Paul, apostle of Jesus Christ and minister to the Gentiles, writing with pastoral concern for unity in Rome and missionary purpose toward Spain, while preparing to bring Gentile aid to the saints in Jerusalem.
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Romans 15
Bearing with the Weak, Welcoming One Another, and Paul’s Priestly Mission to the Gentiles
Because Christ welcomed Jews and Gentiles into one mercy-shaped people, the church must bear with the weak, accept one another, glorify God together, and partner in the gospel mission that brings the nations to obedient worship.
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Chapter Summary
Because Christ welcomed Jews and Gentiles into one mercy-shaped people, the church must bear with the weak, accept one another, glorify God together, and partner in the gospel mission that brings the nations to obedient worship.
Overview
Romans 15 argues that the strong must imitate Christ's self-denial by bearing with the weak and building up the neighbor. Scripture sustains hope and reveals God's plan for Jews and Gentiles to glorify Him together. Christ confirms God's promises to Israel and extends mercy to the Gentiles. Paul's Gentile mission is a priestly gospel ministry that presents the nations as an acceptable offering sanctified by the Spirit.
The Roman church is called into unity, hope, material partnership, and prayerful participation in this mission.
Context
The Roman believers, a mixed Jewish-Gentile church needing to bear with one another, accept one another as Christ accepted them, glorify God with one voice, and participate in Paul's gospel mission.
Romans 15 follows Romans 14's instruction on disputable matters and conscience. It concludes the weak-strong exhortation, grounds mutual acceptance in Christ, connects Jew-Gentile unity to Scripture, and transitions into Paul's apostolic ministry and travel plans.
Because Christ welcomed Jews and Gentiles into one mercy-shaped people, the church must bear with the weak, accept one another, glorify God together, and partner in the gospel mission that brings the nations to obedient worship.
Paul, apostle of Jesus Christ and minister to the Gentiles, writing with pastoral concern for unity in Rome and missionary purpose toward Spain, while preparing to bring Gentile aid to the saints in Jerusalem.
The Roman believers, a mixed Jewish-Gentile church needing to bear with one another, accept one another as Christ accepted them, glorify God with one voice, and participate in Paul's gospel mission.
Romans 15 follows Romans 14's instruction on disputable matters and conscience. It concludes the weak-strong exhortation, grounds mutual acceptance in Christ, connects Jew-Gentile unity to Scripture, and transitions into Paul's apostolic ministry and travel plans.
Social Pressure
- The Roman church faced Jew-Gentile tensions, differing consciences, questions of spiritual maturity, honor-seeking, and possible detachment from Paul's Gentile mission and Jerusalem collection. Paul calls them to unity, self-denial, worship, and partnership.
In a world shaped by patronage, honor, ethnic identity, religious boundaries, and imperial ambition, Paul presents the church as a multiethnic worshiping people united in Christ and called to support missionary advance to unreached peoples.
Romans 15 shows Christ as the servant of Israel who confirms patriarchal promises and brings Gentile mercy. It places the Roman church inside the fulfillment of Scripture's promise that the nations would praise God, hope in the Root of Jesse, and become an acceptable offering sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
Chapter Movement
Paul moves from the strong bearing with the weak, to Christ's self-denying example, to Scripture's role in endurance, encouragement, and hope, to a prayer for unified worship, to the command to accept one another as Christ accepted them, to Christ's ministry to Jews and Gentiles, to Old Testament proof of Gentile praise, to Paul's apostolic priestly mission, to His ambition to preach where Christ is not named, to His plans for Jerusalem, Rome, and Spain, and finally to a request for prayer and a blessing of peace.
Discourse Insight
Theological exposition and fulfillment
Romans 15 clarifies that the gospel creates a self-denying, Scripture-sustained, hope-filled, Jew-Gentile worshiping people. Christ accepts believers, confirms God's promises to Israel, brings mercy to Gentiles, and sends gospel ministry to the nations. The gospel produces unity, worship, mission, generosity, prayer, and hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Structural Flow
The strong are morally obligated to carry the weaknesses of the weak rather than live for self-pleasing.
Christian conduct seeks the neighbor's good and builds Him up.
Christ's refusal to please Himself becomes the controlling model for the strong.
Scripture instructs believers and produces endurance, encouragement, and hope.
God grants endurance, encouragement, and Christlike unity so the church glorifies Him together.
The command to accept one another summarizes the weak-strong section and grounds unity in Christ's acceptance.
Christ serves Israel to confirm God's truth and promises, and Gentiles glorify God for mercy.
Paul strings together Scripture to show Gentiles praising God, rejoicing with Israel, worshiping the Lord, and hoping in the Root of Jesse.
The God of hope fills believers with joy and peace in believing so they overflow with hope by the Spirit's power.
Paul affirms the Roman believers while explaining His bold writing as part of His grace-given Gentile ministry.
Paul glories only in what Christ has accomplished through Him by word, deed, signs, wonders, and the Spirit's power.
Paul's ambition is to preach Christ where He is not known, fulfilling Scripture's vision of the uninformed seeing and understanding.
Paul plans to visit Rome on the way to Spain after completing the Gentile contribution for the poor saints in Jerusalem.
Paul urges the church to struggle together in prayer for His protection, mission, reception, joy, refreshment, and peace.
Chapter Outline
- 15:1-2: The strong must not live to please themselves but must carry the weak and seek the neighbor's good.
- 15:3-4: Christ did not please Himself, and Scripture teaches believers endurance, encouragement, and hope.
- 15:5-6: Paul prays for Christlike unity so the church may glorify God together.
- 15:7: Mutual acceptance is grounded in Christ's acceptance and aimed at God's praise.
- 15:8-13: Christ serves Israel to confirm God's truth and promises while bringing Gentiles to glorify God and hope in Him.
- 15:14-16: Paul describes His grace-given ministry as a priestly service of presenting Gentiles as an acceptable Spirit-sanctified offering.
- 15:17-19: Paul glories only in Christ's work through Him to bring Gentiles to obedience by word, deed, signs, wonders, and the Spirit's power.
- 15:20-21: Paul's mission strategy is to preach Christ where He has not been named, in fulfillment of Scripture.
- 15:22-29: Paul explains His plans to visit Rome on the way to Spain after delivering Gentile aid to the poor saints in Jerusalem.
- 15:30-33: Paul asks the Roman believers to strive with Him in prayer for safety, acceptance of His service, a joyful visit, refreshment, and peace.
Theological Argument
Romans 15 argues that the strong must imitate Christ's self-denial by bearing with the weak and building up the neighbor. Scripture sustains hope and reveals God's plan for Jews and Gentiles to glorify Him together. Christ confirms God's promises to Israel and extends mercy to the Gentiles. Paul's Gentile mission is a priestly gospel ministry that presents the nations as an acceptable offering sanctified by the Spirit.
The Roman church is called into unity, hope, material partnership, and prayerful participation in this mission.
The chapter moves from local church unity to canonical Jew-Gentile praise, from Scripture's hope to Gentile mission, from Paul's apostolic calling to missionary strategy, from Jerusalem collection to Spain ambition, and from plans to prayer.
- 1.The strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak.
- 2.Believers must not live to please themselves.
- 3.Each believer should please his neighbor for that neighbor's good and edification.
- 4.Christ did not please himself but bore reproach in fulfillment of Scripture.
- 5.Scripture was written to teach believers.
- 6.Scripture produces endurance and encouragement so believers may have hope.
- 7.God gives endurance and encouragement.
- 8.God grants believers the same mindset toward one another that Christ Jesus had.
- 9.This unity enables the church to glorify God with one mind and one voice.
- 10.Believers must accept one another as Christ accepted them.
- 11.The purpose of mutual acceptance is God's praise.
- 12.Christ became a servant of the circumcision to demonstrate God's truth.
- 13.Christ confirmed the promises made to the patriarchs.
- 14.Christ's work also brings Gentiles to glorify God for mercy.
- 15.The Old Testament anticipated Gentiles praising God with Israel.
- 16.The Root of Jesse rises to rule the nations, and Gentiles hope in him.
- 17.The God of hope fills believers with joy and peace in believing.
- 18.Believers overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
- 19.Paul is persuaded that the Roman believers are full of goodness and knowledge and able to instruct one another.
- 20.Paul has written boldly because of the grace given to him.
- 21.Paul is a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles.
- 22.Paul's priestly duty is proclaiming the gospel of God.
- 23.The Gentiles become an acceptable offering, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
- 24.Paul glories in Christ Jesus in his service to God.
- 25.Paul speaks only of what Christ has accomplished through him.
- 26.Christ has led Gentiles to obedience through Paul's word and deed.
- 27.This ministry has been empowered by signs, wonders, and the Spirit of God.
- 28.Paul has fully proclaimed the gospel from Jerusalem to Illyricum.
- 29.Paul's ambition is to preach Christ where he is not known.
- 30.This ambition accords with Scripture's promise that those not told will see and those who have not heard will understand.
- 31.Paul has been hindered from visiting Rome because of this mission.
- 32.Paul now plans to visit Rome on his way to Spain.
- 33.Paul must first go to Jerusalem with the contribution from Macedonia and Achaia.
- 34.Gentiles owe material service to Jewish believers because they have shared in Jewish spiritual blessings.
- 35.Paul expects to come to Rome in the full measure of Christ's blessing.
- 36.Paul urges the Romans to strive with him in prayer by the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of the Spirit.
- 37.He asks prayer for safety from unbelievers, acceptance of his service in Jerusalem, and a joyful refreshing visit to Rome.
- 38.He closes by blessing them with the God of peace.
Theological Focus
- Strong bearing with weak
- Self Denial
- Neighbor Good
- Edification
- Christ's example
- Scripture's instruction
- Endurance
- Encouragement
- Hope
- Unity of mind
- Unified worship
- Mutual acceptance
- Christ's acceptance
- God's praise
- Christ as servant of the circumcision
- Truth of God
- Patriarchal promises
- Gentile mercy
- Gentile praise
- Root of Jesse
- God of hope
- Joy and peace in believing
- Power of the Holy Spirit
- Apostolic grace
- Priestly gospel ministry
- Gentiles as offering
- Sanctification by the Holy Spirit
- Obedience of the Gentiles
- Signs and wonders
- Mission to unreached places
- Jew-Gentile material partnership
- Prayer partnership
- God of peace
- The Strong Bear the Weak
- Christlike Self-Denial
- Scripture Produces Hope
- Unified Worship
- Accept One Another
- Christ the Servant of Israel
- Gentiles Glorify God for Mercy
- The Root of Jesse
- God of Hope
- Priestly Mission
- Christ Accomplishes Mission Through Servants
- Unreached Gospel Ambition
- Material Partnership Between Gentiles and Jews
- Prayer as Mission Participation
- God of Peace
- Scripture
- Church Unity
- Mutual Acceptance
- Promises to the Patriarchs
- Gentile Mercy
- Davidic Christology
- Holy Spirit
- Mission
- Apostolic Ministry
- Generosity
- Prayer
- Peace
Theological Themes
Strength in the church is not for self-pleasing but for carrying and building up weaker believers.
Christ did not please Himself, so believers must renounce self-centered use of strength and freedom.
Christian conduct aims at the neighbor's good and the building up of the body.
