Paul’s Plan to Visit Rome
October 3, 2022
Commentary
Paul had not been hindered in going to Rome because of Satanic opposition or physical obstacles, but by the challenge of completing his work right where he was. He was the type of person who finished one job before he started another one. Paul had a desire for many years to go to Spain (v. 24) but there is no record in Scripture that he ever did.
Paul had taken up special offerings in the Gentile churches in Greece for the suffering saints in Jerusalem. He viewed this offering as the paying of a debt (v. 27). The Gentiles had received their Spiritual wealth from the Jews, and now they had opportunity to return material wealth in meeting a very real need. Paul also considered himself a “debtor” to the whole world (Romans 1:14). We Christians ought to feel an obligation to Israel, and to pay that debt by praying for Israel, sharing the Gospel, and helping in a material way if the need presents itself. Anti-Semitism has no place in the life of a dedicated Christian.
This offering that Paul was delivering to the saints in Jerusalem was not only the payment of a debt, but it was also “fruit” (v. 28). It was just a natural result of their walk with the Lord. When the ministry of the Holy Spirit is evident in a church, giving is no problem. Paul again tells of his plans for coming to Rome on his way to Spain after delivering the offering in Jerusalem (v. 28). We know that he eventually got to Rome, but not when, or in the manner that he had anticipated (Acts 27-28). However, as we stated before, there is no proof that he ever got to Spain. As Christians we should plan ahead, but we need to be flexible.
Application
Who were the ones who were directly responsible for bringing me to the Lord? Do they have any needs that I could help them with at this time? It could be a spiritual, physical, or financial need.
Romans 15:20– 29 (NET)
20 And in this way I desire to preach where Christ has not been named, so as not to build on another person’s foundation, 21 but as it is written: “Those who were not told about him will see, and those who have not heard will understand.”
22 This is the reason I was often hindered from coming to you. 23 But now there is nothing more to keep me in these regions, and I have for many years desired to come to you 24 when I go to Spain. For I hope to visit you when I pass through and that you will help me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while.
25 But now I go to Jerusalem to minister to the saints. 26 For Macedonia and Achaia are pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem. 27 For they were pleased to do this, and indeed they are indebted to the Jerusalem saints. For if the Gentiles have shared in their spiritual things, they are obligated also to minister to them in material things. 28 Therefore after I have completed this and have safely delivered this bounty to them, I will set out for Spain by way of you, 29 and I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of Christ’s blessing.
Illustration: Chairman of Community Charity Confronts a Tightwad
A notorious miser was called on by the chairman of the community charity. “Sir,” said the fund-raiser, “our records show that despite your wealth, you’ve never once given to our drive.” “Do your records show that I have an elderly mother who was left penniless when my father died? fumed the tightwad. “Do your records show that I have a disabled brother who is unable to work? Do your records show I have a widowed sister with small children who can barely make ends meet?” “No, sir,” replied the embarrassed volunteer. “Our records don’t show those things.” “Well, said the tightwad, I don’t give to any of them, so why should I give anything to you?” (Landon Parvin in Leaders, Readers Digest, May 1996, pp. 67-68)