Browse Bible Study Resources

Daily Devotions

Romans

Romans 
Day 
Day 333

"Having a great desire these many years to come to you..."

Text: Romans 15:23

MORE PERSONAL GLIMPSES

Paul revealed many more glimpses of himself in the following text. His great heart of preaching the Gospel among the Gentiles is truly inspirational.

“But now no longer having a place in these parts,
and having a great desire these many years to come to you,
whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you.
For I hope to see you on my journey,
and to be helped on my way there by you, if first I may
enjoy your company for a while.”
Romans 15:23-24

1. But now no longer having a place in these parts

a) Paul was making a reference to his having preached the Gospel fully.
b) He had developed a circuit for his ministry (Cf. Acts 12-21).
c) He felt that he had done all he could.

2. Having a great desire to come to you

a) There were plans to minister in Spain.
b) There was also a great desire to visit Rome.

3. I shall come to you

Two thoughts were expressed openly.

a) If first I may enjoy your company.

Paul found much meaning in fellowship with fellow-believers. This is well expressed in this famous statement:

“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you…
For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now”
Philippians 1:3, 5

b) And to be helped on my way there by you.

Paul was most forthright when he wrote these words!

i) He looked forward to support from the Church in Rome; he did not feel that it was presumptuous to speak so frankly.
ii) He felt sure that they would give him the support for his proposed ministry to preach the Gospel in Spain.