The Scriptures instruct believers and provide endurance and encouragement so that hope is sustained.
The goal of mutual acceptance is one-minded, one-voiced glorification of God.
The church receives one another because Christ has received believers for God's glory.
Christ became a servant of the circumcision to confirm God's truth and the promises made to the patriarchs.
Gentile inclusion is mercy that leads the nations to praise God with Israel.
Christ is the Davidic ruler who rises to reign over the nations and become the hope of the Gentiles.
God fills believers with joy and peace in believing so that they overflow with hope by the Spirit.
Paul describes His Gentile mission as priestly service, presenting the nations as an offering sanctified by the Spirit.
Paul's mission aims not merely at decisions or information but at Gentile obedience to Christ.
Paul refuses self-boasting and speaks only of what Christ has done through Him.
Paul aims to proclaim Christ where He is not known, extending the gospel into new regions.
Gentile believers share material blessings with Jerusalem saints because they have shared in Jewish spiritual blessings.
The Roman believers join Paul's struggle through prayer for protection, acceptance, joy, and refreshment.
Paul closes with the peace of God as the blessing needed by a unified, mission-participating church.
Covenant Significance
Romans 15 is a major Jew-Gentile covenant fulfillment chapter. Christ serves Israel by confirming God's truth and patriarchal promises, and He brings Gentiles into mercy so they glorify God with Israel. The church's mutual acceptance is rooted in this covenant fulfillment. Paul's Gentile mission presents the nations as an acceptable offering sanctified by the Spirit, and the Gentile contribution to Jerusalem embodies shared participation in Israel's spiritual blessings.
Old Testament Connections
- The strong-weak exhortation protects the unity of the one covenant people in Christ.
- Christ's self-denial becomes the pattern for Jew-Gentile fellowship.
- Scripture's enduring purpose is to instruct and sustain hope in the church.
- Christ became a servant of the circumcision to confirm God's truth.
- Christ confirmed the promises given to the patriarchs.
- Gentiles glorify God for mercy, not entitlement.
- Old Testament Scripture anticipated Gentile praise with Israel.
- The Root of Jesse fulfills Davidic hope and rules the nations.
- Gentiles hope in Israel's Messiah.
- Paul's ministry fulfills the priestly calling to bring Gentiles as an offering to God.
- The Holy Spirit sanctifies Gentile believers as acceptable to God.
- Gentile material support for Jerusalem acknowledges their sharing in Jewish spiritual blessings.
- Rome and Spain are placed within the outward movement of covenant promise to the nations.
- Psalm 18:49
- Deuteronomy 32:43
- Psalm 117:1
- Isaiah 11:10
- Isaiah 52:15
- Isaiah 66:18-21
- Genesis 12:1-3
- 2 Samuel 7:12-16
- Psalm 69:9
Canonical Connections
Paul applies Psalm 69's reproach language to Christ as the pattern for self-denying love.
The Scriptures instruct God's people and sustain endurance, encouragement, and hope.
Romans 15 completes the Romans 14 call to receive believers across conscience differences.
Christ confirms promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and brings blessing to the nations.
Paul cites Scripture to show Gentile praise was promised within Israel's Scriptures.
Isaiah's Davidic hope is fulfilled in Christ, who rises to rule the nations and become Gentile hope.
The Spirit empowers hope, joy, peace, and sanctified Gentile inclusion.
Paul's ministry echoes prophetic visions of nations brought as offerings to the Lord.
Romans begins and ends with Paul's mission to bring about the obedience of faith among the nations.
Paul cites Isaiah's vision to ground His ambition to preach Christ in unreached regions.
The Jerusalem collection expresses the unity of Gentile and Jewish believers in Christ.
Paul's appeal for prayer shows mission dependence on God and church partnership.
Cross References
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
Now thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and reveals through us the sweet aroma of his knowledge in every place. For we are a sweet aroma of Christ to God, in those who are saved and in those who perish: to the one a...
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
For this is not that others may be eased and you distressed, but for equality. Your abundance at this present time supplies their lack, that their abundance also may become a supply for your lack; that there may be equality. As it is...
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that you through his poverty might become rich.
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
For so has the Lord commanded us, saying, ‘I have set you as a light for the Gentiles, that you should bring salvation to the uttermost parts of the earth.’ ”
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
to whom God was pleased to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. We proclaim him, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may...
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off are made near in the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who made both one, and broke down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in his flesh the hostility, the law of...
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
with all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perseverance and requests for all the saints: on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in opening my mouth, to make known with...
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising its shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him who has endured such...
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
for your partnership in furtherance of the Good News from the first day until now;
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
Have this in your mind, which was also in Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, didn’t consider equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men.
Clarifies how the passage points to the gospel of Christ.
After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude, which no man could count, out of every nation and of all tribes, peoples, and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes, with palm branches...
Shows Old Testament grounding that frames or supports this passage.
Therefore I will give thanks to you, Yahweh, among the nations, and will sing praises to your name.
Shows Old Testament grounding that frames or supports this passage.
Rejoice, you nations, with his people, for he will avenge the blood of his servants. He will take vengeance on his adversaries, and will make atonement for his land and for his people.
Shows Old Testament grounding that frames or supports this passage.
It will happen in that day that the nations will seek the root of Jesse, who stands as a banner of the peoples; and his resting place will be glorious.
Shows Old Testament grounding that frames or supports this passage.
so he will cleanse many nations. Kings will shut their mouths at him; for they will see that which had not been told them, and they will understand that which they had not heard.
Shows Old Testament grounding that frames or supports this passage.
Surely he has borne our sickness and carried our suffering; yet we considered him plagued, struck by God, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions. He was crushed for our iniquities. The punishment that brought our peace...
Shows Old Testament grounding that frames or supports this passage.
“For I know their works and their thoughts. The time comes that I will gather all nations and languages, and they will come, and will see my glory. “I will set a sign among them, and I will send those who escape of them to the nations, to...
Shows Old Testament grounding that frames or supports this passage.
“I will set a sign among them, and I will send those who escape of them to the nations, to Tarshish, Pul, and Lud, who draw the bow, to Tubal and Javan, to far-away islands, who have not heard my fame, nor have seen my glory; and they...
Shows Old Testament grounding that frames or supports this passage.
Shows Old Testament grounding that frames or supports this passage.
Shows Old Testament grounding that frames or supports this passage.
Provides immediate literary context around the same argument flow.
Now accept one who is weak in faith, but not for disputes over opinions. One man has faith to eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables. Don’t let him who eats despise him who doesn’t eat. Don’t let him who doesn’t eat judge...
Provides immediate literary context around the same argument flow.
Therefore let’s not judge one another any more, but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block in his brother’s way, or an occasion for falling. I know, and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean of itself;...
Provides immediate literary context around the same argument flow.
Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each one of us please his neighbor for that which is good, to be building him up. For even Christ didn’t please himself. But, as it is...
Provides immediate literary context around the same argument flow.
I myself am also persuaded about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish others. But I write the more boldly to you in part, as reminding you, because of the grace that...
Provides immediate literary context around the same argument flow.
Therefore also I was hindered these many times from coming to you, but now, no longer having any place in these regions, and having these many years a longing to come to you, whenever I travel to Spain, I will come to you. For I hope to...
Provides immediate literary context around the same argument flow.
Therefore accept one another, even as Christ also accepted you, to the glory of God. Now I say that Christ has been made a servant of the circumcision for the truth of God, that he might confirm the promises given to the fathers, and that...
Provides immediate literary context around the same argument flow.
I commend to you Phoebe, our sister, who is a servant of the assembly that is at Cenchreae, that you receive her in the Lord, in a way worthy of the saints, and that you assist her in whatever matter she may need from you, for she herself...
Develops the same theological theme in another location.
Now, behold, I go bound by the Spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there; except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions wait for me. But these things don’t count; nor do I hold...
Gospel Clarity
Romans 15 clarifies that the gospel creates a self-denying, Scripture-sustained, hope-filled, Jew-Gentile worshiping people. Christ accepts believers, confirms God's promises to Israel, brings mercy to Gentiles, and sends gospel ministry to the nations. The gospel produces unity, worship, mission, generosity, prayer, and hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Gospel Guardrails
- The strong bear with the weak instead of pleasing themselves.
- Believers seek the neighbor's good for edification.
- Christ did not please Himself.
- Scripture teaches endurance, encouragement, and hope.
- God grants unity according to Christ Jesus.
- The church glorifies God with one mind and voice.
- Believers accept one another as Christ accepted them.
- Christ became a servant of the circumcision.
- Christ confirmed God's truth and patriarchal promises.
- Gentiles glorify God for mercy.
- The Old Testament anticipated Gentile praise and hope.
- The Root of Jesse rules the nations.
- The God of hope fills believers with joy and peace in believing.
- Hope overflows by the power of the Holy Spirit.
- Paul's ministry presents Gentiles as an acceptable offering.
- Gentiles are sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
- Christ accomplishes Gentile obedience through gospel ministry.
- The gospel presses toward those who have not heard.
- Material giving expresses spiritual fellowship.
- Prayer is participation in gospel struggle.
- Do not treat strength as permission for self-pleasing.
- Do not detach church unity from Christ's acceptance.
- Do not read the Old Testament as irrelevant to Christian hope.
- Do not separate Christ's Gentile mercy from His confirmation of Israel's promises.
- Do not turn Jew-Gentile unity into vague diversity without worship and truth.
- Do not boast in ministry as though Christ has not accomplished the fruit.
- Do not reduce mission to strategy · it is Spirit-empowered priestly service.
- Do not make mission only local when Paul models ambition for those who have not heard.
- Do not treat giving as optional sentiment when spiritual sharing creates material responsibility.
- Do not speak of mission without prayerful struggle.
Gospel Cross References
Now thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and reveals through us the sweet aroma of his knowledge in every place. For we are a sweet aroma of Christ to God, in those who are saved and in those who perish: to the one a...
For this is not that others may be eased and you distressed, but for equality. Your abundance at this present time supplies their lack, that their abundance also may become a supply for your lack; that there may be equality. As it is...
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that you through his poverty might become rich.
For so has the Lord commanded us, saying, ‘I have set you as a light for the Gentiles, that you should bring salvation to the uttermost parts of the earth.’ ”
to whom God was pleased to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. We proclaim him, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may...
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off are made near in the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who made both one, and broke down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in his flesh the hostility, the law of...
with all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perseverance and requests for all the saints: on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in opening my mouth, to make known with...
that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising its shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him who has endured such...
for your partnership in furtherance of the Good News from the first day until now;
Have this in your mind, which was also in Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, didn’t consider equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men.
After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude, which no man could count, out of every nation and of all tribes, peoples, and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes, with palm branches...
Primary Emphasis
Romans 15 presents Christ as the self-denying servant whose reproach fulfilled Scripture, the one who accepted believers for God's glory, the servant of the circumcision who confirmed God's promises to the patriarchs, the Root of Jesse who rises to rule the nations, the hope of the Gentiles, and the Lord who accomplishes Gentile obedience through Paul's apostolic ministry. Christ is both the pattern of church unity and the content, power, and goal of Gentile mission.
