Romans 15:25-33 The Gentiles' Ministry To The Jews

Paul next describes the Gentiles' ministry to the Jews.

"Paul and his associates had received a special offering from the Gentile churches in Greece for the suffering Jewish saints in Jerusalem ... It was an expression of love on the part of the Gentiles toward their Jewish brethren.  Second, it meant practical relief at a time when the poor Jewish believers needed it the most.  Third, it helped to unite Jews and Gentiles in the church."

"Paul looked on this offering as the paying of a debt.  The Gentiles had received spiritual wealth from the Jews.  They now returned material wealth, paying their debt."

"It was also a fruit ... the natural result of their walk with the Lord.  When the life of the Spirit flows through a church, giving is no problem."

Romans 15:30 suggests wrestling together, my commentary said.  "This verse does not mean that we must fight with God to get what we need.  Rather, it means our praying must not be a casual experience that has no heart or earnestness.  We should put as much fervor into our praying as a wrestler does into his wrestling!"

Father God, stoke up my prayer life.  Let me feel Your presence and help me to wrestle with You to get Your will done on earth.

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford