Romans 15:14-33; Romans 16

Romans 15:14-33; Romans 16
Even as he reminds the Romans of some areas where they need improvement, Paul praises the Lord for them. He has not yet been able to visit them because he has been called to preach the Good News primarily to Gentiles across the region. He tells them about the many Gentiles he saw saved through his ministry, vv. 14-19.

Paul explains that his desire has always been to preach the Good News where the name of Christ has never been heard. He says that this is the reason he hasn't yet been able to visit the Roman church, vv. 10-22

In vv. 23-33 Paul tells them a little more about his plans which are to take an offering to the poor believers in Jerusalem. The offering was from Christians in Macedonia and Achaia who wished to show their appreciation to those in Jerusalem who had told them about the Gospel.

Then Paul asks the Roman Christians to pray for him, and in that way they will have a part in his ministry. V. 33 sounds like the end of the letter, and indeed it is the end of Paul's actual teaching in this letter. Chapter 16 includes personal greetings and remarks to individuals.

Romans 16
Paul is quick to recognize fellow workers--men and women who were dear to him in the Lord's work.
This is a good lesson for us--don't forget those faithful servants who serve willingly, sometimes is forgotten and thankless jobs.

Phoebe: In this version she is called a deacon (servant and helper). He says she is worthy of honor, and the Romans are to give her whatever she needs. It is thought that she delivered this letter from Paul to the Roman church.

Priscilla and Aquila: They are a couple whom Paul calls co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus. He remembers that they once risked their lives for him. He asks the Romans to greet the church that meets in their home.

Paul goes on to mention numerous people by name. He calls them friends and co-workers. He asks the Roman believers and his friends to greet each other in Christian love. v. 16.

Paul gives his final instructions in vv. 17-20. He warns them to stay away from people who cause divisions by teaching something contrary to what they had been taught. This is still good advice. Watch out for people who cause divisions and avoid them! Remember that we can determine the truth through careful study of God's Word.

And finally, the letter ends with more greetings from Paul's friends and fellow workers. Tertius was apparently the secretary or scribe who wrote down Paul's words. And then Paul praises the Lord that the Good News of Jesus Christ has been revealed to people everywhere.