Chapter Contribution
Romans 15 argues that the strong must imitate Christ's self-denial by bearing with the weak and building up the neighbor. Scripture sustains hope and reveals God's plan for Jews and Gentiles to glorify Him together. Christ confirms God's promises to Israel and extends mercy to the Gentiles. Paul's Gentile mission is a priestly gospel ministry that presents the nations as an acceptable offering sanctified by the Spirit.
The Roman church is called into unity, hope, material partnership, and prayerful participation in this mission.
Doctrines in This Chapter
God appoints and empowers specific servants for gospel mission.
Scripture provides endurance, encouragement, and hope.
Believers support one another through giving and prayer.
The church glorifies God through unified praise.
Christ confirms the patriarchal promises in faithfulness.
The Spirit fills believers with joy, peace, and enduring hope.
Believers model Christ’s self-giving endurance.
God’s redemptive plan always included Gentile salvation.
Gospel expansion involves intentional planning under God’s providence.
God’s redemptive plan extends to unreached peoples.
Gospel ministry presents redeemed people as offerings to God.
God sovereignly directs mission while calling believers to intercede.
The Holy Spirit sets apart believers as holy to God.
Spiritual maturity expresses itself in self-denial for others.
Jewish and Gentile believers share mutual indebtedness in Christ.
Jews and Gentiles share one hope in Christ.
Doctrinal Weight
Christ did not please Himself, and His pattern governs how the strong treat the weak.
Believers must seek the neighbor's good in order to build Him up.
The Scriptures were written to teach believers and give endurance, encouragement, and hope.
God is the God of hope who fills believers with joy and peace in believing through the Holy Spirit.
God grants believers one mind and one voice so that they glorify Him together.
Believers must accept one another as Christ accepted them, for the praise of God.
Christ confirms God's truth and the promises made to the patriarchs.
Gentiles glorify God because they have received mercy in Christ.
Christ is the Root of Jesse who rises to rule the nations and become the hope of the Gentiles.
The Spirit sanctifies Gentiles as an acceptable offering and empowers overflowing hope and mission.
Paul's mission seeks Gentile obedience and presses toward places where Christ is not known.
Paul's ministry is grace-given priestly service of the gospel of God.
Gentile material giving to Jerusalem expresses obligation flowing from shared spiritual blessing.
Prayer is active participation in gospel struggle and mission dependence on God.
Paul closes by invoking the God of peace, fitting the chapter's concern for unity, mission, and fellowship.
Reading Lenses
Theological exposition and fulfillment
- Romans 15 clarifies that the gospel creates a self-denying, Scripture-sustained, hope-filled, Jew-Gentile worshiping people. Christ accepts believers, confirms God's promises to Israel, brings mercy to Gentiles, and sends gospel ministry to the nations. The gospel produces unity, worship, mission, generosity, prayer, and hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Key Greek Terms
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense strong; able; powerful
Definition The strong are those able to exercise liberty with a freer conscience.
References Romans 15:1
Lexicon strong; able; powerful
Why it matters Paul defines strength as responsibility to bear with the weak, not privilege for self-pleasing.
Form in passage Present · Active · Indicative · 1st Person · Plural What is this?
Sense to owe; be obligated; be under duty
Definition The strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak.
References Romans 15:1
Lexicon to owe; be obligated; be under duty
Why it matters Bearing with the weak is not optional courtesy but moral obligation.
Form in passage Present · Active · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to bear; carry; endure supportively
Definition The strong must bear the weaknesses of the weak.
References Romans 15:1
Lexicon to bear; carry; endure supportively
Why it matters Christian maturity carries burdens rather than asserting superiority.
Form in passage Accusative · Plural · Neuter What is this?
Sense weaknesses; infirmities; failings
Definition The strong bear with the weaknesses of the weak.
References Romans 15:1
Lexicon weaknesses; infirmities; failings
Why it matters Paul acknowledges real weakness without allowing the strong to despise weaker believers.
Form in passage Present · Active · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to please; seek approval or good
Definition Believers must not please themselves but should please their neighbor for good.
References Romans 15:1-3
Lexicon to please; seek approval or good
Why it matters Paul contrasts selfish pleasing with neighbor-focused edification.
Sense neighbor; fellow person nearby or in relation
Definition Each believer should please his neighbor for that neighbor's good.
References Romans 15:2
Lexicon neighbor; fellow person nearby or in relation
Why it matters Romans 15 applies the love-Your-neighbor ethic to church disagreements.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense good; beneficial; morally good
Definition The neighbor is to be pleased for his good.
References Romans 15:2
Lexicon good; beneficial; morally good
Why it matters Paul is not calling for people-pleasing but for love that seeks true benefit.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense building up; strengthening; edification
Definition Believers seek the neighbor's good for edification.
References Romans 15:2
Lexicon building up; strengthening; edification
Why it matters The goal of Christian conduct is to build others up in faith.
Sense Christ; Messiah; Anointed One
Definition Christ did not please himself and becomes the model and ground of mutual acceptance.
References Romans 15:3, 15:7-8, 15:16-19, 15:29-30
Lexicon Christ; Messiah; Anointed One
Why it matters The weak-strong ethic is explicitly christological.
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense reproaches; insults; disgrace
Definition The reproaches of those who reproached God fell on Christ.
References Romans 15:3
Lexicon reproaches; insults; disgrace
Why it matters Christ's self-denial included bearing shame and hostility for God's sake.
Form in passage Aorist · Passive · Indicative · 3rd Person · Singular What is this?
Sense to write beforehand
Definition Whatever was written beforehand was written for believers' instruction.
References Romans 15:4
Lexicon to write beforehand
Why it matters Paul affirms the continuing teaching function of Scripture for the church.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense teaching; instruction; doctrine
Definition The Scriptures were written for believers' instruction.
References Romans 15:4
Lexicon teaching; instruction; doctrine
Why it matters Scripture forms the church's doctrine, endurance, and hope.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense endurance; steadfastness; perseverance under pressure
Definition Scripture gives endurance, and God is the God of endurance.
References Romans 15:4-5
Lexicon endurance; steadfastness; perseverance under pressure
Why it matters The church needs steadfastness for unity, suffering, and mission.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense encouragement; comfort; exhortation
Definition Scripture gives encouragement, and God gives encouragement.
References Romans 15:4-5
Lexicon encouragement; comfort; exhortation
Why it matters God sustains the church through Scripture's comfort and exhortation.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense hope; confident expectation
Definition Scripture gives hope, Gentiles hope in the Root of Jesse, and God fills believers with hope.
References Romans 15:4, 15:12-13
Lexicon hope; confident expectation
Why it matters Hope unites Scripture, Christ, Gentile inclusion, and Spirit-empowered life.
Cross-language bridge 1 link · View in lexicon
Form in passage Present · Active · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to think the same; have shared mindset
Definition Paul prays that believers may have the same mindset toward one another according to Christ Jesus.
References Romans 15:5
Lexicon to think the same; have shared mindset
Why it matters Unity is a Christ-shaped disposition, not mere organizational agreement.
Form in passage Present · Active · Subjunctive · 2nd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense to glorify; honor; praise
Definition The church glorifies God with one voice, and Gentiles glorify God for mercy.
References Romans 15:6, 15:9
Lexicon to glorify; honor; praise
Why it matters God's glory is the aim of unity and Gentile inclusion.
Sense with one accord; unitedly
Definition Believers glorify God together with one accord.
References Romans 15:6
Lexicon with one accord; unitedly
Why it matters Paul's vision is unified worship, not merely conflict management.
Form in passage Dative · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense one mouth; one voice
Definition The church glorifies God with one voice.
References Romans 15:6
Lexicon one mouth; one voice
Why it matters Jew-Gentile unity is expressed in shared worship and confession.
Sense to receive; accept; welcome into fellowship
Definition Believers must accept one another just as Christ accepted them.
References Romans 15:7
Lexicon to receive; accept; welcome into fellowship
Why it matters Christ's acceptance becomes the pattern and ground for church fellowship.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense servant; minister; agent of service
Definition Christ became a servant of the circumcision.
References Romans 15:8
Lexicon servant; minister; agent of service
Why it matters Christ's ministry to Israel confirms God's promises and enables Gentile mercy.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense circumcision; Jewish covenant identity
Definition Christ became a servant of the circumcision.
References Romans 15:8
Lexicon circumcision; Jewish covenant identity
Why it matters Paul identifies Christ's ministry as first confirming God's covenant truth to Israel.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense truth; faithfulness; reliability
Definition Christ serves Israel on behalf of God's truth.
References Romans 15:8
Lexicon truth; faithfulness; reliability
Why it matters Christ proves God truthful and faithful to His promises.
Form in passage Aorist · Active · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to confirm; establish; make firm
Definition Christ confirms the promises made to the patriarchs.
References Romans 15:8
Lexicon to confirm; establish; make firm
Why it matters The gospel fulfills rather than cancels God's promises to Israel.
Form in passage Accusative · Plural · Feminine What is this?
Sense promises; pledged divine commitments
Definition Christ confirms the promises made to the patriarchs.
References Romans 15:8
Lexicon promises; pledged divine commitments
Why it matters Paul roots Christ's ministry in covenant promise and divine faithfulness.
Form in passage Genitive · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense fathers; patriarchs; ancestors
Definition The promises confirmed by Christ were made to the patriarchs.
References Romans 15:8
Lexicon fathers; patriarchs; ancestors
Why it matters Gentile inclusion is tied to promises given in Israel's patriarchal history.
Form in passage Accusative · Plural · Neuter What is this?
Sense nations; Gentiles
Definition Gentiles glorify God for mercy and become the focus of Paul's apostolic ministry.
References Romans 15:9-12, 15:16, 15:18
Lexicon nations; Gentiles
Why it matters Romans 15 places the nations at the center of fulfilled biblical mission.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense mercy; compassion shown to the needy
Definition Gentiles glorify God for his mercy.
References Romans 15:9
Lexicon mercy; compassion shown to the needy
Why it matters Gentile inclusion is not entitlement but mercy that produces praise.
Form in passage Future · Middle · Indicative · 1st Person · Singular What is this?
Sense to praise; confess; acknowledge
Definition Scripture says praise will be given among the Gentiles.
References Romans 15:9
Lexicon to praise; confess; acknowledge
Why it matters Gentile praise is not an afterthought but anticipated in Scripture.
Form in passage Aorist · Passive · Imperative · 2nd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense to rejoice; be glad
Definition Gentiles are called to rejoice with God's people.
References Romans 15:10
Lexicon to rejoice; be glad
Why it matters The nations are invited into shared joy with Israel's people.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense root; source; descendant in messianic imagery
Definition The Root of Jesse rises to rule the nations.
References Romans 15:12
Lexicon root; source; descendant in messianic imagery
Why it matters Christ is the Davidic Messiah in whom Gentiles hope.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense Jesse; father of David
Definition The Root of Jesse is the Davidic messianic ruler.
References Romans 15:12
Lexicon Jesse; father of David
Why it matters Gentile hope is rooted in Israel's Davidic promise.
Cross-language bridge 1 link · View in lexicon
Form in passage Present · Active · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to rule; govern; reign
Definition The Root of Jesse rises to rule the Gentiles.
References Romans 15:12
Lexicon to rule; govern; reign
Why it matters The Messiah's reign extends over the nations.
