Romans 1:15

KJV

So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.

KJV (with Strong's)

So {G3779}, as much as {G2596} in me is {G1691}, I am ready {G4289} to preach the gospel {G2097} to you {G5213} that are at {G1722} Rome {G4516} also {G2532}.

Complete Jewish Bible

therefore I am eager to proclaim the Good News also to you who live in Rome.

Berean Standard Bible

That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome.

American Standard Version

So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you also that are in Rome.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul, in Romans 1:15, articulates his profound personal commitment and eager preparedness to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to the Christian community and wider populace residing in Rome, the influential capital of the Roman Empire. This declaration underscores his unwavering apostolic calling and his strategic vision for the global dissemination of the gospel message.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 1:15 serves as a pivotal statement within Paul's extended introduction to his magnum opus, the Epistle to the Romans. Having established his identity as a "servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle" and set apart for the gospel of God in [Romans 1:1](/romans/1-1 "Romans 1:1 - Paul's Apostolic Calling"), Paul proceeds to express his fervent desire to visit the Roman believers. He states his longing to impart some spiritual gift to strengthen them in [Romans 1:11](/romans/1-11 "Romans 1:11 - Paul's Desire to Impart Spiritual Gift") and to reap some harvest among them, just as he had among other Gentiles, in [Romans 1:13](/romans/1-13 "Romans 1:13 - Paul's Desire for Fruit in Rome"). Verse 15, therefore, culminates this introductory section by explicitly declaring his personal readiness to fulfill his God-given mission in this crucial imperial city, thereby building anticipation for the profound theological exposition of the gospel's power that immediately follows in [Romans 1:16-17](/romans/1-16-17 "Romans 1:16-17 - The Power of the Gospel").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Rome, at the time of Paul's writing (likely mid-50s AD), was the undisputed political, economic, and cultural heart of the vast Roman Empire. Its population was incredibly diverse, comprising citizens, freedmen, slaves, and a significant number of foreigners, including a large Jewish community. Christianity had already taken root in Rome, likely through early converts from Pentecost ([Acts 2:10](/acts/2-10 "Acts 2:10 - Romans at Pentecost")) or through the natural movement of people within the empire. The church in Rome was probably a collection of house churches, comprising both Jewish and Gentile believers, grappling with issues of unity and identity, as evident in later chapters of the epistle. Paul's ambition to preach in Rome was not merely about reaching a single city but about establishing a strategic base from which the gospel could further radiate throughout the Western Roman Empire, potentially even reaching Spain, as he later indicates in [Romans 15:24](/romans/15-24 "Romans 15:24 - Paul's Plans for Spain").

