1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.
2 Let every one of us please [his] neighbour for [his] good to edification.
3 For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.
4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
5 Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:
6 That ye may with one mind [and] one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.
8 Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises [made] unto the fathers:
9 And that the Gentiles might glorify God for [his] mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name.
10 And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people.
11 And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people.
12 And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust.
13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
14 And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.
15 Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God,
16 That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.
17 I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ in those things which pertain to God.
18 For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed,
19 Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.
20 Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man’s foundation:
21 But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand.
22 For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you.
23 But now having no more place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come unto you;
24 Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your [company].
25 But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.
26 For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.
27 It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.
28 When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain.
29 And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.
30 Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in [your] prayers to God for me;
31 That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which [I have] for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints;
32 That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.
33 Now the God of peace [be] with you all. Amen.
Overview of Romans Chapter 15
Romans Chapter 15 serves as a culmination of the Apostle Paul’s teachings on Christian living, emphasizing unity, service, and the importance of hope in Christ. This chapter addresses the responsibilities of believers towards one another and the broader mission of the church. It also highlights Paul’s own ministry and aspirations for the future.
Key Themes
- Mutual Edification: The chapter begins with an exhortation for the strong in faith to bear the weaknesses of the weak, promoting a community of support and encouragement.
- Christ as the Example: Paul points to Christ as the ultimate model for selflessness and service, reinforcing the idea that believers should follow His example.
- Unity Among Believers: The chapter stresses the importance of unity within the body of Christ, urging believers to accept one another as Christ accepted them.
- Hope and Encouragement: Paul emphasizes the role of Scripture in providing hope and encouragement, reminding believers of the promises of God.
- Mission to the Gentiles: Paul discusses his mission to the Gentiles, highlighting the inclusion of all people in the plan of salvation.
Detailed Analysis
1. Mutual Edification (Verses 1-3)
Paul begins by addressing the strong believers, encouraging them to support those who are weaker in faith. This mutual edification is crucial for the growth of the church and the demonstration of Christ’s love.
- Believers are called to prioritize the needs of others over their own.
- This principle is rooted in the example of Christ, who did not seek to please Himself.
2. Christ as the Example (Verses 3-6)
In these verses, Paul reinforces that Christ’s life exemplifies the selfless love and service that believers are called to emulate. This section serves to remind the church of their shared mission and purpose.
- Paul quotes Scripture to illustrate how Christ fulfilled the promises made to the patriarchs.
- The unity of believers is emphasized as they glorify God together.
3. Unity Among Believers (Verses 7-12)
Paul urges the church to accept one another, regardless of their backgrounds, as Christ accepted them. This acceptance is vital for the church’s witness to the world.
- Acceptance leads to harmony and glorification of God.
- Paul cites Old Testament prophecies to affirm that the Gentiles are included in God’s plan for salvation.
4. Hope and Encouragement (Verses 13)
Paul concludes this section with a prayer for the believers to be filled with joy and peace, encouraging them to abound in hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
- This hope is foundational for the Christian life, providing strength and resilience.
- The role of the Holy Spirit is highlighted as essential for sustaining hope.
5. Paul’s Ministry and Mission (Verses 14-21)
Paul shifts focus to his own ministry, expressing confidence in the believers’ ability to teach and admonish one another. He emphasizes his calling to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles.
- Paul describes his ministry as a priestly duty, offering the Gentiles as an acceptable offering to God.
- He highlights the signs and wonders that have accompanied his ministry, affirming the power of God at work.
6. Future Plans and Requests (Verses 22-29)
In the final verses, Paul outlines his plans to visit Rome and his desire to be refreshed by the believers there. He also requests prayers for his journey to Jerusalem.
- Paul’s plans reflect his commitment to the mission and the importance of community support.
- His request for prayer underscores the need for divine assistance in ministry.
7. Final Exhortations and Greetings (Verses 30-33)
Paul concludes the chapter with a call for prayer and unity, emphasizing the importance of being in harmony with one another as they serve God.
- The chapter ends with a benediction, invoking peace and joy for the believers.
- This closing reinforces the themes of hope and community that permeate the chapter.
Conclusion
Romans Chapter 15 encapsulates the essence of Christian living, focusing on unity, service, and hope. Paul’s teachings serve as a guide for believers to support one another, emulate Christ, and fulfill their mission to spread the Gospel. This chapter not only addresses the immediate concerns of the Roman church but also provides timeless principles applicable to all Christians.