Form in passage Future · Active · Indicative · 3rd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense to hope; trust; place expectation in
Definition Gentiles will hope in the Root of Jesse.
References Romans 15:12
Lexicon to hope; trust; place expectation in
Why it matters Christ is the object of Gentile hope.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense joy; gladness
Definition The God of hope fills believers with all joy in believing.
References Romans 15:13
Lexicon joy; gladness
Why it matters Hope produces joy through trust in God.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense peace; wholeness; harmony
Definition The God of hope fills believers with peace in believing, and Paul blesses them with the God of peace.
References Romans 15:13, 15:33
Lexicon peace; wholeness; harmony
Why it matters Peace marks both internal trust and communal unity.
Form in passage Present · Active · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to believe; trust; rely upon
Definition Joy and peace come in believing.
References Romans 15:13
Lexicon to believe; trust; rely upon
Why it matters Faith is the posture through which hope, joy, and peace are experienced.
Form in passage Present · Active · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to abound; overflow; be more than enough
Definition Believers overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
References Romans 15:13
Lexicon to abound; overflow; be more than enough
Why it matters Christian hope is not thin survival but Spirit-empowered abundance.
Form in passage Dative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense power; might; effective ability
Definition Hope overflows by the power of the Holy Spirit, and Paul's mission is empowered by the Spirit.
References Romans 15:13, 15:19
Lexicon power; might; effective ability
Why it matters Unity, hope, and mission depend on divine power, not human energy alone.
Individual words ἀφῆκεν τὸ πνεῦμα aphēken to pneuma · φιλήματι ἁγίῳ philēmati hagiō · βδέλυγμα ἐνώπιον τοῦ θεοῦ bdelygma enōpion tou theou
Sense Holy Spirit; Spirit of God
Definition The Spirit empowers hope, sanctifies Gentiles, and empowers Paul's mission.
References Romans 15:13, 15:16, 15:19, 15:30
Lexicon Holy Spirit; Spirit of God
Why it matters Romans 15 presents the Spirit as essential to hope, holiness, and mission.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense goodness; moral uprightness; benevolence
Definition Paul is convinced the Romans are full of goodness.
References Romans 15:14
Lexicon goodness; moral uprightness; benevolence
Why it matters Paul affirms spiritual maturity in the Roman believers before exhorting and instructing them.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense knowledge; understanding
Definition The Romans are filled with knowledge and able to instruct one another.
References Romans 15:14
Lexicon knowledge; understanding
Why it matters Healthy churches combine goodness and knowledge for mutual instruction.
Form in passage Present · Active · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to instruct; admonish; counsel with warning
Definition The Roman believers are able to instruct one another.
References Romans 15:14
Lexicon to instruct; admonish; counsel with warning
Why it matters Paul expects mature believers to participate in mutual pastoral care and correction.
Sense more boldly; courageously
Definition Paul wrote boldly on some points to remind the Romans.
References Romans 15:15
Lexicon more boldly; courageously
Why it matters Pastoral boldness can coexist with affection and confidence in believers.
Sense grace; unearned favor; enabling gift
Definition Paul's apostolic boldness and ministry arise from grace given by God.
References Romans 15:15
Lexicon grace; unearned favor; enabling gift
Why it matters Ministry authority is grace-given, not self-generated.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense minister; public servant; cultic servant
Definition Paul is a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles.
References Romans 15:16
Lexicon minister; public servant; cultic servant
Why it matters Paul frames apostolic mission as sacred service.
Form in passage Present · Active · Participle · Singular What is this?
Sense to perform priestly service; serve in sacred ministry
Definition Paul performs priestly service with the gospel of God.
References Romans 15:16
Lexicon to perform priestly service; serve in sacred ministry
Why it matters Gentile evangelism is pictured as worshipful priestly ministry.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense gospel; good news
Definition Paul's priestly service is the proclamation of the gospel of God.
References Romans 15:16, 15:19-20
Lexicon gospel; good news
Why it matters The gospel is the means by which Gentiles become an offering to God.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense offering; sacrificial gift
Definition The Gentiles become an acceptable offering to God.
References Romans 15:16
Lexicon offering; sacrificial gift
Why it matters Mission aims at people becoming worshipful offerings to God.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense acceptable; pleasingly received
Definition The Gentile offering is acceptable to God.
References Romans 15:16
Lexicon acceptable; pleasingly received
Why it matters Gentiles are received by God through the gospel and sanctification of the Spirit.
Form in passage Perfect · Passive · Participle · Singular What is this?
Sense to sanctify; make holy; consecrate
Definition The Gentiles are sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
References Romans 15:16
Lexicon to sanctify; make holy; consecrate
Why it matters The Spirit consecrates Gentile believers as holy and acceptable to God.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense boasting; glorying; ground of confidence
Definition Paul glories in Christ Jesus in his service to God.
References Romans 15:17
Lexicon boasting; glorying; ground of confidence
Why it matters Paul's only ministry boast is in Christ and what Christ has done.
Form in passage Aorist · Middle · Indicative · 3rd Person · Singular What is this?
Sense to accomplish; produce; bring about
Definition Paul speaks only of what Christ accomplished through him.
References Romans 15:18
Lexicon to accomplish; produce; bring about
Why it matters Mission fruit belongs to Christ's effective work, not Paul's self-promotion.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense obedience; submissive response
Definition Christ worked through Paul to bring Gentiles to obedience.
References Romans 15:18
Lexicon obedience; submissive response
Why it matters The gospel summons nations to obedient faith, not mere awareness.
Individual words ἀποδίδωμι λόγον apodidōmi logon · πλουτεῖν ἐν ἔργοις καλοῖς ploutein en ergois kalois
Form in passage Dative · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense word and deed; speech and action
Definition Gentile obedience came through Paul's word and deed.
References Romans 15:18
Lexicon word and deed; speech and action
Why it matters Apostolic ministry combined proclamation and embodied action.
Form in passage Genitive · Plural · Neuter What is this?
Sense signs; miraculous indicators
Definition Paul's ministry was accompanied by signs.
References Romans 15:19
Lexicon signs; miraculous indicators
Why it matters Signs authenticated and accompanied apostolic gospel ministry.
Form in passage Genitive · Plural · Neuter What is this?
Sense wonders; miraculous works producing awe
Definition Paul's ministry was accompanied by wonders.
References Romans 15:19
Lexicon wonders; miraculous works producing awe
Why it matters Wonders displayed divine power in the mission to the nations.
Form in passage Perfect · Active · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to fulfill; complete; fully carry out
Definition Paul fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ from Jerusalem to Illyricum.
References Romans 15:19
Lexicon to fulfill; complete; fully carry out
Why it matters Paul understood His regional pioneer work as completed in a strategic sense.
Form in passage Present · Middle · Participle · Singular What is this?
Sense to aspire; make it one's ambition; strive eagerly
Definition Paul made it his ambition to preach where Christ was not known.
References Romans 15:20
Lexicon to aspire; make it one's ambition; strive eagerly
Why it matters Paul's ambition was governed by gospel advance, not personal fame.
Form in passage Present · Middle · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to announce good news; preach the gospel
Definition Paul's ambition was to preach the gospel where Christ was not known.
References Romans 15:20
Lexicon to announce good news; preach the gospel
Why it matters The gospel is announced news that must reach those who have not heard.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense foundation; base of a building
Definition Paul did not want to build on another person's foundation.
References Romans 15:20
Lexicon foundation; base of a building
Why it matters Paul's apostolic strategy focused on pioneer gospel work.
Form in passage Imperfect · Passive · Indicative · 1st Person · Singular What is this?
Sense to hinder; impede; prevent
Definition Paul was often hindered from coming to Rome because of his mission work.
References Romans 15:22
Lexicon to hinder; impede; prevent
Why it matters Paul's delay was driven by gospel priority, not neglect of the Roman church.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense longing; deep desire
Definition Paul had long desired to visit the Roman believers.
References Romans 15:23
Lexicon longing; deep desire
Why it matters Paul's mission strategy did not cancel pastoral affection.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense Spain; western region of the Roman world
Definition Paul planned to go to Spain and visit Rome on the way.
References Romans 15:24, 15:28
Lexicon Spain; western region of the Roman world
Why it matters Spain represents Paul's westward pioneer missionary ambition.
Form in passage Aorist · Passive · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to send forward; assist on a journey
Definition Paul hoped the Romans would assist him on his journey to Spain.
References Romans 15:24
Lexicon to send forward; assist on a journey
Why it matters The Roman church was being invited into material and logistical mission partnership.
Form in passage Present · Active · Participle · Singular What is this?
Sense to serve; minister; provide practical aid
Definition Paul was going to Jerusalem to serve the Lord's people.
References Romans 15:25
Lexicon to serve; minister; provide practical aid
Why it matters Delivering material aid is genuine ministry.
Form in passage Dative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense holy ones; saints; consecrated people of God
Definition Paul carries aid to the saints in Jerusalem.
References Romans 15:25-26, 15:31
Lexicon holy ones; saints; consecrated people of God
Why it matters Believers are holy people whose needs call forth covenant family care.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense fellowship; sharing; contribution
Definition Macedonia and Achaia made a contribution for the poor among the saints.
References Romans 15:26
Lexicon fellowship; sharing; contribution
Why it matters Material giving is fellowship in action, not mere philanthropy.
Form in passage Accusative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense poor; economically needy
Definition The contribution was for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem.
References Romans 15:26
Lexicon poor; economically needy
Why it matters Gospel unity includes care for economically needy believers.
Form in passage Aorist · Active · Indicative · 3rd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense to be pleased; choose gladly; think good
Definition Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make the contribution.
References Romans 15:26-27
Lexicon to be pleased; choose gladly; think good
Why it matters Generosity should be glad and willing, not merely coerced.
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense debtors; those obligated
Definition Gentiles owe material service because they shared in Jewish spiritual blessings.
References Romans 15:27
Lexicon debtors; those obligated
Why it matters Paul gives a theological reason for Gentile material support of Jewish believers.
Form in passage Dative · Plural · Neuter What is this?
Sense spiritual things; spiritual blessings
Definition Gentiles shared in the Jews' spiritual blessings.
References Romans 15:27
Lexicon spiritual things; spiritual blessings
Why it matters Gentile salvation is indebted to the spiritual blessings mediated through Israel.
Form in passage Dative · Plural · Neuter What is this?
Sense material things; bodily or earthly goods
Definition Gentiles owe service to Jewish believers in material blessings.
References Romans 15:27
Lexicon material things; bodily or earthly goods
Why it matters Spiritual participation creates material responsibility.
Form in passage Aorist · Middle · Participle · Singular What is this?
Sense to seal; confirm; secure completion
Definition Paul speaks of completing or sealing the delivery of the contribution.
References Romans 15:28
Lexicon to seal; confirm; secure completion
Why it matters Paul treats the collection as a serious entrusted ministry requiring completion.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense blessing; benefit; divine favor
Definition Paul expects to come in the full measure of the blessing of Christ.
References Romans 15:29
Lexicon blessing; benefit; divine favor
Why it matters Paul's visit is framed as Christ's blessing, not mere travel.
Form in passage Present · Active · Indicative · 1st Person · Singular What is this?
Sense to urge; appeal; exhort
Definition Paul urges the Romans to join him in prayer.
References Romans 15:30
Lexicon to urge; appeal; exhort
Why it matters Missionary prayer partnership is an apostolic appeal, not optional politeness.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense love; self-giving covenant affection
Definition Paul appeals by the love of the Spirit.
References Romans 15:30
Lexicon love; self-giving covenant affection
Why it matters The Spirit's love binds believers into shared prayer and mission struggle.
Form in passage Aorist · Middle · Infinitive What is this?
Sense to struggle together; contend alongside
Definition Paul asks the Romans to join him in his struggle through prayer.
References Romans 15:30
Lexicon to struggle together; contend alongside
Why it matters Prayer is active participation in gospel conflict and mission labor.
Form in passage Dative · Plural · Feminine What is this?
Sense prayers; petitions to God
Definition The Roman believers join Paul's struggle by prayers to God.
References Romans 15:30
Lexicon prayers; petitions to God
Why it matters Mission depends on God's action sought through the prayers of the church.
Form in passage Aorist · Passive · Subjunctive · 1st Person · Singular What is this?
Sense to rescue; deliver
Definition Paul asks prayer that he may be delivered from unbelievers in Judea.
References Romans 15:31
Lexicon to rescue; deliver
Why it matters Mission involves real danger and need for divine protection.
Form in passage Present · Active · Participle · Plural What is this?
Sense to disobey; refuse belief; be unpersuaded
Definition Paul asks protection from those who are unbelieving or disobedient in Judea.
References Romans 15:31
Lexicon to disobey; refuse belief; be unpersuaded
Why it matters Opposition to the gospel is both unbelief and disobedience.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense acceptable; favorably received
Definition Paul asks prayer that his service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints.
References Romans 15:31
Lexicon acceptable; favorably received
Why it matters Even a generous gift needed prayer for relational and covenantal reception.
Individual words μὴ ποιήσας πρὸς τὸ θέλημα αὐτοῦ mē poiēsas pros to thelēma autou · βδέλυγμα ἐνώπιον τοῦ θεοῦ bdelygma enōpion tou theou
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense will of God; divine purpose
Definition Paul hopes to come to Rome by God's will.
References Romans 15:32
Lexicon will of God; divine purpose
Why it matters Mission plans are real but submitted to God's sovereign will.
Form in passage Aorist · Middle · Subjunctive · 1st Person · Singular What is this?
Sense to be refreshed together; rest with
Definition Paul hopes to be refreshed in the Romans' company.
References Romans 15:32
Lexicon to be refreshed together; rest with
Why it matters Gospel ministers need mutual refreshment with the church.
Individual words βδέλυγμα ἐνώπιον τοῦ θεοῦ bdelygma enōpion tou theou · βασιλεὺς εἰρήνης basileus eirēnēs
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense God of peace
Definition Paul blesses the Roman believers with the presence of the God of peace.
References Romans 15:33
Lexicon God of peace
Why it matters The chapter's unity, mission, prayer, and fellowship are held under God's peace.
Lexicon data: MorphGNT Strong's Dictionary XML (CC0) · Open Scriptures Hebrew Bible (CC BY 4.0) · Open Scriptures Hebrew Lexicon (CC BY 4.0) · STEPBible Data (CC BY 4.0) · Full details
Discourse Connectives (45)
grounds / explanation 9inference / conclusion 2strong contrast / correction 2purpose clause 6result clause 1conditional (subjunctive / open) 2content marker or causal 2comparative / scriptural grounding 4continuation or mild contrast 13additive / emphatic 4
| v.1 | δὲnowcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.2 | γάρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point. |
| v.3 | καὶEvenadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together.γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point.ἀλλὰbutstrong contrast / correctionAsk: what is being set aside? What is being asserted instead?καθὼςeven ascomparative / scriptural groundingWhen Paul writes καθώς γέγραπται ('just as it is written'), he is providing scriptural warrant for everything preceding it. |
| v.4 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point.ἵναso thatpurpose clauseἵνα clauses often contain the theological payoff: 'so that God might...' |
| v.5 | δὲnowcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.6 | ἵναso thatpurpose clauseἵνα clauses often contain the theological payoff: 'so that God might...' |
| v.7 | καθὼςeven ascomparative / scriptural groundingWhen Paul writes καθώς γέγραπται ('just as it is written'), he is providing scriptural warrant for everything preceding it. |
| v.8 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point. |
| v.9 | δὲand [for]continuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast.καθὼςeven ascomparative / scriptural groundingWhen Paul writes καθώς γέγραπται ('just as it is written'), he is providing scriptural warrant for everything preceding it. |
| v.10 | καὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.11 | καὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.12 | καὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.13 | δὲAndcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.14 | δέ,now,continuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast.ὅτιthatcontent marker or causalIf ὅτι follows a verb of speaking/knowing/believing, it introduces content. If it follows a statement, it introduces a reason. |
| v.15 | δὲhowevercontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.16 | ἵναso thatpurpose clauseἵνα clauses often contain the theological payoff: 'so that God might...' |
| v.17 | οὖνthereforeinference / conclusionAsk: what has Paul argued up to this point? 'Therefore' is the payoff. |
| v.18 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point. |
| v.19 | ὥστεso asresult clauseὥστε states what happens as a consequence. ἵνα states what is intended. |
| v.20 | δὲnowcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast.ἵναso thatpurpose clauseἵνα clauses often contain the theological payoff: 'so that God might...' |
| v.21 | ἀλλὰRatherstrong contrast / correctionAsk: what is being set aside? What is being asserted instead?καθὼςeven ascomparative / scriptural groundingWhen Paul writes καθώς γέγραπται ('just as it is written'), he is providing scriptural warrant for everything preceding it. |
| v.23 | δὲhowevercontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast.δὲnowcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.24 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point.ἐὰνifconditional (subjunctive / open)ἐάν + subjunctive signals an open condition: 'if (as may be the case)...' |
| v.25 | δὲhowevercontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.26 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point. |
| v.27 | γάρ,for,grounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point.εἰIfconditional clauseAsk whether Paul treats the 'if' as assumed true (1st class) or merely hypothetical.γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point. |
| v.28 | οὖνthereforeinference / conclusionAsk: what has Paul argued up to this point? 'Therefore' is the payoff. |
| v.29 | δὲnowcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast.ὅτιthatcontent marker or causalIf ὅτι follows a verb of speaking/knowing/believing, it introduces content. If it follows a statement, it introduces a reason. |
| v.30 | δὲnowcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.31 | ἵναso thatpurpose clauseἵνα clauses often contain the theological payoff: 'so that God might...' |
| v.32 | ἵναso thatpurpose clauseἵνα clauses often contain the theological payoff: 'so that God might...' |
| v.33 | δὲAndcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
Discourse data: STEPBible TAGNT (CC BY 4.0)
Verb Aspect (88 main verbs)
completed 12ongoing 9prospective 9resultant 6imperative 5subjunctive 7optative 2background 1infinitive 19participle 18
| v.1 | Ὀφείλομενopheílōoughtpresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthβαστάζεινbearpresent active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbἀρέσκεινpleasepresent active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.2 | ἀρεσκέτωpleasepresent active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortation |
| v.3 | ἤρεσενpleaseaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionγέγραπταιgráphōwrittenperfect passive indicativeresultantPerfect indicative — completed action with present resultὀνειδιζόντωνoneidízōinsultpresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionἐπέπεσανepipíptōfallenaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed action |
| v.4 | προεγράφηprográphōwritten in the pastaorist passive indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionἐγράφηgráphōwrittenaorist passive indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionἔχωμενéchōhavepresent active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.5 | δῴηdídōmigrantaorist active optativeoptativeOptative mood — wish or remote possibilityφρονεῖνphronéōlike-mindedpresent active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.6 | δοξάζητεdoxázōglorifypresent active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.7 | προσλαμβάνεσθεproslambánōacceptpresent middle imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationπροσελάβετοproslambánōacceptedaorist middle indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed action |
| v.8 | λέγωlégōsaypresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthβεβαιῶσαιconfirmaorist active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.9 | δοξάσαιdoxázōglorifyaorist active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbγέγραπταιgráphōwrittenperfect passive indicativeresultantPerfect indicative — completed action with present resultἐξομολογήσομαίexomologéōpraisefuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionψαλῶpsállōsingfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.10 | λέγειlégōsayspresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthΕὐφράνθητεeuphraínōrejoiceaorist passive imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortation |
| v.11 | Αἰνεῖτεpraisepresent active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationἐπαινεσάτωσανepainéōpraiseaorist active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortation |
| v.12 | λέγειlégōsayspresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthἜσταιésomaicomefuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionἀνιστάμενοςrisespresent middle participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionἄρχεινrulepresent active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbἐλπιοῦσινelpízōhopefuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.13 | πληρώσαιplēróōfillaorist active optativeoptativeOptative mood — wish or remote possibilityπιστεύεινpisteúōbelievingpresent active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbπερισσεύεινperisseúōaboundpresent active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.14 | Πέπεισμαιpeíthōconvincedperfect passive indicativeresultantPerfect indicative — completed action with present resultπεπληρωμένοιplēróōfilledperfect passive participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionδυνάμενοιdýnamaiablepresent middle participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionνουθετεῖνnouthetéōinstructpresent active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.15 | ἔγραψαgráphōwrittenaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionἐπαναμιμνῄσκωνepanamimnḗskōremindpresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionδοθεῖσάνdídōmigivenaorist passive participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting action |
| v.16 | ἱερουργοῦνταhierourgéōpriestly servicepresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionἡγιασμένηsanctifiedperfect passive participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting action |
| v.17 | ἔχωéchōhavepresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.18 | τολμήσωtolmáōdarefuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionλαλεῖνlaléōspeakpresent active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbκατειργάσατοkatergázomaiaccomplishedaorist middle indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed action |
| v.19 | πεπληρωκέναιplēróōfully proclaimedperfect active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.20 | φιλοτιμούμενονphilotiméomaimake ~ ambitionpresent middle participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionεὐαγγελίζεσθαιeuangelízōpreach the gospelpresent middle infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbὠνομάσθηonomázōnamedaorist passive indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionοἰκοδομῶoikodoméōbuildpresent active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.21 | γέγραπταιgráphōwrittenperfect passive indicativeresultantPerfect indicative — completed action with present resultἀνηγγέληtoldaorist passive indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionὄψονταιhoráōseefuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionἀκηκόασινheardperfect active indicativeresultantPerfect indicative — completed action with present resultσυνήσουσινsyníēmiunderstandfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.22 | ἐνεκοπτόμηνenkóptōhinderedimperfect passive indicativebackgroundImperfect indicative — continuous or repeated past actionἐλθεῖνérchomaicomingaorist active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.23 | ἔχωνéchōhavepresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionἔχωνéchōhavepresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionἐλθεῖνérchomaicomeaorist active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.24 | πορεύωμαιporeúomaigopresent middle subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentἐλπίζωelpízōhopepresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthδιαπορευόμενοςdiaporeúomaipassing throughpresent middle participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionθεάσασθαιtheáomaiseeaorist middle infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbπροπεμφθῆναιpropémpōhelped on my wayaorist passive infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbἐμπλησθῶempíplēmienjoyedaorist passive subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.25 | πορεύομαιporeúomaigoingpresent middle indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthδιακονῶνdiakonéōservingpresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting action |
| v.26 | εὐδόκησανeudokéōpleasedaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionποιήσασθαιpoiéōmakeaorist middle infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.27 | εὐδόκησανeudokéōpleasedaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionἐκοινώνησανkoinōnéōsharedaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionὀφείλουσινopheílōoughtpresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthλειτουργῆσαιleitourgéōministeraorist active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.28 | ἐπιτελέσαςepiteléōcompletedaorist active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionσφραγισάμενοςsphragízōsealedaorist middle participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionἀπελεύσομαιgofuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.29 | οἶδαeídōknowperfect active indicativeresultantPerfect indicative — completed action with present resultἐρχόμενοςérchomaicomepresent middle participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionἐλεύσομαιérchomaicomefuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.30 | Παρακαλῶparakaléōappeal topresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthσυναγωνίσασθαίsynagōnízomaistrive together withaorist middle infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.31 | ῥυσθῶrhýomairescuedaorist passive subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentἀπειθούντωνunbelieverspresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting action |
| v.32 | ἐλθὼνérchomaicomeaorist active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionσυναναπαύσωμαιsynanapaúomairefreshedaorist middle subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
Verb forms indicate aspect — not interpretive weight. Consult context before drawing conclusions about emphasis.
