What does Romans 15:31 mean?

Explanation

Romans 15:31 is a verse in which the Apostle Paul requests the prayers of the Roman Christians for his own protection and for the success of his ministry in Judea.

There are two major components to the verse: a request for personal deliverance ("that I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea") and a hope for his service to be well-received ("that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints").

Paul is expressing a concern for resistance or danger he might face from non-believers in Judea. This reflects the broader theme of struggle and opposition faced by early Christian missionaries.

Additionally, Paul is hoping that his service, which involved bringing a collection from Gentile churches to the impoverished Christian Jewish community in Jerusalem, would be received positively. This reflects a desire for unity and mutual support within the early Christian community.

Historical Context

Paul wrote the letter to the Romans while he was in Corinth around A.D. 57, as he was preparing to go to Jerusalem with the collection he had gathered for the poor among the saints there.

The church in Jerusalem had been experiencing poverty, possibly due to famine and social ostracism.

Judea, being the center of Jewish religious authority, was also a place where the Christian message often met with strong opposition, sometimes leading to violence.

Theological Insights

There are several important theological themes in this verse.

First, it underscores the importance of prayer in Paul's ministry and the early Christian community.

Second, it reflects Paul's belief in divine providence and protection.

Third, the service to the church in Jerusalem symbolizes the unity of Jewish and Gentile believers within the body of Christ and the obligation that Gentile Christians have to support their Jewish brothers and sisters.

Practical Applications

This verse can inspire Christians today to pray for Christian workers and missionaries who face opposition, understanding that such prayer is critical in the life of believers. It also encourages believers to support one another materially, just as Paul sought the support for the Jerusalem church.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 6:18-20: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
• 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2: Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.
• 2 Corinthians 8:4: Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of Romans 15:31 include:

• "Delivered" (ρυσθῶ): This word conveys rescue or protection from danger.
• "Do not believe" (ἀπειθούντων): This term relates to those who are disobedient or unbelieving, indicating a refusal to accept the Christian message.
• "Service" (διακονίαν): This word is often used to refer to Christian ministry or service, reflecting the idea of serving others.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the wider Greco-Roman world, the sharing of resources and support among different religious groups was also common.

However, the Christian approach of Paul especially highlighted cross-cultural generosity and unity, breaking down social and ethnic barriers that were otherwise prevalent. This is in contrast to many ancient myths that focused on the power and prowess of individual gods or heroes.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly intersect with scientific subjects, the sociological aspect of group dynamics and support can be explored through social science.

Modern studies on group cohesion, altruism, and the sociology of religion can shed light on the mechanisms through which groups like the early Christian communities supported one another, both materially and emotionally.

Commentaries

Commentators have varied in their understanding of the specific threats Paul faced in Judea.

Some have pointed to the historical accounts in Acts which recount Paul's arrest in Jerusalem, suggesting a foreshadowing of those events.

Others focus on the theme of unity expressed by Paul's efforts to bring the collection to Jerusalem, seeing it as a pivotal moment in the development of the early Church.

Regardless, many agree that Paul's call for prayer is a model for Christian intercession and that his concern reflects deep pastoral care and commitment to his mission.