William Burkitt's Expository Notes

Romans 15:25

Here the apostle acquaints them with his present journey to Jerusalem, as also with the occasion of it; namely, to carry the charitable contributions of the Greek churches in Macedonia and Achaia, into Judea, and up to the poor saints at Jerusalem, whose necessities required it, and unto whom they were in. sort indebted for it; the Gentiles having been made partakers of their spiritual things, (receiving the gospel from Judea) they are obliged in gratitude to minister to them in carnal things.

He further assures them, that as soon as he had finished his journey, and performed this charitable office, he would come to them, and that in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of peace.

Note here, 1. The title given to the poor Christians at Jerusalem; they are called saints:. go to Jerusalem to administer to the saints' necessities. Saints they were by baptismal dedication, by visible profession, and many, yea most of them, it is to be hoped, by inward sanctification also.

Note, 2. That poverty and sanctity are not inconsistent: the saints at Jerusalem are poor, but God provided. purveyor for them; he stirs up the apostle, and the hearts of the Macedonians, to administer to the necessities of these poor saints.

Note, 3. How the saints in one church did succour and relieve the poor Christians in another: those in Macedonia and Achaia send relief into Judea, and to the poor saints which were at Jerusalem.

Teaching us, that it is our obliged duty to extend our charity to the churches abroad and beyond the seas, when their wants and necessities require it, and our capacities enable us unto it.

Note, 4. The nature of this charity declared: it was. free and cheerful contribution, performed with much pleasure. It pleased them to make. contribution; it was not extorted or squeezed from, but given with cheerfulness by them; contributions must not be compulsion, but voluntary oblations.

Note, 5. How this charity is called fruit: When. have sealed this fruit; because it was the fruit of their faith, liberality, and love: because as fruit it would redound both to the benefit of the giver and receiver. Charity and alms are fruit redounding to account in the great day of account.

Note, 6. The great integrity and fidelity of the apostle in securing of this charity: When. have sealed, or secured, unto them this fruit. the church's charity is. sealed treasure, not to be diminished and embezzled, but applied to the uses to which it is devoted.

Note lastly, The assurance which he gives them, that when he comes among them, he shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of peace unto them; that is, with. full impartment of spiritual gifts and gospel-blessings, much knowledge, grace, and comfort.

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William Burkitt's Expository Notes

Romans 15:25

Old Testament

New Testament