What does Romans 15:18 mean?

For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed, Romans 15:18

Explanation

Romans 15:18 speaks to the Apostle Paul’s mission and his humility regarding his work among the Gentiles. In this verse, Paul explicitly states that he will only boast about what Christ has accomplished through him, demonstrating his obedience through both words and actions. The “things which Christ hath not wrought by me” refers to Paul’s acknowledgment that any successes he has had in spreading the Gospel and making Gentiles obedient to the faith are not his own, but are achievements accomplished through the power and guidance of Jesus Christ. The deeper meaning here suggests a message about divine enablement, giving credit to God for works done, rather than claiming personal glory. It underscores a theme of being an instrument through which God’s will is done and suggests that the spread of the Gospel is a divine initiative rather than a human one.

Historical Context

The book of Romans is a letter written by Paul to the believers in Rome. This letter is dated around A.D. 57, when Paul was likely in Corinth, near the end of his third missionary journey. During this period, Paul had not yet visited Rome, but was planning his visit. The church in Rome was composed of both Jewish and Gentile believers and there were tensions between them. Paul’s primary aim was to preach to the Gentiles, and in this verse, he is reflecting on his role as an apostle to the Gentiles. His mission was to make the Gospel accessible to all and to bring unity among the believers despite their diverse backgrounds.

Theological Insights

From a theological viewpoint, Romans 15:18 reflects the belief in the sovereignty of God and the servitude of man. It presents the notion that God is the one who works through individuals to fulfill His purposes. Calvinistic theology would support this perspective by emphasizing predestination and divine calling. Conversely, Arminian theology may focus on human cooperation with divine grace. Paul’s assertion also reflects Christocentric theology, suggesting that Christ’s work is central and foundational to the mission of the Church.

Practical Applications

Practically, Romans 15:18 encourages believers to attribute their accomplishments in ministry to God rather than taking personal credit. It also calls for a life that matches one’s message (“by word and deed”), emphasizing integrity and consistency in the Christian faith. Furthermore, it serves as a reminder for individuals to focus on what God has called them to do, without becoming envious or boastful about the work of others.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 3:6-7: “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.”
• 2 Corinthians 10:13-18: “But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.”
• Galatians 6:14: “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.”

Language Study

The key words in Romans 15:18 in the original Greek text include:

• “χριστοῦ” (Christou), meaning “Christ’s.”
• “κατειργάσατο” (kateirgásato), a verb translated as “has accomplished” or “has brought about.”
• “ἐμοὶ” (emoi), meaning “through me” or “by me,” emphasizing Paul’s role as a vessel.
• “ἐθνῶν” (ethnōn), the word for “Gentiles,” referring to non-Jewish people.
• “ἐν λόγῳ καὶ ἔργῳ” (en logō kai ergō), meaning “in word and deed,” indicating the manner of Paul’s mission.

Analyzing these words demonstrates the original emphasis on the achievements being ascribed to Christ’s work through Paul, with a focus on practical fulfillment (deeds) as much as on teaching (word).

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing Romans 15:18 with other ancient religious texts, one might find parallels with the concept of divine intermediary figures found in various mythologies, where humans serve as vessels or instruments for the divine will. However, unlike many mythological heroes who often seek personal glory, Paul’s stance emphasizes humility and deference to the divine.

Scientific Perspectives

While Romans 15:18 does not directly intersect with scientific concepts, it touches on themes of agency and causation. From a psychological standpoint, the acknowledgment of external sources of success aligns with a more communal versus individualistic attribution of achievement, which can influence group dynamics and cooperative behaviors within a community.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and theologians have interpreted Romans 15:18. Commentators like John Stott and F.F. Bruce emphasize Paul’s refusal to take credit for the work of spreading the Gospel, highlighting his recognition of Christ working through him. Other scholars point to Paul’s apostolic calling and his unique role in redemptive history as the Apostle to the Gentiles. Commentaries generally agree that Paul is underscoring the divine origin of his ministry successes and illustrating a model of Christian humility and faithfulness.