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Romans and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights **Apostolic Calling and Obedience**, demonstrating Paul's unwavering commitment to the commission he received from Christ to be an apostle to the Gentiles, a theme introduced in [Romans 1:5](/romans/1-5 "Romans 1:5 - Paul's Apostolic Commission"). Secondly, it emphasizes the **Universality of the Gospel**, as Paul's readiness to preach to "you that are at Rome also" underscores that the good news is for all people, irrespective of their background or location, a truth foundational to the argument that "there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile" in [Romans 10:12](/romans/10-12 "Romans 10:12 - No Distinction Between Jew and Gentile"). Thirdly, it showcases **Missionary Zeal and Strategic Vision**, revealing Paul's passionate desire not only to preach but to do so in the most influential centers, recognizing Rome's pivotal role in the Roman world. Finally, the phrase "as much as in me is" speaks to **Personal Readiness and Divine Empowerment**, indicating that while Paul's commitment is personal, it is ultimately enabled and sustained by God's grace, echoing his sentiment in [1 Corinthians 15:10](/1_corinthians/15-10 "1 Corinthians 15:10 - Paul's Labor by God's Grace").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **ready (Greek, _próthymos'_):** Derived from _pro_ (before, in front of) and _thymos_ (spirit, passion), this word literally means "forward in spirit" or "predisposed." As an adjective, it describes someone who is eager, willing, or prepared. In this context, it conveys Paul's deep internal desire and active preparedness to carry out his mission without hesitation or compulsion, but rather with alacrity and zeal. It suggests a readiness that is not merely passive availability but an active, enthusiastic disposition.
* **to preach the gospel (Greek, _euangelízō'_):** This verb is a compound of _eu_ (good) and _angelos_ (messenger), meaning "to announce good news" or "to evangelize." It specifically refers to the proclamation of the Christian gospel, the glad tidings of salvation through Jesus Christ. Paul's use of this term highlights that his primary purpose in coming to Rome is not social visit or political maneuvering, but the authoritative declaration of God's saving message. This word encapsulates the very core of his apostolic ministry.
* **as much as in me is (Greek, _katá emé'_):** This idiomatic phrase, formed by the preposition _katá_ (down, according to, as far as) and the personal pronoun _emé_ (me), translates to "according to me," "for my part," or "as far as it depends on me." It emphasizes Paul's personal responsibility, willingness, and the extent of his own effort and commitment. It signifies that from his side, there is no impediment or lack of eagerness; he is fully committed to the task, irrespective of external circumstances or potential obstacles.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So, as much as in me is":** This opening clause sets the tone, indicating a logical consequence or summation ("So") of Paul's preceding expressions of desire to visit Rome. The phrase "as much as in me is" functions as a strong declaration of Paul's personal readiness and commitment. It highlights that his eagerness to preach is an internal, volitional disposition, dependent on his own will and spirit, rather than external pressure or obligation. It emphasizes his personal initiative and lack of reservation.
* **"I am ready":** This direct and emphatic statement reinforces the preceding phrase. Paul is not merely willing, but actively "ready" (Greek: _próthymos_), signifying a state of preparedness and eagerness. This readiness is a key aspect of his apostolic character, demonstrating his availability and zeal for God's mission. It implies a readiness to face any challenges or difficulties that might arise in the course of his ministry in Rome.
* **"to preach the gospel":** This clause specifies the content and purpose of Paul's readiness. His ultimate goal is the proclamation of "the gospel," the good news of salvation through Christ. This is the core of his apostolic calling and the central message of his letter. It underscores that his visit to Rome is fundamentally a missionary endeavor, focused on sharing the transformative truth of God's grace.
* **"to you that are at Rome also":** This final phrase identifies the specific recipients of Paul's intended ministry. "You that are at Rome" refers to the believers already present in the capital city, as well as the broader population. The inclusion of "also" suggests that Rome is another significant location, alongside other Gentile cities where Paul has already ministered, reinforcing the universal scope of his commission and the gospel's reach to all nations.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's declaration in Romans 1:15 effectively employs several literary devices. The use of **Personal Pronouns** ("in me," "I," "to you") highlights the deeply personal nature of Paul's calling and his relationship with the Roman believers, fostering a sense of intimacy and directness despite his physical absence. His statement is a powerful example of **Apostolic Authority and Intent**, where his readiness is not merely a wish but a firm declaration of purpose from one commissioned by Christ. There is an element of **Anticipation** built into the verse, as Paul's strong declaration of readiness creates a sense of expectation for the weighty theological exposition of the gospel that immediately follows in the subsequent verses. Furthermore, the phrase "as much as in me is" functions as a form of **Emphasis**, underscoring the completeness and sincerity of his personal commitment to the mission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's declaration of readiness in Romans 1:15 is deeply rooted in his understanding of divine calling and the imperative of gospel proclamation. It reflects a theology of mission that sees the spread of the good news not as an optional activity but as a non-negotiable mandate for those commissioned by God. His eagerness to preach, even to a sophisticated and influential city like Rome, demonstrates his conviction in the gospel's universal power to transform lives, regardless of cultural or social standing. This readiness is not born of human ambition but of a divine compulsion and a profound love for Christ and for lost humanity. It underscores the theological truth that God uses willing human instruments to accomplish His redemptive purposes, empowering them to overcome obstacles and fulfill their calling with zeal.

