What does Romans 15:14 mean?

And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. Romans 15:14

Explanation

Romans 15:14 is a verse in which the Apostle Paul addresses the members of the Roman church with an affirmation of their moral and spiritual qualities. Throughout his epistle to the Romans, Paul has been providing doctrinal teaching and moral exhortations, and here he commends the believers in Rome for their own inherent goodness and knowledge. He expresses confidence that they possess the ability to instruct and admonish one another, implying that they have achieved a certain level of maturity in their faith. The deeper meaning suggests a reciprocal relationship within the Christian community, where believers are encouraged to care for each other by providing guidance and correction when needed, all rooted in the knowledge of the gospel and mutual love.

Historical Context

The Epistle to the Romans was written by Paul around A.D. 57. At this time, Rome had an established Christian community, which was composed of both Jewish and Gentile believers. Paul had not yet visited Rome when he wrote this letter, which is why he took a tone that is both instructive and encouraging. The historical significance lies in the fact that Paul, despite never having been to Rome at the time of writing, felt a connection to the church there and recognized their spiritual progress from afar.

Theological Insights

The verse highlights the importance of community and edification within the body of Christ. From a theological standpoint, scholars suggest that the concept of ‘goodness’ refers to moral excellence that is produced by the Holy Spirit. ‘Filled with all knowledge’ might be understood as a recognition of the comprehensive understanding the Romans had of Christian doctrine. The capacity to admonish each other is viewed as a spiritual gifting, which must be practiced with a balance of truth and love.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Romans 15:14 can be seen as an encouragement to Christians to take an active role in the well-being of their faith community by offering guidance and correction in a spirit of kindness. It also implies a responsibility to grow in personal knowledge of God’s word so that one is equipped to provide such counsel effectively. Moreover, this verse acts as a reminder to receive admonishment from others with humility, understanding it as a form of caring and a pathway to growth.

Cross-References

• Colossians 3:16 – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
• Ephesians 4:15 – “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:”
• 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.”

Language Study

In the Greek text, the term for ‘goodness’ is ‘ἀγαθωσύνη’ (agathosyne), which can mean goodness or virtue. The phrase ‘filled with all knowledge’ uses the Greek word ‘γνῶσις’ (gnosis), signifying a deeper, more perfected knowledge. ‘Admonish’ translates from the Greek ‘νουθετέω’ (noutheteo), which implies instructing or warning with a mind towards correction.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing to other ancient religious texts, the emphasis on community responsibility found in Romans 15:14 is not unique to Christianity. Many ancient philosophies, such as Stoicism, also emphasized virtue and mutual edification within a community. However, in the context of Judeo-Christian tradition, the idea of admonishment is rooted in love and redemption, rather than just moral instruction for civil harmony.

Scientific Perspectives

While Romans 15:14 does not directly engage with scientific content, modern psychology endorses the idea that communities thrive when members support one another’s personal growth. The concept of feedback or admonishment can be linked with theories on behavior modification and positive social reinforcement. Scientific studies on community and mental health also reflect the biblical principle that social support networks are crucial for individual well-being.

Commentaries

Biblical commentators often focus on how Paul is affirming the abilities and qualities of the Roman Christians. W. H. Griffith Thomas, in his commentary, notes Paul’s confidence in the Roman believers’ knowledge and readiness to act responsibly reflects a model for church leaders to affirm and trust their congregations. John Stott emphasizes that the church not only needs oversight from designated leaders but also mutual ministry from all members. Matthew Henry views the verse in light of Christian duty, holding that believers are signalized by their goodness and their readiness both to learn and to teach.