How does Romans 1:13 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? The Text in View “I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that I planned many times to come to you—though I have been prevented from doing so until now—in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles.” “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Paul’s Desire Mirrors Christ’s Commission • “I planned many times to come” echoes Jesus’ “Go.” Paul’s travel plans are his personal obedience to the command. • “Harvest among you” aligns with “make disciples”—both speak of gathering souls for God’s kingdom. • “Among the other Gentiles” connects directly to “all nations.” Paul sees every ethnicity as his field, just as Jesus mandated. • Paul’s frustration at being “prevented” highlights urgency; the Great Commission leaves no room for delay. Why the Link Matters • The Great Commission is not theory; Romans 1:13 shows it lived out in real time. • Paul’s example proves the command is continuous—still binding after Christ’s ascension and operative in apostolic ministry. • Evangelism and discipleship are inseparable; Paul wanted both conversion (“harvest”) and ongoing teaching (see Romans 1:11-12). Supporting Passages That Tie It Together • Acts 13:47—“I have made you a light for the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” • 2 Corinthians 5:20—“We are therefore ambassadors for Christ.” • Colossians 1:28—“We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone… so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.” • Revelation 5:9—worshipers from “every tribe and tongue and people and nation,” the ultimate fulfillment of Matthew 28 and Romans 1:13. Taking It to Heart • Expect obstacles, as Paul did, but keep planning and moving toward unreached people. • Measure ministry by both sowing (preaching) and reaping (disciples made). • Keep the global vision central; local work is vital, yet always connected to the nations. • Rely on Christ’s promised presence (“I am with you always”)—Paul’s perseverance flows from that same assurance. |
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