ROMANS Study Guide

a. Paul had been delayed: Paul had been so preoccupied in

accomplishing the completion of his ministry in Asia Minor it had

prevented him from coming sooner. (vs.22)

b. Paul’s amazing declaration of completion (vs.23): He h as no

more place (i.e. cities, regions) where he has not already

preached the gospel with signs and wonders. He now turns over

the more detailed preaching and church planting (of these

regions he has been working in) to others. Now, Paul is looking

for new virgin territories to go take the Gospel to. In making

this transition to a new region and field of work, Paul takes this

as a time to finally come and see the Roman Church after so

many years of wanting to.

c. Paul has focused on Spain to be this first endeavor in launching

into a new field of apostolic work. Since Roman will be in the

direction he will be going… Paul wants to stop at Rome and

hopefully be “refreshed” (filled up) with the churches fellowship

and encouragement. (vs.24)

1) To be “set - forward”: Paul hopes the Romans will help him in

going out in his mission to Spain.

2) Paul ever the strategist is recognizing he will need a “home

base” - a church to work out from in his new mission effort.

Rom 15:25 But now I am going to Jerusalem to minister to the saints. Rom 15:26 For it has pleased those of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints in Jerusalem. Rom 15:27 Truly it has pleased them, and they are their debtors. For if the nations have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister to them in fleshly things. Rom 15:28 Therefore when I have completed this, and have sealed this fruit to them, I will come by you into Spain.