"That you may be established…" Romans 1:11

REASONS FOR WANTING TO MINISTER IN ROME

What were some of the reasons why Paul wanted to minister in Rome? The answer is found in the following text.

"For I long to see you, that I may impart to you
some spiritual gift, so that you may be established-
that is, that I may be encouraged together with you
by the mutual faith both of you and me."
Romans 1:11-12

1. A Good and noble motive

Paul was pleased by the fact that the Roman church possessed a faith that was known and appreciated throughout the world. However, this does not mean that they did not need to grow further in faith.

a) A desire to impart a spiritual gift

Paul did not specify what that gift was! However, the following things may be suggested:-

i) The gift of deep spiritual knowledge.

Paul was immensely well-equipped to impart profound Biblical knowledge! From what he wrote in his epistle to the Romans, we can understand why he desired to impart "some spiritual gift" to the Romans.

ii) A gift that would help the church to be truly well-established

Through experience, Paul knew that a church must be well-established in the faith. The Galatian and Colossian churches had to fend off false teachers. They needed to be established in their faith. The Romans had begun well, but Paul felt that he could help them to become established.

b) A desire to mutually benefit each other

Paul did not want the Roman Christians to misunderstand what he said. Yes, he looked forward to being a blessing to the Romans! But he also looked at how he could be spiritually encouraged through ministry among the Roman believers.

2. Mutual faith

What humility Paul exhibited in this text!

a) Imagine being able to spiritually benefit a man like the apostle Paul!

b) Faith is gloriously profound.

Paul had amassed a tremendous amount of knowledge and faith over the years of studying and teaching God's word. Nevertheless, he felt that he would somehow find encouragement through the mutual faith they shared! Faith is profound indeed!