Romans 1:13

KJV

Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now {G1161} I would {G2309} not {G3756} have {G50} you {G5209} ignorant {G50}, brethren {G80}, that {G3754} oftentimes {G4178} I purposed {G4388} to come {G2064} unto {G4314} you {G5209},(but {G2532} was let {G2967} hitherto {G891}{G1204},) that {G2443} I might have {G2192} some {G5100} fruit {G2590} among {G1722} you {G5213} also {G2532}, even as {G2531}{G2532} among {G1722} other {G3062} Gentiles {G1484}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Brothers, I want you to know that although I have been prevented from visiting you until now, I have often planned to do so, in order that I might have some fruit among you, just as I have among the other Gentiles.

Berean Standard Bible

I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, how often I planned to come to you (but have been prevented from visiting until now), in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles.

American Standard Version

And I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you (and was hindered hitherto), that I might have some fruit in you also, even as in the rest of the Gentiles.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Romans 1:13, the Apostle Paul articulates his long-standing, yet previously hindered, intention to visit the believers in Rome. He expresses a profound pastoral desire to impart spiritual blessing and witness genuine spiritual fruit among them, mirroring the transformative impact of the Gospel he had experienced in his ministry among other Gentile communities. This verse underscores Paul's apostolic commitment to the spread of the Gospel and the spiritual edification of all believers, regardless of their background.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 1:13 is nestled within the opening salutation and introduction of Paul's letter to the church in Rome, specifically within the section where he expresses his deep longing to visit them (Romans 1:8-15). Having introduced himself as a "servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle" ([Romans 1:1](/romans/1-1 "Romans 1:1 - Paul's Apostolic Calling")), and having declared his eagerness to "impart unto you some spiritual gift" ([Romans 1:11](/romans/1-11 "Romans 1:11 - Paul's Desire to Impart Spiritual Gifts")), Paul here provides a direct explanation for his delayed arrival. This explanation serves to build rapport and transparency with a church he has not yet met, setting the stage for the profound theological treatise that follows concerning the righteousness of God revealed in the Gospel ([Romans 1:16-17](/romans/1-16-17 "Romans 1:16-17 - The Power of the Gospel")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Rome was the heart of the Roman Empire, a melting pot of cultures, religions, and philosophical schools. The church in Rome, though not founded by Paul, was significant due to its strategic location and diverse composition, likely comprising both Jewish and Gentile converts to Christianity. Paul, as the "apostle to the Gentiles" ([Romans 11:13](/romans/11-13 "Romans 11:13 - Paul, Apostle to the Gentiles")), felt a particular burden to minister in such a pivotal center. His repeated attempts to visit were likely thwarted by a combination of providential hindrances, demanding missionary journeys elsewhere, or perhaps even opposition. The cultural expectation would have been for an apostle of his stature to visit the capital, making his explanation for the delay both courteous and necessary to maintain his credibility and the integrity of his mission.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Romans and Paul's broader theology. It highlights **Paul's unwavering missionary zeal** and his sense of obligation to preach the Gospel to all, including those in Rome ([Romans 1:14](/romans/1-14 "Romans 1:14 - Paul's Debt to All")). The concept of "fruit" introduces the theme of **spiritual transformation and productivity**, a recurring motif in Paul's writings, signifying genuine conversion, righteous living, and the expansion of God's kingdom. Furthermore, the phrase "among other Gentiles" reinforces Paul's specific **apostolic calling to the Gentile world**, emphasizing the universal scope of the Gospel and God's redemptive plan for all nations, a truth foundational to the entire book of [Romans](/romans/1 "The Book of Romans").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **ignorant (Greek, _agnoéō'_):** From G50, meaning "not to know (through lack of information or intelligence); by implication, to ignore (through disinclination)." Paul uses this phrase, "I would not have you ignorant," as a common rhetorical device (e.g., [1 Corinthians 10:1](/1_corinthians/10-1 "1 Corinthians 10:1 - Paul's Warning Against Idolatry")) to ensure the recipients understand his true intentions and the reasons behind his actions, preventing misunderstanding or misinterpretation of his prolonged absence.
* **let (Greek, _kōlýō'_):** From G2967, meaning "to estop, i.e. prevent (by word or act):--forbid, hinder, keep from, let, not suffer, withstand." In KJV English, "let" here means "hindered" or "prevented," not "allowed." This word highlights the external obstacles Paul faced that thwarted his previous attempts to reach Rome, demonstrating that even divine purposes can encounter temporal impediments without negating the ultimate will of God.
* **fruit (Greek, _karpós'_):** From G2590, meaning "fruit (as plucked), literally or figuratively." In this context, "fruit" is used metaphorically to represent the spiritual results of Paul's ministry—conversions, spiritual growth, righteous living, and the establishment of mature Christian communities. It signifies the tangible evidence of God's work through the Gospel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren":** Paul addresses the Roman believers directly as "brethren," establishing a familial and intimate tone. His opening phrase, "I would not have you ignorant," serves as a polite yet firm way to introduce an important clarification, ensuring they are fully informed about his intentions and past circumstances.
* **"that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,)":** Paul reveals his repeated and consistent intention ("oftentimes I purposed") to visit Rome. The parenthetical clause "but was let hitherto" explains why these purposes had not yet materialized. The word "let" (hindered) indicates that external circumstances or divine providence, rather than a lack of desire on his part, had prevented his journey until that point.
* **"that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles":** This clause states the ultimate purpose of his desired visit. Paul's goal was not merely a social call but to see spiritual "fruit" (i.e., conversions, spiritual growth, and the flourishing of the church) among the Roman believers. The phrase "among you also, even as among other Gentiles" underscores his consistent missionary pattern and his expectation that God would work powerfully in Rome, just as He had in other Gentile regions where Paul had ministered (e.g., [Acts 14:27](/acts/14-27 "Acts 14:27 - God Opening the Door of Faith to Gentiles")).

