Romans 15:25

KJV

But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} now {G3570} I go {G4198} unto {G1519} Jerusalem {G2419} to minister {G1247} unto the saints {G40}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But now I am going to Yerushalayim with aid for God’s people there.

Berean Standard Bible

Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem to serve the saints there.

American Standard Version

but now, I say, I go unto Jerusalem, ministering unto the saints.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Romans 15:25, the Apostle Paul articulates his immediate and divinely directed travel plans, stating his intention to journey to Jerusalem. This journey is not for personal gain or exploration, but rather to perform a vital act of service and solidarity for the Christian community there. This verse serves as a crucial transition in his letter, outlining his present commitment before detailing his long-term missionary aspirations to visit Rome and eventually Spain.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 15:25 immediately follows Paul's detailed exposition of his missionary strategy and his deep desire to visit the Roman believers. In [Romans 15:23-24](/romans/15-23-24 "Paul's Desire to Visit Rome"), Paul expresses his eagerness to finally come to Rome after years of longing, intending to use it as a stepping stone for further missionary work in Spain. However, he introduces a critical detour to Jerusalem with the phrase "But now I go," indicating a necessary prior engagement. This statement clarifies that while his ultimate goal is Rome, his immediate divine mandate takes precedence. The subsequent verses in [Romans 15:26-27](/romans/15-26-27 "The Collection for Jerusalem") explicitly reveal the nature of this ministry: delivering a financial collection from the Gentile churches in Macedonia and Achaia to the impoverished saints in Jerusalem. This act underscores the practical outworking of Christian fellowship and the spiritual debt Gentile believers owed to their Jewish brethren, from whom the gospel originated.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The collection for the Jerusalem saints was a significant undertaking for Paul, spanning several years and involving numerous churches (cf. [1 Corinthians 16:1-4](/1_corinthians/16-1-4 "Instructions for the Collection") and [2 Corinthians 8-9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "Principles of Generous Giving")). Jerusalem, as the birthplace of the church, faced severe economic hardship, compounded by famine and persecution. The Jewish Christians there were often ostracized by their Jewish communities and lacked the social safety nets available to others. Paul viewed this collection not merely as financial aid but as a tangible expression of unity between Jewish and Gentile believers, demonstrating that the gospel had indeed broken down the dividing wall (as described in [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Christ Our Peace")). Culturally, such an offering would have been understood as an act of profound solidarity and a recognition of the spiritual heritage shared by all believers. Paul's journey to Jerusalem was also fraught with danger, as he was aware of the hostility he faced from Jewish zealots who opposed his mission to the Gentiles (cf. [Acts 20:22-23](/acts/20-22-23 "Paul's Resolve to Go to Jerusalem")).
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Romans and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Christian Service and Ministry**, emphasizing that true faith is expressed through practical acts of love and generosity towards fellow believers, particularly those in need. Paul's willingness to "minister" underscores the self-sacrificial nature of apostolic calling. Secondly, it reinforces the theme of **Unity and Fellowship in the Body of Christ**, showcasing how material support can bridge cultural and ethnic divides, fostering genuine communion between Jewish and Gentile believers—a central tenet of Paul's gospel. Thirdly, it exemplifies **Apostolic Obedience and Divine Leading**, as Paul prioritizes God's immediate call to Jerusalem, even though his personal desire was to proceed directly to Rome. This demonstrates his commitment to fulfilling his mission, regardless of personal convenience or potential peril, a resolve evident in passages like [Acts 21](/acts/21 "Paul's Arrival in Jerusalem and Arrest").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **now (Greek, _nyní'_):** This adverb emphasizes the immediate present, signaling a shift in Paul's itinerary from his long-desired trip to Rome to an urgent, current mission. It highlights the priority and immediacy of his journey to Jerusalem.
* **go (Greek, _poreúomai'_):** Derived from a word meaning "to traverse," this verb signifies purposeful movement or travel. It indicates Paul's deliberate and determined journey towards Jerusalem, implying a mission-oriented expedition rather than a casual visit.
* **minister (Greek, _diakonéō'_):** This verb means "to be an attendant, to wait upon, or to serve." It emphasizes practical, often humble, service. In this context, it specifically refers to Paul's role in delivering the financial collection to the saints, underscoring that even a prominent apostle engages in tangible acts of care and support for the community.
* **saints (Greek, _hágios'_):** Meaning "sacred, pure, or consecrated," this term refers to believers who are set apart by God. It is a common designation for Christians in the New Testament, emphasizing their unique status as God's chosen people, called to holiness and belonging to His divine family.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But now I go":** This phrase marks a decisive pivot in Paul's plans. The conjunction "But" (G1161, _dé_) introduces a contrast or a new development. "Now" (G3570, _nyní_) emphasizes the immediacy of this action, indicating that despite his long-standing desire to visit Rome, an urgent and necessary task takes precedence. Paul's "going" (G4198, _poreúomai_) is not a casual trip but a purposeful journey, underscoring his commitment to his apostolic duties.
* **"unto Jerusalem":** This specifies the destination of Paul's immediate journey. Jerusalem holds immense significance as the spiritual capital of Judaism and the birthplace of the Christian church. It was also a place of considerable danger for Paul, given the intense opposition he faced from various Jewish factions. His willingness to go there demonstrates his courage and obedience to God's call, even into hostile territory.
* **"to minister unto the saints":** This clause clarifies the precise purpose of Paul's journey. The verb "to minister" (G1247, _diakonéō_) denotes practical service, specifically referring to the delivery of the financial collection gathered from the Gentile churches for the impoverished Jewish believers in Jerusalem. This act of service was a tangible expression of Christian love, solidarity, and the unity between Jewish and Gentile segments of the early church. The "saints" (G40, _hágios_) are the fellow believers, set apart by God, highlighting the communal and spiritual nature of this benevolent act.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs a **Purpose Clause** ("to minister unto the saints") which clearly articulates the specific reason for his journey, highlighting the practical and charitable nature of his immediate mission. The use of "But now" serves as a **Transitional Marker**, signaling a shift from his long-term desires (visiting Rome) to his immediate, divinely appointed task. This creates a sense of **Anticipation** for the Roman readers, as they learn of Paul's detour before his eventual arrival. Furthermore, given the historical context of Paul's eventual arrest and trials in Jerusalem, this verse can be seen as an instance of **Foreshadowing**, subtly hinting at the challenges and dangers that awaited him there, though Paul himself may not have fully grasped the extent of the peril at this precise moment of writing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 15:25 powerfully illustrates the theological principle that Christian faith is not merely intellectual assent but is profoundly expressed through tangible acts of love and service. Paul's journey to Jerusalem to "minister unto the saints" embodies the deep interconnectedness of the global church, emphasizing that believers, regardless of their background, are one body in Christ and are called to bear one another's burdens. This act of generosity from Gentile churches to Jewish believers in Jerusalem served as a powerful testament to the unifying power of the gospel, breaking down ethnic and cultural barriers and demonstrating the practical outworking of reconciliation achieved through Christ. It underscores that true ministry extends beyond spiritual teaching to encompass compassionate action and fostering unity among all members of the body of Christ.

