Romans 15:26

For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.

For {G1063} it hath pleased them {G2106} of Macedonia {G3109} and {G2532} Achaia {G882} to make {G4160} a certain {G5100} contribution {G2842} for {G1519} the poor {G4434} saints {G40} which {G3588} are at {G1722} Jerusalem {G2419}.

For Macedonia and Achaia thought it would be good to make some contribution to the poor among God’s people in Yerushalayim.

For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem.

For it hath been the good pleasure of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor among the saints that are at Jerusalem.

Romans 15:26 highlights a significant act of Christian charity and unity in the early church. This verse details a specific financial contribution gathered from Gentile believers in the Roman provinces of Macedonia and Achaia, intended to support the impoverished Christian community in Jerusalem.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's broader discussion about his missionary plans and his desire to visit Rome. Before heading west to Spain, Paul felt compelled to first travel to Jerusalem to deliver this collected offering. The collection itself was a major undertaking, representing the practical outworking of the gospel and a tangible bond between the Gentile churches and the original Jewish Christian community in Jerusalem. Paul discusses this collection extensively in his other letters, providing instructions and encouragement for its successful completion, such as in 1 Corinthians 16:1-4 and 2 Corinthians chapters 8 and 9. This act underscored the unity of the body of Christ, bridging geographical and cultural divides.

Key Themes

  • Christian Unity and Fellowship: The offering symbolizes the solidarity between Jewish and Gentile believers, demonstrating that in Christ, the dividing wall had been broken down (Ephesians 2:14). It showed mutual care and brotherhood across different cultural backgrounds.
  • Generosity and Practical Love: The churches in Macedonia and Achaia, though themselves often facing hardship, gave willingly and sacrificially. This act was a concrete expression of their love and compassion for their fellow believers, particularly those in need. It reflects the principle of cheerful giving.
  • Support for the Poor Saints: The "poor saints" in Jerusalem likely faced economic challenges due to famine, persecution, and potentially the communal living practices of the early church described in Acts 4:34-35. This collection addressed their immediate material needs.
  • Apostolic Ministry: Paul's role in facilitating this collection highlights his commitment not only to preaching the gospel but also to fostering practical expressions of Christian love and unity within the broader church.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "contribution" is koinonia (κοινωνία), which carries a rich meaning beyond a mere financial gift. While it certainly refers to the collection of money, koinonia also signifies "fellowship," "partnership," "sharing," or "communion." This suggests that the act of giving was not just about charity but about a deep, shared spiritual bond and mutual participation in the life of the church. The financial aid was a tangible expression of their spiritual unity and shared life in Christ.

Significance and Application

Romans 15:26 offers timeless lessons for believers today. It reminds us that Christian faith is not merely theoretical but calls for practical action, especially in caring for those in need within the global body of Christ. The willingness of the Macedonian and Achaian churches to give, despite their own circumstances, challenges us to cultivate a spirit of generosity and compassion. This verse encourages us to:

  • Support Fellow Believers: Actively seek opportunities to help brothers and sisters in Christ, whether locally or globally, who are facing hardship.
  • Foster Unity: Recognize that our shared faith transcends geographical, ethnic, or economic differences, uniting us in a common purpose and love.
  • Give Sacrificially: Understand that true generosity often involves personal sacrifice, reflecting the example of the early churches.

Ultimately, this verse is a powerful testament to the unifying and practical nature of Christian love, demonstrating how the gospel transforms individuals and communities into a supportive, interconnected family.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:1

    ¶ Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;

  • 2 Corinthians 8:9

    For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

  • Acts 11:27

    ¶ And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.

  • Acts 11:30

    Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

  • 2 Corinthians 9:2

    For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.

  • 2 Corinthians 9:12

    For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;

  • Matthew 26:11

    For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.

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