Romans 1:11

For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;

For {G1063} I long {G1971} to see {G1492} you {G5209}, that {G2443} I may impart {G3330} unto you {G5213} some {G5100} spiritual {G4152} gift {G5486}, to the end {G1519} ye {G5209} may be established {G4741};

For I long to see you, so that I might share with you some spiritual gift that can make you stronger —

For I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you,

For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;

Commentary

Romans 1:11 (KJV) is a verse where the Apostle Paul expresses his earnest desire to visit the believers in Rome and explains his primary motivation for doing so.

Context

This verse is found early in Paul's letter to the church in Rome. Having not yet visited this significant Christian community, Paul articulates his apostolic calling and his heart's longing to connect with them. It follows his declaration of being a debtor to both Greeks and barbarians, wise and unwise (Romans 1:14), and his readiness to preach the gospel in Rome (Romans 1:15). His desire to see them is rooted in a spiritual purpose.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Longing and Love: Paul's opening words reveal a genuine affection and a strong desire for personal fellowship with the Roman believers, driven by his pastoral heart.
  • Imparting Spiritual Gifts: Paul's goal was to share spiritual blessings and resources with them. This likely refers to sharing the spiritual insights, teaching, and encouragement God had given him, utilizing his own spiritual gifts for their benefit. It's less about bestowing new gifts and more about ministering through the gifts he possessed.
  • Being Established: The ultimate purpose was that they might be strengthened and made firm in their faith. In a city like Rome, believers needed to be established, rooted, and built up so they could stand strong against pressures and false teachings.

Linguistic Insights

The word translated "impart" is the Greek metadō (μεταδῶ), which means to share or give a portion of something one possesses. It implies a generous sharing of spiritual resources. "Established" comes from stērichthēnai (στηριχθῆναι), a passive infinitive meaning to be strengthened, made firm, or confirmed. It speaks to the process of being grounded and stable in belief and practice.

Reflection and Application

Paul's desire highlights the vital role of personal connection and mutual ministry within the Christian community. We are called to share the spiritual gifts and insights God has given us to build up and strengthen other believers. This verse encourages us to seek fellowship not just for social reasons, but with the intention of both giving and receiving spiritual encouragement and support, so that we all may be more firmly established in our faith and walk with Christ.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Peter 1:12 (8 votes)

    ¶ Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know [them], and be established in the present truth.

  • Romans 16:25 (8 votes)

    ¶ Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,

  • Romans 15:29 (7 votes)

    And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (7 votes)

    But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep [you] from evil.

  • 2 Peter 3:17 (5 votes)

    Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know [these things] before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.

  • 2 Peter 3:18 (5 votes)

    But grow in grace, and [in] the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him [be] glory both now and for ever. Amen.

  • 1 Peter 5:12 (4 votes)

    By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand.