Reading 21: Paul’s plans
In this passage from the epistle, many question if Paul was suspicious of his own impending demise as he writes, “join me in earnest prayer to God on my behalf” (Rom. 15:30). Whether true or not, Paul does not tremble, but instead resorts to bold speech in every sense. He boldly prepares to travel safely through Jerusalem, on to Rome into the hands of those who persecute him, and through Rome onto Spain, often considered the farthest possible place to travel in Paul’s world. When faced with adversity and tempted with death, Paul’s resolve becomes even stronger. Why?
Returning to the first part of the reading, Paul makes it clear that he does not boast of his own will, but by the power of the Spirit and with confidence in what Christ has accomplished. Paul makes it clear to his reader, he is a man called by God and sent out (an apostle) of the Gospel of Christ Resurrected. For Paul, his ability to speak boldly comes not of human volition but by the Grace of God (Rom. 15.15).
As Lutherans, we tend to emphasize the dominance and priority of grace. As preachers of the Gospel, however, we may instead give focus to the right words for a sermon (or a book study guide). In this reading, Paul tells us that our ability to share the Good News comes not from proper study, reading, or a well-articulated oration on a Sunday morning. Instead, our power to live out a calling from Christ Jesus to spread the Gospel comes from the power of the Holy Spirit.
Paul made plans to travel to Spain. What is a “reach goal” you may find inconceivable right now in your own ministry?
Paul wanted to preach, “not where Christ has already been named” (Rom 15.20). Where is a place in your context that Christ has not been named? How could you preach there?
Holy Trinity, We thank you for the example of ministry you have given us in the Apostle Paul. We thank you for his bold speech and his faith in Christ. May we similarly live out faithful lives. We ask for the gift of bold speech. May it strengthen the sharing of Your Good News. We ask for hope in the future of our ministries. May our hope be encouraged by the faith of Christ. Be with us as we are sent out to preach the Good News. Amen.
–William Dawn is a recent graduate of NC State in Raleigh with a B.S. in Nuclear Engineering, minoring in Religious Studies. He is an active participant in Lutheran Campus Ministry – Raleigh at Holy Trinity, Raleigh. William’s favorite place to be is outside. Camping, hiking, swimming, running, William likes to live love in creation and take as many pictures as possible along the way!