Clause data: MACULA Greek (Clear Bible, CC BY 4.0) · SBLGNT (Logos/SBL, CC BY 4.0)
Word Pictures (Robertson)
A.T. Robertson, Word Pictures in the New Testament (1930–31) — public domain
Formation Focus
To show that Christ's acceptance, self-denial, fulfillment of Israel's promises, mercy to Gentiles, and ongoing mission through the Spirit shape the church's unity, hope, worship, and missionary partnership.
To form strong believers who bear with the weak, congregations that glorify God with one voice, churches that see Gentile mission as worship, and believers who partner through giving and prayer.
Self-denial, patience, neighbor-building love, Scripture-rooted hope, unity, mutual acceptance, missionary zeal, humility, generosity, prayerful struggle, and peace.
Practice Response
- Identify one weaker believer You can bear with rather than correct harshly.
- Ask before using freedom: Will this please myself or build up my neighbor?
- Meditate on Christ not pleasing Himself and apply it to one current church tension.
- Read an Old Testament passage asking how it gives endurance, encouragement, and hope.
- Pray for one-minded and one-voiced worship in Your church.
- Practice accepting a believer as Christ accepted You, for God's glory.
- Thank God that Christ confirmed Israel's promises and brought Gentiles into mercy.
- Memorize Romans 15:13 and pray it over discouraged believers.
- Name one ministry fruit that only Christ could have accomplished.
- Pray for people or places where Christ is not known.
- Give materially in a way that reflects shared spiritual blessing.
- Join a missionary or ministry leader's struggle through specific prayer.
- Pray for protection, open reception of ministry, joyful fellowship, refreshment, and peace.
Warnings and Misreadings
- Romans 15 warns against self-pleasing strength, failure to bear with the weak, refusal to accept fellow believers, disunity that fractures worship, forgetting the Jew-Gentile mercy structure of the gospel, boasting in ministry apart from Christ's work, neglecting unreached mission, and failing to support gospel labor through prayer and material partnership.
- The strong are free to do whatever their conscience permits. - Paul says the strong are obligated to bear with the weak and not please themselves.
- Bearing with the weak means letting weakness control the whole church permanently. - Paul calls for love and edification, not permanent immaturity. The aim is the neighbor's good and building up.
- Christ's example is merely moral inspiration. - Christ's self-denial fulfills Scripture and flows from His redemptive mission. It grounds the church's life in the gospel.
- The Old Testament is only background information for Christians. - Paul says whatever was written in the past was written to teach believers and give endurance, encouragement, and hope.
- Accepting one another means ignoring truth. - Mutual acceptance is grounded in Christ's acceptance and ordered toward God's glory, not indifference to doctrine.
- Gentile inclusion replaces Israel's promises. - Paul says Christ confirms the promises to the patriarchs and brings Gentiles to glorify God for mercy.
- Mission is mainly human strategy and ambition. - Paul glories only in what Christ accomplished through Him by the power of the Spirit.
- Gentile mission is detached from worship. - Paul frames Gentile mission in priestly terms: Gentiles become an acceptable offering sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
- Material giving is secondary and non-theological. - Paul treats the Gentile contribution to Jerusalem as an obligation rooted in shared spiritual blessings.
- Prayer is a polite add-on to mission. - Paul urges the Romans to join His struggle by praying, showing that prayer is active mission partnership.
Discipleship Questions
- Where am I using strength to please myself rather than bear with the weak?
- Does my conduct build up my neighbor or merely express my preference?
- How does Christ's refusal to please Himself confront my use of freedom?
- Am I reading Scripture as the God-given source of endurance, encouragement, and hope?
- Does my presence in the church strengthen one-minded worship or fragment it?
- Have I accepted others as Christ accepted me, or only when they match my preferences?
- How does Jew-Gentile unity in Christ reshape my view of mercy and mission?
- Do I treat Gentile inclusion as mercy that glorifies God?
- Am I filled with joy and peace in believing, or am I operating from anxiety and control?
- What would overflowing hope by the Spirit look like in my current ministry context?
- Do I boast in what Christ has done, or in what I think I have accomplished?
- Does my ministry aim at obedient worship among people, or merely activity and output?
- Do I care about places and people where Christ is not known?
- How should shared spiritual blessing produce material generosity?
- Am I participating in mission through sustained, struggling prayer?
- Who needs me to pray for protection, acceptance of ministry, joy, and refreshment?
Pastoral Applications
- Romans 15 calls mature believers to carry the weak, not crush them, mock them, or organize the church around personal preference.
- Maturity is measured by willingness to deny self for the neighbor's good and edification.
- Romans 15 should be preached as the culmination of the weak-strong section and as a bridge from church unity to global mission.
- Believers should be taught to read the Old Testament as Christian Scripture that gives endurance, encouragement, and hope.
- The aim of mutual acceptance is not sentimental peace but one-minded, one-voiced glorification of God.
- The church must hold together Christ's confirmation of Israel's promises and Gentile mercy without arrogance or erasure.
- Paul's ambition to preach where Christ is not known should challenge churches to care about unreached people and frontier mission.
- Paul models encouragement before correction, affirming the Roman believers' goodness and knowledge while still writing boldly.
- Material generosity is not merely financial · it expresses shared participation in spiritual blessing and unity in the body of Christ.
- The church joins missionary struggle through prayer that is specific, urgent, and tied to real ministry risks and goals.
- Paul asks for refreshment in fellowship, reminding ministry leaders and congregations that mutual encouragement is not weakness but biblical need.
- The God of hope fills believers with joy and peace in believing so that hope overflows by the Spirit, even amid mission strain and church tensions.
Pastoral Trajectories
Christian strength is redirected from self-pleasing to carrying the weak.
The mature believer asks whether a practice builds up the neighbor.
Christ's refusal to please Himself becomes the shape of Christian community life.
The Scriptures teach endurance and encouragement so believers may hope.
Paul wants more than coexistence; He wants one-minded, one-voiced glorification of God.
Believers accept one another because Christ accepted them and because God is praised through that acceptance.
Christ confirms the promises to Israel and brings Gentiles into mercy and worship.
The unity of the Roman church is tied to the wider mission of bringing Gentiles to obedience.
Paul views mission as priestly service presenting Gentiles to God, sanctified by the Spirit.
Paul glories only in what Christ has done through Him.
Paul's ambition presses beyond reached areas toward those who have not heard.
Gentile participation in Jewish spiritual blessings creates an obligation of tangible generosity.
Paul's mission plans are held under God's will and strengthened by the prayers of the church.
Motifs in This Chapter
Trace servant identity, obedient mission, and suffering service across Scripture.
Trace how divine glory, revealed majesty, and Christ-centered exaltation move across Scripture.
Study holiness as divine character, covenant identity, and sanctified life across Scripture.
Study kingdom reign, divine rule, and gospel kingdom proclamation across Scripture.
Trace remnant preservation, covenant continuity, and mercy under judgment across Scripture.
Trace the Spirit's presence, empowerment, renewal, and mission-bearing work across Scripture.
The Biblical World
Chapter At A Glance
Paul moves from the strong bearing with the weak, to Christ's self-denying example, to Scripture's role in endurance, encouragement, and hope, to a prayer for unified worship, to the command to accept one another as Christ accepted them, to Christ's ministry to Jews and Gentiles, to Old Testament proof of Gentile praise, to Paul's apostolic priestly mission, to His ambition to preach where Christ is not named, to His plans for Jerusalem, Rome, and Spain, and finally to a request for prayer and a blessing of peace.
Romans 15 is a major Jew-Gentile covenant fulfillment chapter. Christ serves Israel by confirming God's truth and patriarchal promises, and He brings Gentiles into mercy so they glorify God with Israel. The church's mutual acceptance is rooted in this covenant fulfillment. Paul's Gentile mission presents the nations as an acceptable offering sanctified by the Spirit, and the Gentile contribution to Jerusalem embodies shared participation in Israel's spiritual blessings.
Romans 15 clarifies that the gospel creates a self-denying, Scripture-sustained, hope-filled, Jew-Gentile worshiping people. Christ accepts believers, confirms God's promises to Israel, brings mercy to Gentiles, and sends gospel ministry to the nations. The gospel produces unity, worship, mission, generosity, prayer, and hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Self-denial, patience, neighbor-building love, Scripture-rooted hope, unity, mutual acceptance, missionary zeal, humility, generosity, prayerful struggle, and peace.
Focus Points
- Strong bearing with weak
- Self-denial
- Neighbor-good
- Edification
- Christ's example
- Scripture's instruction
- Endurance
- Encouragement
- Hope
- Unity of mind
- Unified worship
- Mutual acceptance
- Christ's acceptance
- God's praise
- Christ as servant of the circumcision
- Truth of God
- Patriarchal promises
- Gentile mercy
- Gentile praise
- Root of Jesse
- God of hope
- Joy and peace in believing
- Power of the Holy Spirit
- Apostolic grace
- Priestly gospel ministry
- Gentiles as offering
- Sanctification by the Holy Spirit
- Obedience of the Gentiles
- Signs and wonders
- Mission to unreached places
- Jew-Gentile material partnership
- Prayer partnership
- God of peace
- The Strong Bear the Weak
- Christlike Self-Denial
- Scripture Produces Hope
- Accept One Another
- Christ the Servant of Israel
- Gentiles Glorify God for Mercy
- The Root of Jesse
- Priestly Mission
- Christ Accomplishes Mission Through Servants
- Unreached Gospel Ambition
- Material Partnership Between Gentiles and Jews
- Prayer as Mission Participation
- Scripture
- Church Unity
- Promises to the Patriarchs
- Davidic Christology
- Holy Spirit
- Mission
- Apostolic Ministry
- Generosity
- Prayer
- Peace
Cross References
For the zeal of Your house consumes me. The reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me.
