Romans 15:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 15:31
31 That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints;
Chapter Context
Romans 15 is a theological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, faith, hope. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 15:31
31 That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints;
Analysis
That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea (ἵνα ῥυσθῶ ἀπὸ τῶν ἀπειθούντων ἐν τῇ Ἰουδαίᾳ, hina rhysthō apo tōn apeithountōn en tē Ioudaia)—Paul's first prayer request: rhysthō (be delivered, rescued) from tōn apeithountōn (those who disobey/disbelieve). Apeithountōn describes unbelieving Jews actively opposing Paul (not merely non-Christians but hostile opponents). Paul faced constant Jewish opposition throughout his ministry (Acts 9:23, 29, 13:45, 50, 14:2, 19, 17:5, 13, 18:12-13, 21:27-31). He feared assassination or mob violence in Jerusalem.
And that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints (καὶ ἵνα ἡ διακονία μου ἡ εἰς Ἰερουσαλὴμ εὐπρόσδεκτος τοῖς ἁγίοις γένηται, kai hina hē diakonia mou hē eis Ierousalēm euprosdektos tois hagiois genētai)—The second request: that his diakonia (service, ministry)—the collection—be euprosdektos (acceptable, well-received) by Jerusalem believers. This reveals Paul's concern: would Jerusalem Christians, given tensions with him (cf. Acts 21:20-21), accept his gift? Rejection would undermine Jewish-Gentile unity he'd worked years to foster. Acceptance would validate Gentile mission and symbolize unity.
Historical Context
Both fears were realized in part. Acts 21:27-36 records his arrest by hostile Jews. Regarding acceptance, Acts 21:17-20a suggests the Jerusalem leaders received him gladly, implying the collection was delivered and accepted, though Luke doesn't explicitly mention it. Ironically, God 'delivered' Paul (v. 31a) through Roman arrest, protecting him from Jewish assassination plots (Acts 23:12-35).
Reflection
- How does Paul's fear that his generous service might be rejected teach about the emotional and relational risks of Christian ministry?
- What does Paul's request for deliverance from danger reveal about the legitimacy of praying for safety while still obeying costly callings?
- Have you experienced offering service or generosity that risked rejection, and how did you navigate that vulnerability?
Word Studies
- Holy: ἅγιος (Hagios) G40 - Holy, sacred, set apart
Cross-References
- Faith: 2 Thessalonians 3:2
- Holy: Romans 15:25, 2 Corinthians 8:4, 9:1