What does Romans 15:22 mean?

For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you. Romans 15:22

Explanation

Romans 15:22 reads, “For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you.” In this passage, the Apostle Paul is explaining to the Christians in Rome why he has not visited them. He suggests that there have been significant obstacles that have prevented him from making the journey. The verse emphasizes not just a physical hindrance but suggests a deep yearning that Paul has to be with the believers in Rome and the frustration over the delay. The “cause” mentioned here may refer to the work that Paul was engaged in, which was of such a nature that it demanded his presence elsewhere.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the Epistle to the Romans, a letter written by the Apostle Paul, which scholars date around AD 57. Paul wrote to the Roman Christian community, which he had not yet visited at the time of writing. The church in Rome was likely established by early disciples and had become an influential center. Paul’s epistle outlines the fundamental tenets of his theology and lays the groundwork for his anticipated visit. During Paul’s missionary journeys, travel was arduous and time-consuming, and Christian evangelism often encountered resistance which could contribute to the “hinderances” Paul mentions.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse underscores the apostolic commitment to church planting and strengthening. It shows Paul’s dedication to preaching the Gospel and his pastoral concern for the growth of early Christian communities. It may also be seen as demonstrating the providence of God in the timing of Paul’s journeys; despite his intentions, his delayed visit to Rome could be interpreted within the will of God for the right time and circumstances for growth and the spread of the Gospel.

Practical Applications

Paul’s message to the Romans in this verse can be reflected in the practicality of how individuals handle delay and plans that do not unfold as expected. When hindered from achieving our goals, we can take solace in the fact that such delays may serve a larger purpose and that steadfast commitment to our objectives is essential. Furthermore, in ministry and service, the verse encourages patience and perseverance.

Cross-References

• Romans 1:13 – “Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.”
• 1 Thessalonians 2:18 – “Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.”

Language Study

In the original Greek, the phrase “much hindered” is translated from “πολλάκις ενεκοπτόμην” (pollakis enekoptomēn). The word “πολλάκις” (pollakis) means “often” or “frequently,” indicating repeated instances, and “ενεκοπτόμην” (enekoptomēn) comes from “ἐγκόπτω” (enkoptō), which means “to cut into,” “hinder,” or “impede.” The use of these words underscores the intensity and recurrence of the obstacles Paul faced.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient times, journeys were significant undertakings filled with danger and uncertainty. The acceptance of delay or change of plans as an act of divine providence is not unique to Christianity and can be found in other religious and cultural traditions. For instance, the Stoics emphasized the acceptance of fate and focusing on what one can control, a philosophy that bears some similarity to the Christian understanding of providence.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, discussing the travel hinderances faced by Paul might involve understanding the difficulties of ancient transportation, the physical limitations of travel by foot, beast, or ship, and concerns such as the spread of diseases, all contributing factors to travel issues in the ancient world. Modern research into the logistics of Roman-era transportation can give context to the types of “hindrances” someone like Paul may have encountered.

Commentaries

According to the Expositor’s Greek Testament, this verse reflects Paul’s repeated efforts to visit Rome, which were thwarted for various reasons. Matthew Henry’s commentary notes that Paul’s life was a life of plans for the good of the church and the glory of God, often interrupted and unfulfilled. John Calvin’s commentary remarks on the providence of God in Paul’s delays, stating that all things, even hindrances, are ordered by God’s governance. These commentaries stress the sovereignty of God in the missionary efforts of His servants, as well as the complex circumstances of apostolic ministry.