Christ’s reproach
Now Yahweh said to Abram, “Leave Your country, and Your relatives, and Your father’s house, and go to the land that I will show You. I will make of You a great nation. I will bless You and make Your name great. You will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless You, and I will curse Him who treats You with contempt. All the families of the earth will be...
Patriarchal promises and nations
All the nations of the earth will be blessed by Your offspring, because You have obeyed my voice.’ ”
Nations blessed through Abraham’s offspring
Rejoice, You nations, with His people, for He will avenge the blood of His servants. He will take vengeance on His adversaries, and will make atonement for His land and for His people.
Gentiles rejoice with God’s people
Therefore I will give thanks to You, Yahweh, among the nations, and will sing praises to Your name.
Praise among Gentiles
Praise Yahweh, all You nations! Extol Him, all You peoples!
All nations praise the Lord
It will happen in that day that the nations will seek the root of Jesse, who stands as a banner of the peoples; and His resting place will be glorious.
Root of Jesse and Gentile hope
So He will cleanse many nations. Kings will shut their mouths at Him; for they will see that which had not been told them, and they will understand that which they had not heard.
Unreached seeing and understanding
“For I know their works and their thoughts. The time comes that I will gather all nations and languages, and they will come, and will see my glory. “I will set a sign among them, and I will send those who escape of them to the nations, to Tarshish, Pul, and Lud, who draw the bow, to Tubal and Javan, to far-away islands, who have not heard my fame, nor have...
Nations as offering
Through whom we received grace and apostleship for obedience of faith among all the nations for His name’s sake;
Obedience of faith among Gentiles
Now accept one who is weak in faith, but not for disputes over opinions. One man has faith to eat all things, but He who is weak eats only vegetables. Don’t let Him who eats despise Him who doesn’t eat. Don’t let Him who doesn’t eat judge Him who eats, for God has accepted Him.
Immediate context of weak and strong
Gentile obedience conclusion
After the uproar had ceased, Paul sent for the disciples, took leave of them, and departed to go into Macedonia. When He had gone through those parts, and had encouraged them with many words, He came into Greece. When He had spent three months there, and a plot was made against Him by Jews as He was about to set sail for Syria, He determined to return...
Paul’s travel context
Now after some years, I came to bring gifts for the needy to my nation, and offerings;
Aid for Jerusalem
Let no one seek His own, but each one His neighbor’s good.
Seek neighbor’s good
Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I commanded the assemblies of Galatia, You do likewise. On the first day of every week, let each one of You save, as He may prosper, that no collections are made when I come. When I arrive, I will send whoever You approve with letters to carry Your gracious gift to Jerusalem.
Collection for Jerusalem
Moreover, brothers, we make known to You the grace of God which has been given in the assemblies of Macedonia, how in much proof of affliction, the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their generosity. For according to their power, I testify, yes and beyond their power, they gave of their own accord,
Theology of generous giving
The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the Good News beforehand to Abraham, saying, “In You all the nations will be blessed.” So then, those who are of faith are blessed with the faithful Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law are under a curse. For it is written, “Cursed is everyone who doesn’t...
Gentile blessing through Abraham
Therefore remember that once You, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “uncircumcision” by that which is called “circumcision” (in the flesh, made by hands), that You were at that time separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of the promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in...
Jew-Gentile unity
With all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perseverance and requests for all the saints: on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in opening my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the Good News, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought...
Prayer for gospel mission
Continue steadfastly in prayer, watching in it with thanksgiving, praying together for us also, that God may open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds, that I may reveal it as I ought to speak.
Prayer for open gospel doors
But You remain in the things which You have learned and have been assured of, knowing from whom You have learned them. From infancy, You have known the holy Scriptures which are able to make You wise for salvation through faith, which is in Christ Jesus. Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for...
Scripture’s usefulness
Passages
Chapter opening: Romans 15:1-6
We the strong (ημεις ο δυνατο). Paul identifies himself with this wing in the controversy. He means the morally strong as in 2Co 12:10 ; 13:9 , not the mighty as in 1Co 1:26 . The infirmities (τα ασθενηματα). "The weaknesses" (cf. ασθενων in 14:1 , 2 ), the scruples "of the not strong" (των αδυνατων). See Ac 14:8 where it is used of the man weak in his feet (impotent).
To bear (βασταζειν). As in Ga 6:2 , common in the figurative sense. Not to please ourselves (μη εαυτοις αρεσκειν). Precisely Paul's picture of his own conduct in 1Co 10:33 .
For that which is good (εις το αγαθον). "For the good." As in 14:16 , 19 . Not to please men just for popular favours, but for their benefit.
Pleased not himself (ουχ εαυτω ηρεσεν). Aorist active indicative of αρεσκω with the usual dative. The supreme example for Christians. See 14:15 . He quotes Ps 69:9 (Messianic Psalm) and represents the Messiah as bearing the reproaches of others.
Were written aforetime (προεγραφη). Second aorist passive indicative of προγραφω, old verb, in N. T. only here, Ga 3:1 (which see); Eph 3:3 ; Jude 1:4 . For our learning (εις την ημετεραν διδασκαλιαν). "For the instruction of us." Objective sense of possessive pronoun ημετερος. See Mt 15:9 ; 2Ti 3:16 for διδασκαλιαν (from διδασκω, to teach). We might have hope (την ελπιδα εχωμεν).
Present active subjunctive of εχω with ινα in final clause, "that we might keep on having hope." One of the blessed uses of the Scriptures.
The God of patience and comfort (ο θεος της υπομονης κα της παρακλησεως). Genitive case of the two words in verse 4 used to describe God who uses the Scriptures to reveal himself to us. See 2Co 1:3 for this idea; Ro 15:13 for "the God of hope"; 15:33 for "the God of peace." Grant you (δωιη υμιν). Second aorist active optative ( Koine form for older δοιη) as in 2Th 3:16 ; Eph 1:17 ; 2Ti 1:16 , 18 ; 2:25 , though MSS.
vary in Eph 1:17 ; 2Ti 2:25 for δωη (subjunctive). The optative here is for a wish for the future (regular idiom). According to Christ Jesus (κατα Χριστον Ιησουν). "According to the character or example of Christ Jesus" ( 2Co 11:17 ; Col 2:8 ; Eph 5:24 ).
With one accord (ομοθυμαδον). Here alone in Paul, but eleven times in Acts ( Ac 1:14 , etc.). With one mouth (εν εν στοματ). Vivid outward expression of the unity of feeling. May glorify (δοξαζητε). Present active subjunctive of δοξαζω, final clause with ινα "that ye may keep on glorifying." For "the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" see 2Co 1:3 ; 9:31 for discussion. It occurs also in Eph 1:3 ; 1Pe 1:3 .
Receive ye (προσλαμβανεσθε as in 14:1 ), received (προσελαβετο, here of Christ as in 14:3 of God). The repetition here is addressed to both the strong and the weak and the "us" (ημας) includes all.
A minister of the circumcision (διακονον περιτομης). Objective genitive, "a minister to the circumcision." Διακονον is predicate accusative with γεγενησθα (perfect passive infinitive of γινομα in indirect assertion after λεγω, I say) and in apposition with Χριστον, accusative of general reference with the infinitive. See Ga 4:4 f . That he might confirm (εις το βεβαιωσα).
Purpose clause with εις το and the infinitive βεβαιωσα (first aorist active of βεβαιοω, to make stand). The promises given unto the fathers (τας επαγγελιας των πατερων). No "given" in the Greek, just the objective genitive, "the promises to the fathers." See 9:4 , 5 .
And that the Gentiles might praise (τα δε εθνη δοξασα). Coordinate with βεβαιωσα and εις το, to be repeated with τα εθνη, the accusative of general reference and τον θεον the object of δοξασα. Thus the Gentiles were called through the promise to the Jews in the covenant with Abraham ( 4:11 f. , 16 f. ). Salvation is of the Jews. Paul proves his position by a chain of quotations from the O.
T. , the one in verse 9 from Ps 18:50 . For εξομολογεω, see 14:10 . I will sing (ψαλω). Future active of ψαλλω, for which verb see on 1Co 14:15 .
Rejoice, ye Gentiles (ευφρανθητε). First aorist passive imperative of ευφραινω, old word from ευ, well and φρην, mind. See Lu 15:32 . Quotation from De 32:43 (LXX).
All the Gentiles (παντα τα εθνη). From Ps 117:1 with slight variations from the LXX text.
The root (η ριζα). Rather here, as in Re 5:5 ; 23:16 , the sprout from the root. From Isa 11:10 . On him shall the Gentiles hope (επ' αυτω εθνη ελπιουσιν). Attic future of ελπιζω for the usual ελπισουσιν.
The God of hope (ο θεος της ελπιδος). Taking up the idea in verse 12 as in verse 5 from 4 . Fill you (πληρωσα υμας). Optative (first aorist active of πληροω) of wish for the future. Cf. δωιη in verse 5 . In believing (εν τω πιστευειν). "In the believing" (εν with locative of the articular infinitive, the idiom so common in Luke's Gospel). That ye may abound (εις το περισσευειν υμας).
Purpose clause with εις το, as in verse 8 , with περισσευειν (present active infinitive of περισσευω, with accusative of general reference, υμας). This verse gathers up the points in the preceding quotations.
I myself also (κα αυτος εγω). See 7:25 for a like emphasis on himself, here in contrast with "ye yourselves" (κα αυτο). The argument of the Epistle has been completed both in the main line (chapters 1-8 ) and the further applications ( 9:1-15:13 ). Here begins the Epilogue, the personal matters of importance. Full of goodness (μεστο αγαθοσυνης). See 2Th 1:11 ; Ga 5:22 for this LXX and Pauline word (in ecclesiastical writers also) made from the adjective αγαθος, good, by adding -συνη (common ending for words like δικαιοσυνη.
See 1:29 for μεστος with genitive and πεπληρωμενο (perfect passive participle of πληροω as here), but there with instrumental case after it instead of the genitive. Paul gives the Roman Christians (chiefly Gentiles) high praise. The "all knowledge" is not to be pressed too literally, "our Christian knowledge in its entirety" (Sanday and Headlam). To admonish (νουθετειν).
To put in mind (from νουθετης and this from νους and τιθημ). See on 1Th 5:12 , 14 . "Is it laying too much stress on the language of compliment to suggest that these words give a hint of St. Paul's aim in this Epistle?" (Sanday and Headlam). The strategic position of the church in Rome made it a great centre for radiating and echoing the gospel over the world as Thessalonica did for Macedonia ( 1Th 1:8 ).
I write (εγραψα). Epistolary aorist. The more boldly (τολμηροτερως). Old comparative adverb from τολμηρως. Most MSS. read τολμηροτερον. Only here in N.T. In some measure (απο μερους). Perhaps referring to some portions of the Epistle where he has spoken plainly ( 6:12 , 19 ; 8:9 ; 11:17 ; 14:3 , 4 , 10 , etc.). As putting you again in remembrance (ος επαναμιμνησκων υμας). Delicately put with ως and επ in the verb, "as if calling back to mind again" (επ). This rare verb is here alone in the N.T.
