Romans 15:15

Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God,

Nevertheless {G1161}, brethren {G80}, I have written {G1125} the more boldly {G5112} unto you {G5213} in {G575} some sort {G3313}, as {G5613} putting {G1878} you {G5209} in mind {G1878}, because {G1223} of the grace {G5485} that is given {G1325} to me {G3427} of {G5259} God {G2316},

But on some points I have written you quite boldly by way of reminding you about them, because of the grace God has given me

However, I have written you a bold reminder on some points, because of the grace God has given me

But I write the more boldly unto you in some measure, as putting you again in remembrance, because of the grace that was given me of God,

Commentary

Commentary on Romans 15:15

In Romans 15:15, the Apostle Paul offers a key insight into his motivation and manner of writing to the Roman believers. He acknowledges his directness while grounding his authority in God's divine enablement, not in his own merit.

Context

This verse appears near the conclusion of Paul's letter to the Romans, a profound theological treatise. Having extensively discussed doctrines like justification by faith, sanctification, and the relationship between Jewish and Gentile believers, Paul transitions to personal matters, including his apostolic mission and future travel plans. His preceding chapters have addressed sensitive issues, particularly the unity of believers despite differences in practice (e.g., eating meat or observing certain days). Paul's "boldness" here is a self-justification for his directness in addressing a church he did not found, emphasizing that his authority derives from God's specific calling upon his life as the apostle to the Gentiles.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Authority and Humility: Paul admits to writing "more boldly," but immediately attributes this boldness not to personal arrogance, but to "the grace that is given to me of God." This underscores his consistent view that his ministry is a divine gift, not a personal achievement (see 1 Corinthians 15:10). His authority is derived from God's commission, not from his own human wisdom or power.
  • The Grace of God: Central to Paul's theology, "grace" (Greek: charis) is presented as the foundational reason for his ministry. It signifies God's unmerited favor and divine empowerment, enabling Paul to fulfill his unique role as a messenger of the Gospel. It is this grace that grants him the right and ability to instruct and remind the Roman church.
  • Purpose of Instruction: Paul clarifies his intent by stating he is "putting you in mind." This indicates that his primary goal is not to introduce entirely new doctrines, but to remind them of truths they already know or should know. This gentle, reinforcing approach is common in pastoral epistles, aiming to strengthen and refresh their understanding of foundational Christian principles (compare 2 Peter 1:12).
  • Boldness in Ministry: The term "boldly" (Greek: tolmēroteron) suggests a daring or venturing forth. Paul's boldness is not born of self-confidence but of a deep conviction in his divine calling and the truth of the Gospel he proclaims. He is willing to speak directly because of the weight of his God-given responsibility.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "boldly" is tolmēroteron, which implies a daring or adventurous spirit, not out of presumption but from a strong sense of conviction and duty. The term "grace," charis, is fundamental to Paul's theology, emphasizing God's unmerited favor and divine enablement, which is the very foundation of his apostleship and the source of his authority to write and teach.

Practical Application

Romans 15:15 offers a powerful model for all believers in their service to God. It teaches us that any boldness or authority we exercise in spiritual matters must be rooted in "the grace that is given... of God," not in our own abilities or merits. Our purpose in ministry often involves reminding others of foundational truths and encouraging them in their faith, rather than always seeking to impart entirely new knowledge. This verse encourages humility in leadership and service, reminding us that our confidence should rest not in ourselves, but in the divine enablement we receive from God.

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Cross-References

  • Romans 12:3 (9 votes)

    For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:10 (6 votes)

    But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which [was bestowed] upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

  • Romans 12:6 (4 votes)

    Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, [let us prophesy] according to the proportion of faith;

  • Romans 1:5 (4 votes)

    By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:

  • 1 John 5:13 (3 votes)

    These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

  • 2 Peter 3:15 (3 votes)

    And account [that] the longsuffering of our Lord [is] salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

  • 1 Peter 4:10 (3 votes)

    As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.