ROMANS 15
PAUL CALLS THE ROMANS TO FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF CHRIST
Reflecting on the selfless life of Christ, Paul instructs believers to serve others before themselves. Remembering the welcoming nature of Jesus, Paul desires for the church in Rome to also be welcoming and harmonious. Paul views the Scriptures as a source of encouragement and hope, believing that God provided them as a source of wisdom and endurance.
Quoting the scriptures, Paul reiterates that God has provided hope for both the Gentile and Jewish people (Psalm 18:49, Deuteronomy 32:43, Psalm 117:1-2, Isaiah 11:1-10). Paul trusts that the hope of God will fill believers with hope, joy, and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Paul states his satisfaction with the church in Rome and acknowledges their goodness and knowledge. Although he has corrected some of their practices, Paul speaks to them with the grace and kindness modeled by Jesus. Paul shares his ambitions to continue sharing the gospel in areas that have not yet heard of Jesus. He wants to visit Rome, but prioritizes the regions in need of his aid. He blesses the church in Rome and prays for their continued success.