That I should be (εις το εινα με). The εις το idiom with the infinitive again (verses 8 , 13 ). Minister (λειτουργον). Predicate accusative in apposition with με and see 13:6 for the word. "The word here derives from the context the priestly associations which often attach to it in the LXX" (Denney). But this purely metaphorical use does not show that Paul attached a "sacerdotal" character to the ministry.
Ministering (ιερουργουντα). Present active participle of ιερουργεω, late verb from ιερουργος (ιεροσ, εργω), in LXX, Philo, and Josephus, only here in N. T. It means to work in sacred things, to minister as a priest. Paul had as high a conception of his work as a preacher of the gospel as any priest did. The offering up of the Gentiles (η προσφορα των εθνων).
Genitive of apposition, the Gentiles being the offering. They are Paul's offering. See Ac 21:26 . Acceptable (ευπροσδεκτος). See 2Co 6:2 ; 8:12 . Because "sanctified in the Holy Spirit" (ηγιασμενη εν πνευματ αγιω, perfect passive participle of αγιαζω).
In things pertaining to God (τα προς τον θεον). Accusative of general reference of the article used with the prepositional phrase, "as to the things relating to (προς, facing) God."
Any things save those which Christ wrought through me (τ ων ου κατειργασατο Χριστος δι' εμου). Rather, "any one of those things which Christ did not work through me." The antecedent of ων is the unexpressed τουτων and the accusative relative α (object of κατειργασατο) is attracted into the genitive case of τουτων after a common idiom. By word and deed (λογω κα εργω). Instrumental case with both words. By preaching and life ( Lu 24:19 ; Ac 1:1 ; 7:22 ; 2Co 10:11 ).
In power of signs and wonders (εν δυναμε σημειων κα τερατων). Note all three words as in Heb 2:4 , only here δυναμις is connected with σημεια and τερατα. See all three words used of Paul's own work in 2Co 12:12 and in 2Th 2:9 of the Man of Sin. See 1Th 1:5 ; 1Co 2:4 for the "power" of the Holy Spirit in Paul's preaching. Note repetition of εν δυναμε here with πνευματος αγιου.
So that (ωστε). Result expressed by the perfect active infinitive πεπληρωκενα (from πληροω) with the accusative με (general reference). Round about even unto Illyricum (κυκλω μεχρ του Ιλλυρικου). "In a ring" (κυκλω, locative case of κυκλος). Probably a journey during the time when Paul left Macedonia and waited for II Corinthians to have its effect before coming to Corinth.
If so, see 2Co 13 ; Ac 20:1-3 . When he did come, the trouble with the Judaizers was over. Illyricum seems to be the name for the region west of Macedonia (Dalmatia). Strabo says that the Egnatian Way passed through it. Arabia and Illyricum would thus be the extreme limits of Paul's mission journeys so far.
Yea (ουτως δε). "And so," introducing a limitation to the preceding statement. Making it my aim (φιλοτιμουμενον). Present middle participle (accusative case agreeing with με) of φιλοτιμεομα, old verb, to be fond of honour (φιλοσ, τιμη). In N. T. only here and 1Th 4:11 ; 2Co 5:9 . A noble word in itself, quite different in aim from the Latin word for ambition (αμβιο, to go on both sides to carry one's point).
Not where (ουχ οπου). Paul was a pioneer preacher pushing on to new fields after the manner of Daniel Boone in Kentucky. That I might now build upon another man's foundation (ινα μη επ' αλλοτριον θεμελιον οικοδομω). For αλλοτριος (not αλλος) see 14:4 . For θεμελιον, see Lu 6:48 f. ; 1Co 3:11 . This noble ambition of Paul's is not within the range of some ministers who can only build on another's foundation as Apollos did in Corinth.
But the pioneer preacher and missionary has a dignity and glory all his own.
As it is written (καθως γεγραπτα). From Isa 52:15 . Paul finds an illustration of his word about his own ambition in the words of Isaiah. Fritzsche actually argues that Paul understood Isaiah to be predicting his (Paul's) ministry! Some scholars have argued against the genuineness of verses 9-21 on wholly subjective and insufficient grounds.
I was hindered (ενεκοπτομην). Imperfect passive (repetition) of ενκοπτω, late verb, to cut in, to cut off, to interrupt. Seen already in Ac 24:4 ; 1Th 2:18 ; Ga 5:7 . Cf. modern telephone and radio and automobile. These many times (τα πολλα). "As to the many things." In 1:13 Paul used πολλακις (many times) and B D read it here. But Paul's work (τα πολλα) had kept him away. From coming to you (του ελθειν προς υμας). Ablative case (after the verb of hindering) of the articular infinitive, "from the coming."
Having no more any place in these regions (μηκετ τοπον εχων εν τοις κλιμασιν). Surprising frankness that the average preacher would hardly use on such a matter. Paul is now free to come to Rome because there is no demand for him where he is. For κλιμα (from κλινω, to incline), slope, then tract of land, region, see already 2Co 11:10 ; Ga 1:21 (the only N. T.
examples). A longing (επιποθειαν). A hapax legomenon , elsewhere επιποθησις ( 2Co 7:7 , 11 ), from επιποθεω as in Ro 1:11 . These many years (απο ικανων ετων). "From considerable years." So B C, but Aleph A D have πολλων, "from many years."
Whensoever I go (ως αν πορευωμα). Indefinite temporal clause with ως αν and the present middle subjunctive (cf. 1Co 11:34 ; Php 2:23 with aorist subjunctive). Into Spain (εις την Σπανιαν). It was a Roman province with many Jews in it. The Greek name was Ιβερια, the Latin Hispania . The Textus Receptus adds here ελευσομα προς υμας (I shall come to you), but it is not in Aleph A B C D and is not genuine.
Without it we have a parenthesis (or anacoluthon) through the rest of verse 24 . In my journey (διαπορευομενος). Present middle participle, "passing through." Paul planned only a brief stay in Rome since a strong church already existed there. To be brought on my way thitherward (προπεμφθηνα εκε). "To be sent forward there." First aorist passive infinitive of προπεμπω, common word for escorting one on a journey ( 1Co 16:6 , 11 ; 2Co 1:16 ; Tit 3:13 ; 2Jo 1:6 ).
If first in some measure I shall have been satisfied with your company (εαν υμων προτων απο μερους εμπλησθω). Condition of third class with εαν and first aorist passive subjunctive of εμπιμπλημ, old verb, to fill up, to satisfy, to take one's fill. See Lu 6:25 . Literally, "if I first in part be filled with you" (get my fill of you). delicate compliment for the Roman church.
But now (νυν δε). Repeats the very words used in 23 . I go (πορευομα). Futuristic present as in Joh 14:2 . Ministering unto the saints (διακονον τοις αγιοις). Present active participle of purpose like ευλογουντα in Ac 3:26 . This collection had been one of Paul's chief cares for over a year now (see 2Co 8 ; 9 ). See 2Co 8:4 .
For it hath been the good pleasure of Macedonia and Achaia (ηυδοκησαν γαρ Μακεδονια κα Αχαια). "For Macedonia and Achaia took pleasure." The use of ηυδοκησαν (first aorist active indicative of ευδοκεω) shows that it was voluntary ( 2Co 8:4 ). Paul does not here mention Asia and Galatia. A certain contribution (κοινωνιαν τινα). Put thus because it was unknown to the Romans.
For this sense of κοινωνιαν, see 2Co 8:4 ; 9:13 . For the poor among the saints (εις τους πτωχους των αγιων). Partitive genitive. Not all there were poor, but Ac 4:32-5:11 ; 6:1-6 ; 11:29 f. ; Ga 2:10 prove that many were.
Their debtors (οφειλετα αυτων). Objective genitive: the Gentiles are debtors to the Jews. See the word οφειλετης in 1:14 ; 8:12 . For if (ε γαρ). Condition of the first class, assumed as true, first aorist active indicative (εκοινωνησαν, from κοινωνεω, to share) with associative instrumental case (πνευματικοις, spiritual things). To minister unto (λειτουργησα, first aorist active infinitive of λειτουργεω with dative case αυτοις, to them), but here certainly with no "sacerdotal" functions (cf.
verse 16 ). In carnal things (εν τοις σαρκικοις). Things which belong to the natural life of the flesh (σαρξ), not the sinful aspects of the flesh at all.
Have sealed (σφραγισαμενος). First aorist middle participle (antecedent action, having sealed) of σφραγιζω, old verb from σφραγις, a seal ( Ro 4:11 ), to stamp with a seal for security ( Mt 27:66 ) or for confirmation ( 2Co 1:22 ) and here in a metaphorical sense. Paul was keenly sensitive that this collection should be actually conveyed to Jerusalem free from all suspicion ( 2Co 8:18-23 ).
I will go on by you (απελευσομα δι' υμων). Future middle of απερχομα, to go off or on. Note three prepositions here (απ' from Rome, δι' by means of you or through you, εις unto Spain). He repeats the point of verse 24 , his temporary stay in Rome with Spain as the objective. How little we know what is ahead of us and how grateful we should be for our ignorance on this point.
When I come (ερχομενος). Present middle participle of ερχομα with the time of the future middle indicative ελευσομα (coming I shall come). In the fulness of the blessing of Christ (εν πληρωματ ευλογιας Χριστου). On πληρωματ, see 11:12 . Paul had already ( 1:11 f. ) said that he had a χαρισμα πνευματικον (spiritual blessing) for Rome. He did bring that to them.
By (δια). The intermediate agents of the exhortation (the Lord Jesus and the love of the Spirit) as δια is used after παρακαλω in 12:1 . That ye strive together with me (συναγωνισασθα μο). First aorist middle infinitive of συναγων ζομα, old compound verb, only here in N.T., direct object of παρακαλω, and with associative instrumental case μο, the simplex αγωνιζομενος, occurring in Col 4:12 of the prayers of Epaphras. For Christ's agony in prayer see Mt 26:42 ; Lu 22:44 .
That I may be delivered (ινα ρυσθω). First aorist passive subjunctive of ρυομα, old verb to rescue. This use of ινα is the sub-final one after words of beseeching or praying. Paul foresaw trouble all the way to Jerusalem ( Ac 20:23 ; 21:4 , 13 ). May be acceptable to the saints (ευπροσδεκτος τοις αγιοις γενητα). "May become (second aorist middle subjunctive of γινομα) acceptable to the saints." The Judaizers would give him trouble. There was peril of a schism in Christianity.
That (ινα). Second use of ινα in this sentence, the first one sub-final (ινα ρυσθω), this one final with συναναπαυσωμα, first aorist middle subjunctive of the double compound verb συναναπαυομα, late verb to rest together with, to refresh (αναπαυω as in Mt 11:28 ) one's spirit with (συν), with the associative instrumental case υμιν (with you), only here in the N.T.
The God of peace (ο θεος της ειρηνης). One of the characteristics of God that Paul often mentions in benedictions ( 1Th 5:23 ; 2Th 3:16 ; 2Co 13:11 ; Php 4:9 ; Ro 16:20 ). Because of the "amen" here some scholars would make this the close of the Epistle and make chapter 16 a separate Epistle to the Ephesians. But the MSS. are against it. There is nothing strange at all in Paul's having so many friends in Rome though he had not yet been there himself.
Rome was the centre of the world's life as Paul realized ( 1:15 ). All men sooner or later hoped to see Rome.