Romans 15 - Christians Show Their Maturity By Putting Other's Interest Above Their Own!

Click Here to Read or Listen to Romans 15

Paul continues to teach on how members in the body of Christ should support each other. In the last chapter, he urged the more mature believers to use their freedom to build up the less mature believers. This might making personal choices that might make a weaker brother or sister stumble. The question each believer should ask as we live out our calling in the church is, "How can I build up others rather than just looking to meet my own needs?" 

We do this to imitate the way of life of Jesus, who always looked to the best interests of others instead of himself. Importantly this meant having the "same mindset" as Christ did. Doing the right thing is not always easy. Many times we may have to deny ourselves and our own rights to serve each other in love. This means having an attitude of gratitude and living out your life in thanksgiving for what Christ has done for you. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

Jesus gave us the example of accepting both Jews and Gentiles. Paul quotes four Old Testament passages to point to the fact that it was God's plan to reach out to the Gentiles from the beginning. He chose Israel to reveal his plan of salvation, which meant being a light to all nations. As a result of being obedient, Paul told the Roman believers that they would be filled with hope and joy through the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Paul's Plan to Visit Rome

Paul tells the church of his plan to visit them in person, on his way to Spain. He also asked them for financial assistance for the cost of his travel. His current plan was to travel to Jerusalem to bring the love offering the saints from the churches in Philippi and Corinth gave to help the poor in Jerusalem. It is in this vein that he asks for the financial support from the Romans. 

Notice Paul is not bashful to ask for financial help, because he knows it is going to the Lord's work. There is nothing self serving about his request. We often have a hard time talking about money in the church, but we shouldn't if we know all of the money is going to the ultimate goal of reaching all people with the Good News of Christ. 

Finally, Paul urges them to pray for him, for he knows going back to Jerusalem will bring out those who wish to do him harm. He hopes that once he finishes this task, he can come and enjoy the fellowship they share in the power of the Holy Spirit.  

Where do you need to adjust your mindset to be more Christ-like as you build up others in your church? How can you use your maturity to help those who are needing to mature in their faith life?

Where can you give to the needs of the church both locally and globally? Are you reflecting generosity in response to the great gift God has given you in Christ?


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