Romans 15:28
When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain.
Original Language Analysis
οὖν
When therefore
G3767
οὖν
When therefore
Strong's:
G3767
Word #:
2 of 15
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
ἐπιτελέσας
I have performed
G2005
ἐπιτελέσας
I have performed
Strong's:
G2005
Word #:
3 of 15
to fulfill further (or completely), i.e., execute; by implication, to terminate, undergo
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
σφραγισάμενος
have sealed
G4972
σφραγισάμενος
have sealed
Strong's:
G4972
Word #:
5 of 15
to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest
αὐτοῖς
to them
G846
αὐτοῖς
to them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
6 of 15
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀπελεύσομαι
I will come
G565
ἀπελεύσομαι
I will come
Strong's:
G565
Word #:
10 of 15
to go off (i.e., depart), aside (i.e., apart) or behind (i.e., follow), literally or figuratively
δι'
by
G1223
δι'
by
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
11 of 15
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
13 of 15
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
Cross References
Romans 15:24Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company.Philippians 4:17Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.
Historical Context
The 'seal' metaphor may also suggest Paul's authoritative endorsement of the gift, protecting Jerusalem leaders from accusations the money was improperly collected or delivered. Given tensions between Paul and some Jerusalem Christians (Acts 21:20-21), his personal delivery and 'sealing' of the offering was diplomatically wise. It showed respect and transparency.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Paul's careful 'sealing' and authentication of the financial gift model accountability and integrity in handling church finances?
- What 'fruit' is your life and ministry producing that will be 'sealed' as authentic evidence of gospel transformation?
- In what ways does completing present responsibilities (Jerusalem) before pursuing future opportunities (Spain) apply to your current season?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit (τοῦτο οὖν ἐπιτελέσας, καὶ σφραγισάμενος αὐτοῖς τὸν καρπὸν τοῦτον, touto oun epitelesas, kai sphragisamenos autois ton karpon touton)—Epitelesas (having completed, accomplished) indicates thorough fulfillment of his commission to deliver the collection. Sphragisamenos (having sealed) uses commercial language: securing/authenticating a transaction by seal. Paul will officially deliver and authenticate the Gentile churches' karpon (fruit)—both the monetary gift and the spiritual fruit of Gentile love and unity it represents. The collection is tangible proof of gospel transformation: former pagans now sacrificing to support Jewish believers in Jerusalem.
I will come by you into Spain (ἀπελεύσομαι δι' ὑμῶν εἰς Σπανίαν, apeleusomai di' hymōn eis Spanian)—Di' hymōn (through you, by way of you) reiterates v. 24: Rome is strategically positioned for Spanish mission. Paul envisions sequential progress: complete eastern mission → deliver Jerusalem collection → visit Rome → launch Spanish mission. This demonstrates apostolic planning, strategic thinking, and phased mission execution.