* [Acts 20:24](/acts/20-24 "Acts 20:24 - Paul's Readiness to Finish His Course")
* [1 Corinthians 9:16](/1_corinthians/9-16 "1 Corinthians 9:16 - Paul's Compulsion to Preach the Gospel")
* [Philippians 1:12-18](/philippians/1-12-18 "Philippians 1:12-18 - Paul's Joy in the Gospel's Advancement")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's unwavering readiness to preach the gospel in Rome, despite the potential challenges and the sheer magnitude of the task, serves as a powerful model for believers today. It challenges us to cultivate a similar spirit of preparedness and eagerness to share the transformative message of Christ within our own spheres of influence. This readiness is not about having all the answers or being perfectly eloquent, but about a heart aligned with God's mission, willing to step out in faith and utilize the opportunities He provides. Like Paul, we are called to be ready to articulate the hope that is within us, whether it's in our immediate family, our workplace, our local community, or through broader global initiatives. His example reminds us that true Christian living involves a proactive commitment to the Great Commission, overcoming hesitation and fear by trusting in the power of the gospel and the enabling grace of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "as much as in me is" mean for my personal readiness to share the gospel in my daily life?**
* **What specific "Romes" (contexts, relationships, communities) has God placed me in where I am called to be ready to preach the gospel?**
* **What fears or hesitations might prevent me from being "ready" to share my faith, and how can I overcome them through prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit?**
* **How can I actively prepare myself to be more effective in communicating the good news to those around me?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "as much as in me is"?**

Answer: By "as much as in me is," Paul is emphasizing his personal, unreserved readiness and commitment to preach the gospel. The Greek phrase (_ho kat' eme_) literally means "as far as it depends on me" or "for my part." It signifies that from his perspective, there are no internal obstacles, no lack of willingness, and no hesitation on his part to fulfill his mission in Rome. It's a declaration of his enthusiastic and complete personal availability for the task, irrespective of external circumstances or potential difficulties. This phrase highlights his inner disposition and zeal for the gospel, indicating that he is fully prepared to act on his apostolic calling.

**Why was it so important for Paul to preach the gospel in Rome?**

Answer: Rome was the capital of the vast Roman Empire, a strategic hub of political, economic, and cultural influence. Preaching the gospel in Rome was crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it represented a significant step in the global dissemination of the gospel, aligning with Paul's overarching mission to reach the Gentile world, as outlined in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Jesus' Commission to Spread the Gospel"). Secondly, establishing a strong Christian presence in the imperial capital could have a ripple effect, allowing the message to spread more easily throughout the empire via its extensive road networks and trade routes. Paul also envisioned Rome as a potential base for further missionary journeys, specifically to Spain, as he mentions in [Romans 15:24](/romans/15-24 "Romans 15:24 - Paul's Plan to Visit Spain"). Finally, his desire to minister to the existing Roman believers (both Jewish and Gentile) aimed to strengthen their faith and unity, addressing theological and practical issues pertinent to a diverse Christian community in the heart of the empire.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's readiness to preach the gospel in Rome finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "gospel" that Paul is so eager to proclaim is not merely a set of abstract principles or good advice, but the very good news _about_ Jesus—His life, death, resurrection, and ascension, and the salvation He accomplished. Paul's apostolic zeal mirrors Christ's own mission, who "came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Just as Jesus was "ready" to go to the cross to accomplish redemption ([Luke 9:51](/luke/9-51 "Luke 9:51 - Jesus Sets His Face Toward Jerusalem")), Paul, empowered by the Spirit of Christ, is ready to endure hardship for the sake of proclaiming that redemptive work. The gospel Paul preaches 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")), a power uniquely embodied in Christ, who is the "image of the invisible God" and "in whom all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell" ([Colossians 1:15-19](/colossians/1-15-19 "Colossians 1:15-19 - The Supremacy of Christ")). Thus, Paul's readiness to evangelize Rome is a direct participation in Christ's ongoing mission to gather His church from every tribe and nation, ultimately pointing all glory back to the Lamb of God who made salvation possible ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "Revelation 7:9-10 - The Multitude from Every Nation Worships God")).

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

Romans 15:20

Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation:

Isaiah 6:8

Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here [am] I; send me.

1 Corinthians 9:17

For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation [of the gospel] is committed unto me.

2 Corinthians 10:15

Not boasting of things without [our] measure, [that is], of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,

2 Corinthians 10:16

To preach the gospel in the [regions] beyond you, [and] not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand.

1 Kings 8:18

And the LORD said unto David my father, Whereas it was in thine heart to build an house unto my name, thou didst well that it was in thine heart.

Matthew 9:38

Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.