In chapter 15 Paul begins his “descent” in this great epistle, masterfully combining fundamental elements of the gospel system (especially unity in Christ) with personal matters and plans. He begins with urging the strong to be selfless like Christ, in order to build up the brethren (see vv. 1-2). After all, if He was patient with them, surely brethren can be patient with one another!
Perhaps surprising to us, Paul alludes to the encouragement that can be found in the OT (v. 4) and will quote from it four times in this chapter. These references are used to show this mixed body of Jews and Gentiles the wonderful fulfillment of God’s design in the inclusion of the Gentiles in the unified body of the Lord. Paul says in verses 5-6 that the OT Scriptures should grant them “to live in harmony with one another” and that “together you may with one voice glorify God.” The conclusion Paul draws from this in verse 7 is: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
In verses 8 and 9, Paul speaks of the ministry of Christ that was primarily to the Jews but paved the way for the Gentiles to glorify God. At this point he shows from the OT that God’s plan always entailed the inclusion of the Gentiles in the hope of the Gospel.
Paul, in contrast with Jesus, was a minister of the Lord especially to the Gentiles (v. 16; see also Gal. 1:15-16). Through word and deed (vv. 18-19), teaching and miracles (the miracles confirming his word), Paul brought Gentiles to obedience (v. 18). His ministry was one of “breaking the ice” in Gentile territory, assisting in the fulfilling of OT prophecy (vv. 20-21; see Is. 52:15).
At the end of the chapter, Paul explained how his ministry to the Gentiles hindered him from coming to them at Rome, but he hoped he would be able to come soon on his way to Spain. The purpose of stopping there would be for refreshment and fellowship (vv. 24, 32), as well as possible help from his brethren there for his continued journey (v. 24).
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But Paul remarks that currently he is on his way to Jerusalem, delivering financial aid to the poor brethren there from the saints in Macedonia and Achaia (vv. 25-26). This act of service is more related to the message of Paul in this book and in this chapter than one might think. You have here predominantly Gentile Christians sending funds to predominantly Jewish Christians! Paul remarks in verse 27, “For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.” What a great unifying act! Not only are these Gentiles helping poor saints, but they are surely assisting in the unity of the body of Christ!
Paul ends this remarkable chapter requesting that his brethren strive together with him in prayer for protection from unbelieving Jews, the reception of the gift from the Gentiles, and his ability to come to them with joy and be refreshed by them (vv. 30-33).
Though we live in very different times, may we cherish and work towards God’s plan of unity in the body of Christ, not just being peaceful, but being peacemakers (see Mt. 5:9).
Daren Schroeder
