Romans 15 & 16

Chapter 15

Directions for dealing with “the weak”

Romans 15:1-7 ESV (1) We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings

of the weak, and not to please ourselves. (2) Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. (3) For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, "The

reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me." (4) For whatever was written in former days was written for our

instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

Driving home one of the key points of Chapter 14

Verse 1: Bear one another’s burdens

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Driving home one of the key points of Chapter 14

Verse 1: Defining Strong

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Driving home one of the key points of Chapter 14

• Paul starts with “We” so Paul includes himself in this group, though later describing himself (through the eyes of others) as one whose “bodily presence is weak” Cf. 2 Cor 10:10 “.. but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account.”

Verse 1: Defining Strong

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Driving home one of the key points of Chapter 14

• Paul starts with “We” so Paul includes himself in this group, though later describing himself (through the eyes of others) as one whose “bodily presence is weak” Cf. 2 Cor 10:10 “.. but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account.”

• So we can infer he does not mean physical strength

Verse 1: Defining Strong

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Driving home one of the key points of Chapter 1

• Paul starts with “We” so Paul includes himself in this group, though later describing himself (through the eyes of others) as one whose “bodily presence is weak” Cf. 2 Cor 10:10 “.. but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account.”

• So we can infer he does not mean physical strength• So what DOES he mean by strong? People who can write great

letters?

Verse 1: Defining Strong

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Driving home one of the key points of Chapter 1

• Paul starts with “We” so Paul includes himself in this group, though later describing himself (through the eyes of others) as one whose “bodily presence is weak” Cf. 2 Cor 10:10 “.. but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account.”

• So we can infer he does not mean physical strength• So what DOES he mean by strong? People who can write great

letters?• We the strong (hemeis hoi dunatoi).• He means the Morally Strong

• Cf .2Cor 12:10 “.. For when I am weak, then I am strong..”

Verse 1: Defining Strong

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Driving home one of the key points of Chapter 1

• Paul starts with “We” so Paul includes himself in this group, though later describing himself (through the eyes of others) as one whose “bodily presence is weak” Cf. 2 Cor 10:10 “.. but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account.”

• So we can infer he does not mean physical strength• So what DOES he mean by strong? People who can write great

letters?• We the strong (hemeis hoi dunatoi).• He means the Morally Strong

• Cf. 2Cor 12:10 “.. For when I am weak, then I am strong..”• And the Strong in Faith

• Cf. Rom 4:20 “No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God,”

Verse 1: Defining Strong

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Driving home one of the key points of Chapter 1

• Paul starts with “We” so Paul includes himself in this group, though later describing himself (through the eyes of others) as one whose “bodily presence is weak” Cf. 2 Cor 10:10 “.. but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account.”

• So we can infer he does not mean physical strength• So what DOES he mean by strong? People who can write great

letters?• We the strong (hemeis hoi dunatoi).• He means the Morally Strong

• Cf. 2Cor 12:10 “.. For when I am weak, then I am strong..”• And the Strong in Faith

• Cf. Rom 4:20 “No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God,”

• And NOT the mighty • Cf. 1Cor 1:25-27 “But God chose what is foolish in the world to

shame the wise;..”

Verse 1: Defining Obligation

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.•Paul chose a word that (“Ought” in the KJV)

has a mild form, but literally means; ought, must, and should. It is an obligation like a debt.

Verse 1: Defining Failings

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• Failings (infirmities in the KJV) literally from the scruples “of the not

strong” (ton adunaton)

Verse 1: Defining Failings

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• Failings (infirmities in the KJV) literally from the scruples “of the not

strong” (ton adunaton)• Same phrase used in Acts 14:8

• “Now at Lystra there was a man sitting who could not use his feet. He was crippled from birth and had never walked.” (ESV)

Verse 1: Defining Failings

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• Failings (infirmities in the KJV) literally from the scruples “of the not

strong” (ton adunaton)• Same phrase used in Acts 14:8

• “Now at Lystra there was a man sitting who could not use his feet. He was crippled from birth and had never walked.” (ESV)

• The “actions” of the weak

Verse 1: Defining Failings

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• Failings (infirmities in the KJV) literally from the scruples “of the not

strong” (ton adunaton)• Same phrase used in Acts 14:8

• “Now at Lystra there was a man sitting who could not use his feet. He was crippled from birth and had never walked.” (ESV)