* [1 Corinthians 16:1-4](/1_corinthians/16-1-4 "The Collection for the Saints")
* [2 Corinthians 9:12-14](/2_corinthians/9-12-14 "The Benefits of the Collection")
* [Acts 20:22-24](/acts/20-22-24 "Paul's Resolve to Go to Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's immediate detour to Jerusalem, prioritizing the needs of the saints over his personal desire to visit Rome, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It challenges us to consider where our priorities lie and whether we are willing to set aside our own plans for the sake of serving others, especially those within the family of faith who are in need. This verse reminds us that "ministry" is not solely about preaching or teaching, but encompasses practical acts of generosity, compassion, and solidarity. It calls us to cultivate a heart that is sensitive to the physical and material needs of fellow believers, recognizing that our faith is made visible through our love for one another. Just as the Gentile churches expressed their gratitude and spiritual debt through a tangible offering, we too are called to participate in the mutual support and edification of the body of Christ, fostering genuine unity and alleviating suffering wherever we can.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might God be calling you to "minister unto the saints" in your immediate community or globally, even if it means adjusting your personal plans?**
* **How does practical service, like financial giving or physical aid, contribute to the unity and health of the church today?**
* **What "Jerusalem" might God be calling you to, a place or situation that may involve personal sacrifice or potential difficulty, but is essential for His kingdom purposes?**

### FAQ

**What was the nature of the "ministry" Paul was going to perform in Jerusalem?**

Answer: The "ministry" Paul was going to perform in Jerusalem was primarily the delivery of a significant financial collection. This offering had been gathered from the Gentile churches in Macedonia and Achaia (modern-day Greece) for the impoverished Jewish Christians in Jerusalem. Paul viewed this act as a sacred service, a tangible expression of the unity and fellowship between Jewish and Gentile believers, and a fulfillment of the spiritual debt Gentile believers owed to those from whom the gospel had originated. It was a practical demonstration of Christian love and solidarity, as detailed in [2 Corinthians 8-9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "Paul's Teaching on Generous Giving").

**Why was Jerusalem a significant and potentially dangerous destination for Paul?**

Answer: Jerusalem was significant as the historical and spiritual center of Judaism and the birthplace of the early Christian church. However, it was also a city where Paul faced considerable opposition. As the "apostle to the Gentiles," his ministry was often viewed with suspicion and hostility by certain Jewish factions who believed he was undermining the Law and Jewish traditions. Paul himself was aware of the dangers, as indicated in [Acts 20:22-23](/acts/20-22-23 "Paul's Foreknowledge of Suffering"), where he speaks of being compelled by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem, "not knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit warns me in every city that imprisonment and hardships await me." His subsequent arrest and trials in Jerusalem, as recorded in [Acts 21-26](/acts/21 "Paul's Arrest in Jerusalem"), confirmed these premonitions.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's journey to Jerusalem to "minister unto the saints" finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as Paul willingly set aside his own desires and faced potential peril for the sake of serving the body of Christ, so too did Christ, the ultimate Servant, embark on His purposeful journey to Jerusalem. His "going" to Jerusalem was not merely a geographical movement but a determined progression towards the cross, where He would "minister" not just to the saints, but to all humanity, by offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin. [Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "The Humiliation of Christ") beautifully articulates Christ's self-emptying service, taking "the form of a servant" and humbling Himself "even to the point of death on a cross." He came "not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Jesus' Purpose: To Serve and Give His Life")). Furthermore, Christ's identification with the "saints" is absolute; He considers service rendered to His followers as service rendered to Himself ([Matthew 25:40](/matthew/25-40 "Whatever You Did for One of the Least of These")). Thus, Paul's act of ministering to the physical needs of the Jerusalem believers reflects the very heart of Christ, who perfectly exemplified sacrificial service and solidarity with His people, culminating in His ultimate act of love on Calvary.

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 24:17

Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.

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.

Acts 20:22

And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:

Acts 20:16

For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.

1 Corinthians 16:1

¶ Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye.

1 Corinthians 16:3

And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by [your] letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem.

Acts 18:21

But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus.