Romans 15:20-33

Accordingly I set a goal to preach the gospel, not where Christ’s name was already known, so that I would not build on another man’s foundation; but [instead I would act on this goal] as it is written [in Scripture], “THEY WHO HAD NO NEWS OF HIM SHALL SEE, AND THEY WHO HAVE NOT HEARD [of Him] SHALL UNDERSTAND.” [Is 52:15] This [goal—my commitment to this principle] is the reason why I have often been prevented from coming to you [in Rome]. But now, with no further place for work in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to come to you— whenever I go [on my trip] to Spain—I hope to see you as I pass through [Rome], and to be helped on my journey there by you, after I have first enjoyed your company for a little while. But for now, I am going to Jerusalem to serve the saints (Jewish believers). For [Gentile believers in] Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints (Jewish believers) in Jerusalem. They were pleased to do it, and they are indebted to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual things, then they are indebted to serve them also in [tangible] material things. Therefore, when I have finished this [mission] and have safely given to them what has been raised, I will go on by way of you to Spain. I know that when I do come to you, I will come in the abundant blessing of Christ. I urge you, believers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join together with me in your prayers to God in my behalf, [and pray] that I may be rescued from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints (Jewish believers) there; so that by God’s will I may come to you with joy and find rest in your company. May the God of peace be with you all! Amen.