Romans 15:18-22 (WEL) For I will not speak boldly about any of those things, except what Christ accomplished through me (to make the Gentiles obedient in word and deed). 19 By mighty signs and wonders [done] by the power of God’s Spirit, so that from Jerusalem and all the way to Illyricum I have fully preached the Good News about Christ. 20 In this way, I have earnestly preached the Good News where Christ was unknown, lest I should build on another’s foundation. 21 Nonetheless, as it is written, “Those who were never told about him, will see, and those who haven’t heard will understand.” [Isaiah 52:15] 22 For this reason, I also have been hindered many times from coming to you.
V18 For I will not speak boldly about any of those things, except what Christ accomplished through me (to make the Gentiles obedient in word and deed).
Paul does not boast of all the great things from his ministry. He brags on the blessings of God bearing fruit through him. If we are willing to be used by God, God will use us too. Our whole Christian life is to serve the Lord Jesus faithfully. See Deuteronomy 6:13, Psalm 100:2, and Matthew 6:24.
V19 By mighty signs and wonders [done] by the power of God’s Spirit, so that from Jerusalem and all the way to Illyricum I have fully preached the Good News about Christ.
Since Paul was an Apostle of Jesus Christ, God gave Paul authority to do miracles. Miracles are for authenticating the Gospel message. Since we have the Scriptures, this is not needed today. God called Paul and gave him a commission which included miracles. The signs and wonders (miracles) that Paul did were always 100% true and effectual, unlike most misnamed healers of today.
V20 In this way, I have earnestly preached the Good News where Christ was unknown, lest I should build on another’s foundation.
He went into the Gentile world preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Where others had begun, he avoided. They already heard the Gospel, so he went to other places.
V21 Nonetheless, as it is written, “Those who were never told about him will see, and those who haven’t heard will understand.” [Isaiah 52:15]
This is Paul’s Scriptural reason for his preaching. The preaching of the Gospel will affect all who hear it, but most harden their hearts and refuse.
V22 For this reason, I also have been hindered many times from coming to you.
He wishes to go to Rome, but the Gospel was already being preached there.
We learn:
- To give glory to God for any success we have.
- To not start a church next door or close to another thriving ministry.
Questions:
- Do you give glory to God?
- Are you trying to make converts to you from people who already believe?