Romans 15:14–21, 30–33; 16:25–27

Romans 15:14–21, 30–33; 16:25–27

Bible Studies for Life
Assistant Professor of Religion, Department of Religion, Samford University

MY ONGOING MISSION
Romans 15:14–21, 30–33; 16:25–27

After his call to imitate Christ in selfless acceptance of others (15:7), Paul returns to the issue of Jews and Gentiles in Christ. He informs the Romans, “Christ has become a servant of the circumcised on behalf of the truth of God, to confirm the promises to the fathers, and so Gentiles may glorify God for His mercy” (15:8–9). He quotes several Old Testament texts to show the inclusion of the Gentiles is foretold in God’s word to Israel. Now that hope of inclusion has been fulfilled in Christ (15:9–13).

Proclaim the Good News (15:14–21)
Paul is a primary instrument in God’s plan as he has preached the gospel to Gentiles from Jerusalem to the edges of Europe. Likewise, the Roman Church participates in God’s plan by their response to the gospel and in their support of evangelism. In fact, Paul hopes they will support him so he can travel through Rome to Spain. Before such travel, however, Paul is taking financial gifts from the Gentiles to Jewish believers in Jerusalem (15:22–29; see Gal. 2:6–10; 1 Cor. 16:1–4).

Note two important points from what Paul says here. First, when Christians work to spread the gospel, they are cooperating in the fulfillment of God’s word given in the Old Testament. With each evangelistic endeavor, believers bring to fruition God’s promise to Abraham: “All the peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Gen. 12:3). A related second point is that fellow Christians should give of their economic resources to support those who serve as ministers and missionaries (15:27). Paul makes this point in other places too. Paul asked the Corinthians, “If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?” (1 Cor. 9:11). Similarly, Paul tells the Galatians, “The one who is taught the message must share his goods with the teacher” (Gal. 6:6).

Pray for Success (15:30–33)

Not only should Christians give their financial resources, but they must also support the gospel in their prayers for those in ministry and missions. In Paul’s situation, he asks that his fellow Christians “agonize” with him in prayer so that he is protected from “unbelievers in Judea.” Paul’s concern becomes reality as he is arrested in Jerusalem, eventually imprisoned in Caesarea and then moved to Rome (Acts 21:37–36; 23:23–35; 27:1–28:31). Thus, Paul does arrive in Rome, albeit as a prisoner. Since the books of Acts ends there, interpreters debate whether he died there or traveled on to Spain later.

In either case, Paul’s life demonstrates the risks and rewards of spreading the gospel, at home or abroad. Likewise, when believers spread the gospel in modern times and do so without unnecessary cultural baggage, they risk persecution from so-called friends as well as foes. In fact, according to Romans, Galatians and Acts, it was Paul’s insistence that the gospel meant inclusion of Gentiles that ultimately cost him. Paul stood up for the inclusion and liberty of those who were considered outsiders by those culturally closest to him. In our lives now, are we more like Paul or Paul’s opponents? Is the gospel of Christ really our main concern? May each of us answer these questions in good conscience.

Praise God (16:25–27)
In his conclusion, Paul commends Phoebe, a woman whom he describes as his benefactor. Phoebe has given financial support to Paul’s ministry. The King James Version has “succourer,” which means “helper;” the help is financial in nature (compare Luke 8:1–4). Paul also sends greetings to Prisca and her husband Aquila. In addition, he greets Junia, another woman of importance to him, whom he describes as “outstanding among the apostles.” He greets many others as well (16:1–16, 21–24). He also gives a final warning against divisiveness (16:17–20).

Finally, he ends with a point he has emphasized repeatedly: the gospel of Jesus Christ, which has been a “sacred secret for long ages,” has now been revealed as God’s plan of salvation for all nations. When believers spread the gospel and then live out its implications, they are participating in God’s plan given in Holy Scripture.