Romans Part 6: RESPONSESample

Paul’s future traveling plans:

Chapter 15:22-29 not only reminds us of one of Paul’s main reasons for writing the Epistle of Romans (to prepare the way for his coming visit to Rome and his prepared mission to Spain); it also reminds us of the beautiful reality of helping others and receiving help. Paul mentions in verse 22 that he had been delayed from coming to Rome because he had been preaching the Good News of Christ from Jerusalem all the way to Illyricum (v 19). He is hoping to go to Spain to evangelize that unreached area and aims to pass through Rome on the way (v 24). But first, he is concerned with the material needs of the church in Jerusalem and will go there to deliver an offering that he had collected from his own, mainly Gentile, missionary churches. This offering was a means by which Gentile Christians could express in a very practical way their love and concern for the less well-off brothers and sisters (vv 26-27). As soon as his work in Jerusalem was completed, Paul would board the first ship to Rome where he and the believers there would enjoy a time of rich blessing before he departed for Spain (vv 28-29).

Althea Gibson said, “No matter what accomplishments you make, somebody helped you.”

Even the Apostle Paul couldn’t do everything on his own. He had deep compassion for the lost, the least, and the lonely, but he couldn’t do all he wanted by himself. He needed financial support to continue to evangelize; he needed the refreshment that comes from spending time with other believers to help him continue the arduous task God had called him to. Also, the Jerusalem believers needed the help of others in their difficult times and those who had heard the gospel, or still needed to hear it, needed someone like Paul who was willing to go into all the world to preach the Good News.

Every person is needed and valuable. Whether it’s preaching the gospel in unreached areas or parenting three little kids and a Golden Retriever puppy, we can all use a little help. Ask God to bring the help you need or show you how you can help someone else and experience the joy of life together!!

-Norm Hudspeth