How does Romans 15:28 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Romans 15:28 in Focus “So after I have completed this service and safely delivered this bounty to them, I will set off to Spain by way of you.” The Great Commission Echo “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20) Shared Heartbeat: “Go to the Nations” - Paul’s plan to “set off to Spain” mirrors Jesus’ “all nations”—both assume the gospel must keep moving outward. - Spain represented the edge of the Roman world; Paul is pushing the boundary just as the risen Lord commanded. - Acts 13:47 links Isaiah 49:6 to Paul’s call: light to the Gentiles, salvation “to the ends of the earth.” Spain is his “ends.” Completed Service, Ongoing Mission - “After I have completed this service” shows Paul finishing one assignment before starting another—matching the orderly steps of disciple-making in Matthew 28. - He models faithfulness: collect the offering (2 Corinthians 8–9), deliver it, then press on. Discipleship likewise involves finishing what Christ commands before moving to the next task. Disciple-Making Includes Stewardship - The Jerusalem relief gift ties physical care to spiritual mission. Meeting needs opens doors for teaching obedience (cf. James 2:15-16). - Financial partnership lets the Roman believers join Spain’s outreach, just as the Great Commission invites every church into global work. “With You Always” in Paul’s Travel Plans - Jesus promised continual presence; Paul travels in that confidence (Romans 15:29, “I know that when I come to you, I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ”). - Romans 15:30-32 shows prayer dependence—another expression of trusting the ever-present Lord. Practical Takeaways - Keep the gospel moving: finish present assignments, then look to new fields. - Link generosity with evangelism; giving propels going. - Rely on Christ’s abiding presence and the prayers of fellow believers. - Measure success not just by converts but by completed, obedient service. |
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