Romans 15:28

When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain.

When therefore {G3767} I have performed {G2005} this {G5124}, and {G2532} have sealed {G4972} to them {G846} this {G5126} fruit {G2590}, I will come {G565} by {G1223} you {G5216} into {G1519} Spain {G4681}.

So when I have finished this task and made certain that they have received this fruit, I will leave for Spain and visit you on my way there;

So after I have completed this service and have safely delivered this bounty to them, I will set off to Spain by way of you.

When therefore I have accomplished this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will go on by you unto Spain.

Romans 15:28 (KJV) reveals the Apostle Paul's determined travel plans and missionary strategy after completing a significant task. This verse captures his intention to visit the believers in Rome on his way to the unreached regions of Spain.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's extended explanation of his apostolic ministry and future travel itinerary to the Roman church. Prior to this, he discusses his long-standing desire to visit Rome (Romans 1:11-13) and his commitment to preaching the gospel where Christ has not been named (Romans 15:20). The immediate context refers to his current mission to deliver a financial collection, often called the "relief for the saints," gathered from Gentile churches in Macedonia and Achaia for the poor believers in Jerusalem (Romans 15:25-27). This act of generosity symbolized the unity between Jewish and Gentile believers.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Fulfillment: Paul emphasizes the completion of his ministry in the eastern regions, particularly concerning the collection for Jerusalem. His use of "performed this" and "sealed to them this fruit" highlights his meticulous dedication to fulfilling his commitments and ensuring the integrity of the offering.
  • Strategic Missionary Vision: Paul's gaze is fixed on new frontiers. Having established churches in the East, his ambition was to carry the gospel to the furthest known reaches of the Roman Empire, specifically Spain. This demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.
  • Partnership in the Gospel: Paul views his visit to Rome as a stopover, seeking their support and fellowship before embarking on his mission to Spain. This underscores the collaborative nature of early Christian missions, where churches partnered in prayer and resources to spread the message of Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "sealed to them this fruit" is significant. The word "sealed" (Greek: sphragizo) implies not just delivery, but also authentication, security, and completion. It suggests Paul's commitment to ensuring the collection was securely delivered and properly acknowledged, like sealing a document to confirm its authenticity. "Fruit" here refers to the tangible outcome or benefit of the Gentile churches' generosity, a spiritual harvest of their faith and love.

Practical Application

  • Commitment to Duty: Paul's example reminds us of the importance of fulfilling our commitments, especially in ministry and service. Completing tasks with integrity, whether small or large, honors God.
  • Vision Beyond the Immediate: Like Paul, believers are called to look beyond their current circumstances to identify new opportunities for service and evangelism. What "Spain" might God be calling you to reach, whether geographically or relationally?
  • Value of Partnership: The early church thrived on partnership. We are reminded that significant spiritual work often requires the collective effort, support, and resources of many believers working together.

Reflection

Romans 15:28 not only details Paul's travel plans but also beautifully illustrates his unwavering dedication to the gospel, his strategic thinking, and his reliance on the partnership of fellow believers. It's a testament to the missionary heart that seeks to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to every corner of the world.

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.

  • Romans 15:24

    Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your [company].

  • Philippians 4:17

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

  • Colossians 1:6

    Which is come unto you, as [it is] in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as [it doth] also in you, since the day ye heard [of it], and knew the grace of God in truth:

  • Lamentations 3:37

    ¶ Who [is] he [that] saith, and it cometh to pass, [when] the Lord commandeth [it] not?

  • Proverbs 19:21

    ¶ [There are] many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.

  • James 4:13

    Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:

  • James 4:15

    For that ye [ought] to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.

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