• The “actions” of the weak – in faith – who have never walked in faith

Verse 1: Defining Failings

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• Failings (infirmities in the KJV) literally from the scruples “of the not

strong” (ton adunaton)• Same phrase used in Acts 14:8

• “Now at Lystra there was a man sitting who could not use his feet. He was crippled from birth and had never walked.” (ESV)

• The “actions” of the weak – in faith – who have never walked in faith• Stuck in the same place – Wow! God will save and then keep

someone who can’t get out of a spiritual wet paper bag? – it’s his call – he knows their heart

Verse 1: Defining “Bear”

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• We should BEAR with the failings of the spiritually weak?

Verse 1: Defining “Bear”

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• We should BEAR with the failings of the spiritually weak?• What about complainers?

Verse 1: Defining “Bear”

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• We should BEAR with the failings of the spiritually weak?• What about complainers?• What did Moses do?

Verse 1: Defining “Bear”

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• We should BEAR with the failings of the spiritually weak?• What about complainers?• What did Moses do?• What did Jesus do?

Verse 1: Defining “Bear”

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• We should BEAR with the failings of the spiritually weak?• What about complainers?• What did Moses do?• What did Jesus do?• What else did Paul say?

Verse 1: Defining “Bear”

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.• We should BEAR with the failings of the spiritually weak?• What about complainers?• What did Moses do?• What did Jesus do?• What else did Paul say?

• Cf. Gal 6:2 “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. “• (in full context )

Verse 1: ..not to please ourselves

Romans 15:1 ESV (1) We who are strong have an

obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.Cf. 1 Corinthians 10:32-33 ESV

(32) Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God,(33) just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.

Verses 1: Differentiation

Did Paul mean to accept quietly, peacefully, or otherwise the brother or sister who would not work?

Verses 1: Differentiation

Did Paul mean to accept quietly, peacefully, or otherwise the brother or sister who would not work?

1 Thessalonians 5:14 ESV (14) And we urge you, brothers,

admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.

Verse 2: Please our neighbor?

Romans 15:2 ESV (2) Let each of us please his

neighbor for his good, to build him up.• Suck up to our neighbors?

•Make sinners feel happy?• Be a people pleaser?

Verse 2: Please our neighbor?

Romans 15:2 ESV (2) Let each of us please his

neighbor for his good, to build him up.• Suck up to our neighbors?

•Make sinners feel happy?• Be a people pleaser?

1 Corinthians 10:32-33 ESV(32) Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God,(33) just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.

Verse 3: Our Perfect Example

Romans 15:3 ESV (3) For Christ did not please himself,

but as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me."• Christ was perfect and never sinned

Verse 3: Our Perfect Example

Romans 15:3 ESV (3) For Christ did not please himself,

but as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me."• Christ was perfect and never sinned

• Was it in his nature to take on our sin?

Verse 3: Our Perfect Example

Romans 15:3 ESV (3) For Christ did not please himself,

but as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me."• Christ was perfect and never sinned

• Was it in his nature to take on our sin?• Reproach = Insult (in the NIV), a fair modernization, but

reproach can also mean rejection, disdain, being outcast, etc.

Verse 3: Our Perfect Example

Romans 15:3 ESV (3) For Christ did not please himself,

but as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me."• Christ was perfect and never sinned

• Was it in his nature to take on our sin?• Reproach = Insult (in the NIV), a fair modernization, but

reproach can also mean rejection, disdain, being outcast, etc.• Christ took upon himself the anger that man had towards God

AND the anger that God had towards man’s sin

Verse 3: Our Perfect Example

Romans 15:3 ESV (3) For Christ did not please himself,

but as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me."• Christ was perfect and never sinned

• Was it in his nature to take on our sin?• Reproach = Insult (in the NIV), a fair modernization, but

reproach can also mean rejection, disdain, being outcast, etc.• Christ took upon himself the anger that man had towards God

AND the anger that God had towards man’s sin• And calls us to take a small portion of inconvenience to help

save the weak

Verse 3: Our Perfect Example

Romans 15:3 ESV (3) For Christ did not please himself,

but as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me."• Christ was perfect and never sinned

• Was it in his nature to take on our sin?• Reproach = Insult (in the NIV), a fair modernization, but

reproach can also mean rejection, disdain, being outcast, etc.• Christ took upon himself the anger that man had towards God

AND the anger that God had towards man’s sin• And calls us to take a small portion of inconvenience to help

save the weak• … as we are in his eyes – why we needed a savior

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 4: The scriptures will encourage us to fulfill our call with hope

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 5: And God will empower us as we endure, and teach us how to live in harmony

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 5: And God will empower us as we endure, and teach us how to live in harmony• But as we will see in Chapter 16, this is NOT a call for unity at

all costs, this is a call for unity with weaker brothers and sisters, not for unity with false doctrines, dividers, etc.

