Meaning of Romans 1:11

This verse, spoken by the Apostle Paul to the Roman believers, expresses his deep yearning to visit them and bestow upon them a spiritual gift. The Greek word translated as "impart" (metadidōmi) suggests a generous and voluntary giving, not a forced bestowal. Paul's desire is not merely to share information but to actively equip them with a tangible spiritual enablement that will solidify their faith and strengthen their Christian walk. This implies that spiritual gifts are not solely for the giver's benefit but are intended for the edification and strengthening of others within the community of faith.

Context and Background

Paul wrote the Epistle to the Romans from Corinth around 57 AD. He had not yet visited Rome, and this letter serves as a comprehensive theological treatise laying out the foundational doctrines of Christianity, particularly justification by faith. His longing to see the Roman church, mentioned here, highlights his pastoral heart and his strategic approach to ministry, aiming to nurture and build up existing congregations. The Roman church was a diverse community, likely comprised of both Jewish and Gentile believers, and Paul's intention to impart a spiritual gift suggests a need for unity and mutual strengthening within this blend.

Key Themes and Messages

• Pastoral Longing: Paul's intense desire to see the believers underscores the importance of personal connection and spiritual leadership in nurturing faith.
• Spiritual Gifting: The concept of "spiritual gift" (charisma) is central. These are divine endowments given by the Holy Spirit for the building up of the church.
• Strengthening and Edification: The purpose of these gifts is explicitly stated: "to make you strong" (sterixthenai). This refers to establishing, confirming, and fortifying believers in their faith.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This verse speaks to the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the church. It affirms that God continues to equip believers with supernatural abilities for service and mutual encouragement. The implication is that spiritual gifts are not relics of the apostolic age but are vital for the health and growth of the church today. Believers are encouraged to discern and utilize the gifts God has given them, understanding that their purpose is to strengthen the body of Christ and to make each member more resilient in their walk with God.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The impartation of spiritual gifts finds its roots in the Old Testament, where individuals were empowered by the Spirit for specific tasks (e.g., Bezaleel in Exodus 31:1-5). In the New Testament, Jesus promised the coming of the Holy Spirit who would empower his followers (John 14:26, Acts 1:8). Paul's writings, particularly in 1 Corinthians 12-14 and Romans 12, elaborate extensively on the nature, purpose, and diversity of these spiritual gifts within the church. Romans 1:11 fits within this larger framework of God's consistent provision of enablement for His people to fulfill His purposes.

Analogies

One analogy for this verse is a master craftsman visiting an apprentice's workshop. The master, possessing advanced skills and specialized tools, longs to share his expertise and provide the apprentice with the specific instruments needed to excel in their craft and produce more refined work. Similarly, Paul, as an apostle with deep spiritual understanding and experience, desires to provide the Roman believers with a spiritual "tool" or "skill" that will enhance their capacity for Christian living and service. Another analogy is a seasoned general visiting a unit of soldiers before a crucial battle; the general's aim is to impart strategic knowledge and perhaps even specialized equipment to ensure their victory and survival.

Relation to Other Verses

• 1 Corinthians 12:1: "Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed." This verse directly addresses the topic of spiritual gifts, indicating their importance and the need for understanding.
• Ephesians 4:11-12: "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ." This passage echoes the purpose of spiritual gifting as outlined by Paul in Romans, emphasizing equipping and edification.
• 1 Peter 4:10: "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." This verse reinforces the idea that gifts are given for service to others and are a manifestation of God's grace.
• Hebrews 6:1: "Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith in God..." The desire to "make you strong" in Romans 1:11 aligns with the broader biblical call to move beyond foundational teachings toward spiritual maturity.