What does Romans 15:24 mean?

Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company. Romans 15:24

Explanation

Romans 15:24, as part of the Apostle Paul’s letter to the church in Rome, provides a glimpse into his travel plans and his desire for fellowship with the Roman Christians. In this verse, Paul expresses his intention to visit Spain and mentions that on his way, he plans to stop by and see the Roman believers. The phrase, “I trust to see you in my journey,” reflects Paul’s hopeful expectation to have communion with them. He also hints at the idea of being supported by them on his journey after having enjoyed their company, using the terms “brought on my way thitherward by you” and “if first I be somewhat filled with your company.” The latter part of the verse suggests that Paul seeks not just a brief visit, but a meaningful experience of Christian fellowship that would ‘fill’ him.

Historical Context

When Paul wrote this letter, he had not yet visited Rome. It is likely written in the mid-50s A.D., from Corinth during his third missionary journey. Paul’s intention was to evangelize in the western parts of the Roman Empire, with Spain being the farthest west that the known world extended at the time. Though the text does not explicitly mention it, in Paul’s era, it was common for churches to support missionaries on their journeys, both financially and through accompaniment.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse illustrates the concept of Christian partnership in mission and evangelism. It is a practical outworking of the unity in the Body of Christ, which Paul often emphasized. The mention of “being brought on my way” implies the cooperation that should exist among Christians. Some theological perspectives might also see this verse as an example of early Christian hospitality and the supporting of apostolic work.

Practical Applications

The verse can be applied in several ways. Christians today can learn the value of supporting mission work, both through direct involvement and through providing for the needs of missionaries. The idea of being “filled” with each other’s company emphasizes the importance of Christian fellowship and encouragement as fundamental to the believers’ emotional and spiritual support.

Cross-References

• Romans 1:11-12: “For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;”
• Acts 20:24: “But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.”
• 3 John 1:6-7: “Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: Because that for his name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of Romans 15:24 include:

• “πορεύομαι” (poreuomai): often translated as “take my journey,” indicating the act of traveling or going.
• “Σπανία” (Spania): Spain, indicating Paul’s intended destination.
• “πληρωθῶ” (plerotho): translated as “I be somewhat filled,” which carries the sense of being completed or made full, suggesting a deep relational experience.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

During Paul’s time, the support of travelers was a common cultural practice, not just within Christianity but in other religious contexts as well. In the Greco-Roman tradition, the concept of Xenia or hospitality was considered a sacred obligation where hosts would provide for the needs of travelers. This practice has parallels in many ancient religious systems which emphasize hospitality as a virtue.

Scientific Perspectives

While not directly related to any scientific discussions, the planning and undertaking of long journeys such as Paul’s anticipated trip to Spain do intersect with disciplines such as geography and anthropology. These disciplines help us understand the natural and cultural challenges faced by ancient travelers, including navigation, travel seasons, and the logistics of provisioning for such trips.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and commentaries note that this verse demonstrates Paul’s mission-driven life. John Stott, in his commentary on Romans, points out that Paul’s ultimate purpose in visiting Rome was to further the gospel in Spain, not simply to enjoy social interaction. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary remarks on the apostle’s plans and commendable desire for fellowship with the Roman Christians, illustrating how personal relationships played a key role in Paul’s ministry strategy. Matthew Henry’s Commentary highlights the willingness of the apostle to receive help from the church in Rome, a sign of the interdependence among believers.