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 6: One Voice (“..and all of these can be summed up into this, love your neighbor as yourself”)

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 7: “.. as Christ has welcomed you..”

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 7: “.. as Christ has welcomed you..”• Pretty easy to do right?

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 7: “.. as Christ has welcomed you..”• Pretty easy to do right?

• We deserved death

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 7: “.. as Christ has welcomed you..”• Pretty easy to do right?

• We deserved death• He took the punishment for us

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 7: “.. as Christ has welcomed you..”• Pretty easy to do right?

• We deserved death• He took the punishment for us• And loved us!

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 7: “.. as Christ has welcomed you..”• Pretty easy to do right?

• We deserved death• He took the punishment for us• And loved us – and made a way for our salvation!

Verses 4-7: Unity!

Romans 15:4-7 ESV (4) For whatever was written in former days was

written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

(5) May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

(6) that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(7) Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

• 7: “.. as Christ has welcomed you..”• Pretty easy to do right?

• We deserved death• He took the punishment for us• And loved us – and made a way for our salvation, even

when we did not accept him!

Verses 8-13: Shared Promise

Romans 15:8-13 ESV (8) For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the

circumcised to show God's truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs,

(9) and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, "Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name."

(10) And again it is said, "Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people." (11) And again, "Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all

the peoples extol him." (12) And again Isaiah says, "The root of Jesse will come, even

he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope."

(13) May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Verses 8-13: Shared Promise

Romans 15:8-13 ESV (8) For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the

circumcised to show God's truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs,

(9) and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, "Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name."

(10) And again it is said, "Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people." (11) And again, "Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all

the peoples extol him." (12) And again Isaiah says, "The root of Jesse will come, even

he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope."

(13) May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

• Paul demonstrates through the promises of scripture, to this “mixed” church, that Christ fulfilled the promises made to the Jews AND to the Gentiles• This is another call to unity!

Verses 14-21: Paul’s Ministry

Romans 15:14-21 ESV (14) I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are

full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. (15) But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of

reminder, because of the grace given me by God (16) to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of

the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

(17) In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. (18) For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has

accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience--by word and deed,

(19) by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God--so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ;

(20) and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation,

(21) but as it is written, "Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand."

Verses 14-21: Paul’s Ministry

Romans 15:14-21 ESV (14) I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you

yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another.

(15) But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of reminder, because of the grace given me by God

(16) to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

(17) In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. (18) For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has

accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience--by word and deed,

(19) by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God--so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ;

(20) and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation,

(21) but as it is written, "Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand."

• 14-16: A reminder that this is delivered in love

Verses 14-21: Paul’s Ministry

Romans 15:14-21 ESV (14) I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are

full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. (15) But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of

reminder, because of the grace given me by God (16) to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of

the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

(17) In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. (18) For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has

accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience--by word and deed,

(19) by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God--so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ;

(20) and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation,

(21) but as it is written, "Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand."

• 17-21: Credentialing through signs and wonders• Cf. Acts 14:8-11

Verses 14-21: Paul’s Ministry

Romans 15:14-21 ESV (14) I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are

full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. (15) But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of

reminder, because of the grace given me by God (16) to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of

the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

(17) In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. (18) For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has

accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience--by word and deed,

(19) by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God--so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ;

(20) and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation,

(21) but as it is written, "Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand."

• 17-21: Credentialing through signs and wondersCf. Acts 14:8-11 ESV(8) Now at Lystra there was a man sitting who could not use his feet. He was crippled from birth and had never walked.(9) He listened to Paul speaking. And Paul, looking intently at him and seeing that he had faith to be made well,(10) said in a loud voice, "Stand upright on your feet." And he sprang up and began walking.(11) And when the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in Lycaonian, "The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!"

