13 I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that I have often intended to come to you (but thus far have been prevented), in order that I may reap some harvest among you as well as among the rest of the Gentiles.
Romans 1:13-15, ESV
14 I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish.
15 So I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.
The Apostle Paul is more than ready to visit the church in Rome. He says he’s often intended to go there but has been prevented. (Later, in Romans 15:20-22, we read that Paul needed to go first to areas that have never heard the gospel.) Paul is intent on planting churches and establishing them, making sure their doctrine is set on the correct teaching. It seems that this is his concern with the Roman church. He was ready to go but waiting on the will of God (Romans 1:10).
Even with all that in mind, how can he use such intense words as “obligation” and “eager” when describing with whom he needs to preach the gospel? Why does he feel bound to share with them? The message of Christ had already made it to Rome, so why does he not simply check that area off his list?
Perhaps Paul’s obligation to the Gentiles and his eagerness to preach the gospel to them can be explained in how he was sent.
- Paul was instructed and chosen by God for this task. (Acts 9:15)
- Paul was set apart for this purpose by the Holy Spirit. (Acts 13:2)
- Paul was appointed by Jesus Himself. (Acts 26:14-16)
It would be impossible for Paul ever to doubt his appointment to take the gospel to the Gentiles. God left no room for misinterpretation. Paul’s direction and purpose were clear, and he wasn’t interested in finding out what may happen to him if he altered the plan (1 Cor. 9:16).
As a Gentile myself, I can’t help but smile as I read the words of Paul today. I am thankful he continued to preach the Gospel of God to all who would hear. May my ears never tire of this message and truth.