creation and Life

This idea of God’s wisdom being incomparable isn’t just a theological statement; it’s deeply practical. It means that when we seek guidance, understanding, or insight, God is the ultimate source. His wisdom isn’t just one option among many—it’s the only option that leads to true understanding and lasting peace.

We see God’s wisdom in the intricate design of the universe, from the vastness of the cosmos to the complexity of a single cell. The order and design of the world are not random; they’re intentional and purposeful, crafted by a wise Creator.

But God’s wisdom isn’t just evident in the grand design of creation. It’s also seen in how He governs the world and our lives. Life can often feel chaotic and unpredictable, but the truth is, God is in control. His wisdom guides everything, even when we can’t see the bigger picture.

The Wisdom of the Gospel

One of the profound expressions of God’s wisdom is found in the story of redemption. The gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, is the ultimate demonstration of divine wisdom. God’s plan to save humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus was a mystery hidden for ages. It seemed foolish to the world, but in reality, it was the pinnacle of God’s wise plan.

This plan was hidden for ages, a mystery waiting to be revealed. But now, through Christ, we see the full extent of God’s wisdom. He knew exactly what was needed to reconcile us to Him, and He accomplished it perfectly in Jesus.

Responding to God’s Wisdom

When we grasp even a little of what it means for God to be the “only wise God,” the natural response is worship. Paul’s doxology isn’t just a closing remark; it’s an outpouring of praise. Recognizing God’s wisdom should lead us to do the same—glorifying Him with our words, our lives, and our hearts.

But worship isn’t the only response. Trust is equally important. Acknowledging that God is the only wise God means trusting that His plans are good, even when we don’t understand them. It means leaning on His wisdom rather than our own, especially when life doesn’t make sense.

The Implications of God’s Wisdom

Understanding that God is the only wise God has profound implications for our lives:

• Humility: Recognizing God’s wisdom should lead us to humility. We must acknowledge the limitations of our own understanding and trust in God’s superior wisdom.
• Submission: When we recognize God’s wisdom, we are more likely to submit to His will. We understand that His plans are ultimately good, even when we don’t see the immediate benefits.
• Peace: Trusting in God’s wisdom brings peace, even in the midst of life’s challenges. We know that He is in control and working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).
• Worship: As we contemplate God’s infinite wisdom, we are naturally drawn to worship. His wisdom is a source of awe and wonder, inspiring us to praise and glorify Him.

Romans 16:27 calls us to remember and celebrate that God is the “only wise God.” His wisdom is unique, perfect, and trustworthy. It’s evident in creation, in how He governs our lives, and most importantly, in the gospel. As we reflect on this truth, may it lead us to deeper worship and unwavering trust in Him—the only wise God, to whom belongs all glory forever. Amen.