Romans 10:12-13
What is written? (ESV)
For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
What does it say?
The same Lord is Lord of both Jew and Greek - all mankind. He makes no distinction, giving blessings to anyone who calls on Him. Anyone who does this will be saved.
What is its immediate context?
Paul’s letter to the Gentiles in Rome primarily argues for their equal inclusion/access to God. However, he also speaks to his kinsmen (Jews), stating his desire for them to be saved as well (vs 1). He goes on to say they are zealous for God but without knowledge…specifically knowledge of His word (vs 8). He then says they need to believe with their heart and confess with their mouth to be saved – all of which is summarized into “calling on the name of the Lord” (vs 10). The verses immediately following (vss 14-16) lay out the process that leads someone to a “call on the Lord”. The prerequisites are first hearing (someone being sent to preach) and then believing/obeying the gospel message.
How Romans 10:12-13 is applied across Bible answers
How is the sinner’s prayer used in scripture?
Paul says that the saved are anyone who "calls on the name of the Lord".
In this context, "calling on his name" is confessing that Jesus is the Christ (obviously, after one believes that He is the Christ). There is no "prayer" mentioned in this context at all.
What does it mean to ‘call on the name of the Lord?’
It's clear from the context that "calls on" is predicated on one hearing the gospel and believing - the result of which is salvation - an individual's broad response to God13 for salvation.
This passage certainly applies to answering what it means to "call on the name of the Lord," but not how most apply it. It does not say anything about praying a special prayer.
