Romans 1:13-15;  13 And I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that often I have planned to come to you (and have been prevented thus far) in order that I might obtain some fruit among you also, even as among the rest of the Gentiles. 14 I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. 15 Thus, for my part, I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.

A.  His Desire vs. 13

Fruitful Propagation

And I do not want you to be unaware, brethren,

& that often I have planned to come to you

There was no lack of intention or planning on Paul’s part.  He had a sincere desire to see them.

& (and have been prevented thus far)

Contingencies or Providence?  The American Dictionary says

Þ “con·tin·gen·cy  1.a. An event that may occur but that is not likely or intended; a possibility. b. A possibility that must be prepared for; a future emergency. 2. The condition of being dependent on chance; uncertainty. 3. Something incidental to something else.”

Þ “prov·i·dence  1. Care or preparation in advance; foresight. 2. Prudent management; economy. 3. The care, guardianship, and control exercised by a deity; divine direction: “Some sought the key to history in the working of divine providence” (William Ebenstein). 4. Providence. God.”

We are well aware that our plans are limited to our abilities and the events that come our way.  However, as Christians, we also know that we have a Sovereign God who controls all things and designs them for our ultimate good.  Romans 8:28 & 29.  28 “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. 29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, . . .”  Here is an example where we must operate on the basis of faith.  See 2nd Corinthians  5:7  “for we walk by faith, not by sight—”

& in order that I might obtain some fruit among you also,

Paul’s purpose is transparent.  He has no hidden agenda.  To see God work in them bringing forth fruit in its season was his true objective.  God has so designed this for all His people.  See John 15:8 “By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.”

& even as among the rest of the Gentiles.

This is no unique thing for Paul.  God had blessed his ministry and he was totally committed to it — even unto death.  See 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.  (KJV)

B.  His Determination vs. 14

Impartial Proclamation

I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians,

both to the wise and to the foolish.

& Paul was OBLIGATED!  He had a debt which he could never pay.  1st Timothy 1:^{15 & 16;    15} This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. ¹⁶ Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

& Paul was IMPARTIAL.  He preached to all who would listen.

1st Corinthians 1:21-25,   vs.  21 For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe.

C.  His Destination vs. 15

Unfamiliar Populace

Thus, for my part, I am eager to preach the gospel to you also

 who are in Rome.

Paul would not be intimidated by the powers of Rome.  Indeed, he was not ashamed of the Gospel as we will see next week! 

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.   Oh that God would grant a revival of such a wholesome spirit of witness for our Lord today.

“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved, you and your household.”  Acts 16:31