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several **rhetorical devices** in this verse to communicate his message effectively. The phrase "I would not have you ignorant" is a classic Pauline **idiom** or **formulaic expression** (found also in [1 Corinthians 12:1](/1_corinthians/12-1 "1 Corinthians 12:1 - Spiritual Gifts") and [1 Thessalonians 4:13](/1_thessalonians/4-13 "1 Thessalonians 4:13 - The Resurrection of Believers")), serving as a polite yet direct way to convey crucial information and ensure the audience's understanding. The use of "brethren" (Greek, _adelphós_) is an example of **apostolic appeal** and **familial language**, fostering a sense of community and shared identity with his readers. Furthermore, the concept of "fruit" is a powerful **metaphor** for the spiritual results of ministry and the evidence of genuine faith and transformation, a common biblical image (e.g., [Matthew 7:16](/matthew/7-16 "Matthew 7:16 - You Will Recognize Them by Their Fruits")).

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 1:13 reveals Paul's deep commitment to the Great Commission, demonstrating that true apostolic ministry is driven by a desire for spiritual transformation and the expansion of God's kingdom, not personal gain or recognition. His perseverance despite hindrances highlights the reality that God's plans often unfold through challenges, yet His ultimate purpose for spiritual fruit remains steadfast. This verse also underscores the universal scope of the Gospel, affirming that God's saving power is available to all, Jew and Gentile alike, and that the same spiritual fruit evident elsewhere can and should be expected in every community of believers.

* [John 15:8](/john/15-8 "John 15:8 - Bearing Much Fruit")
* [Philippians 1:22](/philippians/1-22 "Philippians 1:22 - To Live is Christ, To Die is Gain")
* [Colossians 1:6](/colossians/1-6 "Colossians 1:6 - The Gospel Bearing Fruit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's transparency about his hindered plans in Romans 1:13 offers a profound lesson for believers today. It reminds us that even the most fervent desires and divinely appointed missions can face obstacles. Yet, Paul's unwavering purpose to "have some fruit" among the Romans, despite past delays, serves as a powerful example of perseverance in ministry and personal calling. Our focus should always be on the spiritual outcomes—seeing lives transformed by the Gospel, believers maturing in their faith, and communities reflecting Christ's character. When we encounter hindrances, whether in our personal spiritual growth, our efforts to share the Gospel, or our service within the church, we are called to maintain our focus on God's purposes and trust in His timing, knowing that He works all things for His glory and the good of those who love Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "fruit" does God desire to produce in my life and through my efforts for His kingdom?**
* **How do I respond when my good intentions or ministry efforts are "let" or hindered by unforeseen circumstances?**
* **In what ways can I actively pursue opportunities to see spiritual fruit among those in my sphere of influence, just as Paul desired for the Romans?**

### FAQ

**Why was Paul "let hitherto" from coming to Rome?**

Answer: The phrase "was let hitherto" means Paul was "hindered" or "prevented" from coming to Rome until that point. The Bible does not explicitly state the specific nature of these hindrances. They could have been providential (God redirecting his steps for other urgent missionary work, as seen in [Acts 16:6-10](/acts/16-6-10 "Acts 16:6-10 - The Macedonian Call")), or they might have been practical obstacles such as demanding ministry responsibilities, financial constraints, or even opposition from adversaries. Regardless of the exact cause, Paul understood these as external forces that had temporarily thwarted his long-standing desire to visit the Roman church, without diminishing his ultimate purpose.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 1:13, with Paul's desire to bear "fruit" among the Gentiles, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who is the source and embodiment of all spiritual fruit. Jesus Himself declared, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing" ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Jesus, the True Vine")). Paul's longing to see spiritual fruit in Rome is a reflection of Christ's own mission to gather a people for Himself from every nation, tribe, and tongue ([Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - The Multitude from Every Nation")). The "fruit" Paul sought was the outcome of the Gospel, which is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes ([Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Power of the Gospel")). This spiritual fruit, manifested in transformed lives and growing faith, is ultimately the work of the Holy Spirit, whom Christ sent to empower believers ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")). Thus, Paul's apostolic ambition to see fruit among the Gentiles is a direct extension of Christ's redemptive work, bringing all peoples into His glorious kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 19:21

¶ After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome.

Philippians 4:17

Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.

1 Thessalonians 4:13

¶ But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

1 Thessalonians 2:18

Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.

2 Timothy 4:17

Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and [that] all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.

2 Corinthians 1:8

For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life:

Romans 15:22

¶ For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you.