Verses 14-21: Paul’s Ministry

Romans 15:14-21 ESV (14) I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are

full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. (15) But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of

reminder, because of the grace given me by God (16) to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of

the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

(17) In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. (18) For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has

accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience--by word and deed,

(19) by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God--so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ;

(20) and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation,

(21) but as it is written, "Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand."

• 17-21: Credentialing through signs and wonders• Cf. Acts 14:8-11

• Illycrum is North/Northwest of Macedonia (Europe)

Verses 14-21: Paul’s Ministry

Romans 15:14-21 ESV (14) I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are

full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. (15) But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of

reminder, because of the grace given me by God (16) to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of

the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

(17) In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. (18) For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has

accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience--by word and deed,

(19) by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God--so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ;

(20) and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation,

(21) but as it is written, "Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand."

• 17-21: Credentialing through signs and wonders• Cf. Acts 14:8-11

• Illycrum is North/Northwest of Macedonia (Europe)•Ministry defined as to the Gentiles. And so… the church of Rome, while mixed (Jews and Greeks) is under his apostolic care

Verses 22-29: Purposed Journeys

Romans 15:22-29 ESV (22) This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming

to you. (23) But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions,

and since I have longed for many years to come to you, (24) I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on

my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. (25) At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the

saints. (26) For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some

contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. (27) For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For

if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.

(28) When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you.

(29) I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.

Verses 22-29: Purposed Journeys

Romans 15:22-29 ESV (22) This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming

to you. (23) But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions,

and since I have longed for many years to come to you, (24) I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on

my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. (25) At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the

saints. (26) For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some

contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. (27) For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For

if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.

(28) When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you.

(29) I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.

• Returns to apologizing for the delay in coming to them

Verses 22-29: Purposed Journeys

Romans 15:22-29 ESV (22) This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming

to you. (23) But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions,

and since I have longed for many years to come to you, (24) I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on

my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. (25) At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the

saints. (26) For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some

contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. (27) For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For

if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.

(28) When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you.

(29) I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.

• But coming soon!

Verses 22-29: Purposed Journeys

Romans 15:22-29 ESV (22) This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming

to you. (23) But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions,

and since I have longed for many years to come to you, (24) I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on

my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. (25) At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the

saints. (26) For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some

contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. (27) For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For

if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.

(28) When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you.

(29) I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.

• But I need your help, and would enjoy your company

Verses 22-29: Purposed Journeys

Romans 15:22-29 ESV (22) This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming

to you. (23) But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions,

and since I have longed for many years to come to you, (24) I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on

my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. (25) At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the

saints. (26) For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some

contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. (27) For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For

if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.

(28) When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you.

(29) I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.

• But I need your help, and would enjoy your companyGalatians 6:6 ESV(6) One who is taught the word must share all good things with the one who teaches.

Verses 22-29: Purposed Journeys

Romans 15:22-29 ESV (22) This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming

to you. (23) But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions,

and since I have longed for many years to come to you, (24) I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on

my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. (25) At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the

saints. (26) For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some

contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. (27) For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For

if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.

(28) When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you.

(29) I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.

• But there was some kingdom business to be done first…

Verses 22-29: Purposed Journeys

Romans 15:22-29 ESV (22) This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming

to you. (23) But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions,

and since I have longed for many years to come to you, (24) I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on

my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. (25) At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the

saints. (26) For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some

contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. (27) For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For

if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.

(28) When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you.

(29) I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.

• 27: “..owe it to them..”•Applies today•We share in the fatness of the trunk of the olive tree• Is it wise for the grafted branches to think they are not connected to the root?

Verses 30-33: Prayer Requests

Romans 15:30-33 ESV (30) I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord

Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,

(31) that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints,

(32) so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company.

(33) May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

Verses 30-33: Prayer Requests

Romans 15:30-33 ESV (30) I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord

Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,

(31) that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints,

(32) so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company.

(33) May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

• Begs for prayers• Based on Christ & Holy Spirit

Verses 30-33: Prayer Requests

Romans 15:30-33 ESV (30) I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord

Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,

(31) that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints,

(32) so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company.

(33) May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

• Begs for prayers• Based on Christ & Holy Spirit• Strive: agonize

Verses 30-33: Prayer Requests

Romans 15:30-33 ESV (30) I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord

Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,

(31) that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints,

(32) so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company.

(33) May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

• Begs for prayers• Based on Christ & Holy Spirit• Strive: agonize•Deliverance, Acts 21-26

Verses 30-33: Prayer Requests

Romans 15:30-33 ESV (30) I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord

Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,

(31) that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints,

(32) so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company.

(33) May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

• Begs for prayers• Based on Christ & Holy Spirit• Strive: agonize•Deliverance, Acts 21-26• Acceptance by Jews

Verses 30-33: Prayer Requests

Romans 15:30-33 ESV (30) I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord

Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,

(31) that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints,

(32) so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company.

(33) May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

• Begs for prayers• Based on Christ & Holy Spirit• Strive: agonize•Deliverance, Acts 21-26• Acceptance by Jews• Visit Rome, Acts 28

Chapter 16

Verses 1-15: Recommendations and Commendations

Paul recommends Phoebe for a greeting and support proper to a patron of many churches and the apostle himself

And greets many by name There are many characters worthy of

research in this list

Verses 17-20: Warning!

Romans 16:17-20 ESV (17) I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those

who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.

(18) For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

(19) For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil.

(20) The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Verses 17-20: Warning!

Romans 16:17-20 ESV (17) I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those

who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.

(18) For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

(19) For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil.

(20) The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

• Paul warns against “dividers” or divisive people and/or those how will create obstacles to the faith other than those they have been taught (by him or the other apostles – inferred)

Verses 17-20: Warning!

Romans 16:17-20 ESV (17) I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those

who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.

(18) For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

(19) For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil.

(20) The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

• Paul warns against “dividers” or divisive people and/or those how will create obstacles to the faith other than those they have been taught (by him or the other apostles – inferred)• And he warned to AVOID them!

Verses 17-20: Warning!

Romans 16:17-20 ESV (17) I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those

who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.

(18) For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

(19) For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil.

(20) The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

• Paul warns against “dividers” or divisive people and/or those how will create obstacles to the faith other than those they have been taught (by him or the other apostles – inferred)• And he warned to AVOID them!• And paints them as “wolves in sheep’s clothing” “..do not serve our Lord Christ,..”

Verses 17-20: Warning!

Romans 16:17-20 ESV (17) I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those

who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.

(18) For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

(19) For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil.

(20) The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

•Paul encourages and cautions the church of Rome to (continue to) avoid the knowledge of evil (restraint of liberty)•And to be wise about what is good

Verses 17-20: Warning!

Romans 16:17-20 ESV (17) I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those

who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.

(18) For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

(19) For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil.

(20) The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

•Paul encourages and cautions the church of Rome to (continue to) avoid the knowledge of evil (restraint of liberty)•And to be wise about what is good•And encourages them that Satan will soon be crushed under their feet (by God)

Verses 17-20: Warning!

Romans 16:17-20 ESV (17) I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those

who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.

(18) For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

(19) For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil.

(20) The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

•Paul encourages and cautions the church of Rome to (continue to) avoid the knowledge of evil (restraint of liberty)•And to be wise about what is good•And encourages them that Satan will soon be crushed under their feet (by God)•Rome fell•Christianity grew - exploded

Verses 20-24: Salutations Romans 16:20-24 ESV (20) The God of peace will soon crush Satan under

your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

(21) Timothy, my fellow worker, greets you; so do Lucius and Jason and Sosipater, my kinsmen.

(22) I Tertius, who wrote this letter, greet you in the Lord.

(23) Gaius, who is host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus, greet you.

(24) [The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.]

Verses 25-27:

Romans 16:25-27 ESV (25) Now to him who is able to strengthen you

according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages

(26) but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith--

(27) to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.

Verses 25-27:

Romans 16:25-27 ESV (25) Now to him who is able to strengthen you

according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages

(26) but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith--

(27) to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.

Paul concludes by bringing Glory to

God!

AgendaNext (X?) Weeks

• Now that we have dissected each chapter…• Read Romans as the letter it truly is• Expect Revelation from the Holy Spirit!• Expect the ability to recall the location of key scriptures

from memory!• Bring your highlighter if you are into that sort of thing

AgendaNext (X?) Weeks

• Open Issues:• Discuss desired pace for wrap up• Once we are done…

• Summer off

• Questions:• Would anyone like to add anything to this?• Has anyone had any “recall experiences” yet?