Before we move on from our study of the introduction in Romans take a moment to reflect on those Paul targeted as recipients of this letter. Romans 1:7 says,“To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints”
Note, they were loved by God. That’s why God called them to be saints. When they turned to God and accepted the gospel by faith they began a life of obedience and were so changed by their conversion that their faith was “being reported all over the world.” This no doubt was a tremendous encouragement to Paul.
He longed to see them face to face. He wanted to share with them what God had given him to help them grow and become stronger in their faith. He also wanted to be encouraged by their faith. This mutual encouragement was what to Paul would be the outcome of getting together. That’s why he longed to finally get together.
But many things kept him preoccupied, so he wasn’t free to go to Rome. Finally it looked like he might soon be free to do so. To prepare for such a meeting and possibly minister to them, if for some reason a visit would again be delayed, he wrote this epistle.
He wanted them to grasp something of his passion, his understanding of the gospel and his mission. He wanted to connect with them, firm up the bond they had in Christ, and partner with them in the grand task of reaching the lost world with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Teamwork is essential to get this task done.
Do you see yourself as a part of a team, working together to further God’s kingdom?
