Romans 1:15
So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.
Original Language Analysis
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κατ'
as much as
G2596
κατ'
as much as
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
3 of 11
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
πρόθυμον
I am ready
G4289
πρόθυμον
I am ready
Strong's:
G4289
Word #:
5 of 11
forward in spirit, i.e., predisposed; neuter (as noun) alacrity
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
Rome in 57 AD was a cosmopolitan city of over one million people—senators, soldiers, slaves, merchants from across the empire. Jewish communities existed despite periodic expulsions. Pagan temples dotted the cityscape, and emperor worship was increasingly mandated. Preaching Christ as Lord in Rome was both dangerous and strategic. Paul's arrival (though as a prisoner) and subsequent ministry, along with Peter's presence, established Rome as a major center of early Christianity, culminating in Peter and Paul's martyrdoms under Nero.
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean to be 'eager' (πρόθυμος) to preach the gospel, and does this characterize your witness?
- How do you continue to proclaim and apply the gospel to yourself as a believer, not just to unbelievers?
- If you were called to bring the gospel to the most powerful, pluralistic, or pagan place in your culture, would you go eagerly or reluctantly?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.
Paul concludes his introductory remarks with personal readiness: houtō to kat' eme prothymon kai humin tois en Rhōmē euangelisasthai (οὕτω τὸ κατ' ἐμὲ πρόθυμον καὶ ὑμῖν τοῖς ἐν Ῥώμῃ εὐαγγελίσασθαι, 'thus, as much as is in me, I am eager also to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome'). To kat' eme prothymon (as far as it depends on me, I am eager) shows Paul's willing heart, though ultimate fulfillment rests with God's providence (v. 10).
Euangelisasthai (εὐαγγελίσασθαι, to preach the gospel) is Paul's great task. Even in Rome, where a church already existed, Paul desired to proclaim the gospel. This suggests gospel preaching is not merely for evangelizing the lost but for building up believers—expounding the riches of Christ, justification, sanctification, and glorification (themes Paul develops in Romans). The gospel is inexhaustible; believers need continual gospel saturation. Paul's eagerness to preach in Rome, the empire's heart, also had strategic significance—if the gospel transformed Rome, it could transform the world.