Romans 15:22-29

The Prospect of Coming to Rome.

Romans 15:22. This long task repeatedly detained the writer; but now that he has evangelised the Eastern Provinces, he may realise the yearning toward Rome he had cherished for a good many yearsas, he adds, I may be taking my way to Spain. Being a pioneer missionary, Paul cannot make Rome, where Christ has long been named, his objective: I hope to visit you as I travel through, and by you to be sent forward, etc. Calling by the way, he will not see all he desires of his Roman friends; the taste of their company will help him forward (cf. Romans 1:11). Events turned out far otherwise (see Acts 25-28, Ephesians 6:20; Colossians 4:11, Php_1:15 ff.). [Whether he ever saw Spain is uncertain (p. 772). A. J. G.].

Romans 15:25. A second But now introduces the voyage Paul is on the point of making. The poverty of the saints in Jerusalem has touched the Christians of Macedonia and Achaia (cf. 1 Corinthians 16:1; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Acts 24:17), who have made their contribution in goodwill, owing communion in the things of the flesh (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:11; Galatians 6:6) to Israel, in whose spiritual things they have participated (Romans 15:10; cf. Romans 11:17 f., John 4:22, etc.). This help is a sacred-ministry (liturgy: same word in Romans 15:16; Romans 13:6; also in Php_2:25; Php_2:30), and a welcome fruit of Gentile faith (cf. Php_4:17 f.).Accomplish (or consummate; cf. 2 Corinthians 7:1; Hebrews 9:6, etc.) and seal (Romans 4:11; 2 Corinthians 1:21 f.) are terms implying a religious dedication. This done, Paul will set off (Romans 15:28 b: go on, RV, is inexact), leaving his old beat, by way of Rome, for Spain.

Romans 15:29. But I know that Christ's full benediction will attend my coming.Of the gospel (AV) is an ancient gloss.