Meaning of Romans 15:20

In Romans 15:20, Paul articulates his deliberate and fervent missionary strategy, which centered on evangelizing unreached territories rather than establishing churches in areas already influenced by the gospel. His ambition was not merely to preach, but to do so where Christ's name was entirely new, thus avoiding the practice of "building on another man's foundation." This principle highlights a distinct approach to gospel propagation, emphasizing pioneering work and a desire to bring the foundational message of salvation to those who had never heard it, thereby demonstrating his commitment to the expansive reach of the Christian message and his personal sense of calling.

Context and Background

The Apostle Paul, writing to the Roman church, is concluding a section of his letter that has addressed issues of unity within the diverse Christian community. He has spoken about the importance of mutual acceptance between Jewish and Gentile believers, emphasizing that Christ is the unifying center. In this concluding portion of chapter 15, Paul shifts to his personal ministry, explaining his mission and aspirations. He is preparing the Roman believers for his anticipated visit and seeks to assure them of his dedication to the gospel's spread. His mention of building on "another man's foundation" directly refers to the established work of other apostles, particularly those who had ministered in regions closer to Jerusalem.

Key Themes and Messages

• Pioneering Evangelism: The core message is Paul's dedication to reaching new frontiers with the gospel. This wasn't about avoiding existing work but about a strategic focus on the unreached.
• Respect for Prior Labor: The phrase "not building on another man's foundation" indicates a profound respect for the groundwork already laid by others. Paul did not seek to usurp their authority or disrupt established communities.
• The Expansive Nature of the Gospel: Paul's ambition underscores the universal scope of the gospel, which he believed needed to be proclaimed to every nation, tribe, and tongue.
• Personal Calling and Ambition: This verse reveals Paul's deep personal commitment and drive, not for personal glory, but for the advancement of Christ's kingdom.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, this verse calls for a similar missionary spirit. It encourages a proactive approach to sharing the gospel, not only within our immediate communities but also by considering those who have yet to hear the message of Christ. It prompts reflection on whether our evangelistic efforts are primarily focused on maintaining existing Christian communities or actively seeking to reach those who are spiritually uninitiated. The principle also suggests a healthy respect for the work of other ministries and denominations, encouraging collaboration and avoiding competition where possible, while still recognizing the mandate to reach the lost.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

Paul's ambition aligns with the Great Commission given by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20: "Go therefore 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 observe all that I have commanded you." This verse exemplifies the practical outworking of that commission by one of its most prominent apostles. It also echoes the Old Testament prophetic vision of God's salvation reaching all peoples, as seen in passages like Isaiah 49:6. Paul's ministry, as described here, is a tangible demonstration of God's redemptive plan unfolding across the Gentile world.

Analogies

One analogy for Paul's approach is that of an explorer charting unknown territories. Instead of settling in well-established settlements, he ventured into undeveloped lands to establish new outposts. Another analogy is that of a builder who, rather than adding rooms to an existing house, chooses to construct entirely new dwellings in areas where no homes exist. This emphasizes the foundational nature of his work – he was laying the first stones of Christ's church.

Relation to Other Verses

• 1 Corinthians 3:10-11: "According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and another builds upon it. But let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." This verse, also by Paul, directly addresses the concept of building on a foundation, reinforcing that Christ Himself is the only true foundation. Paul's ambition in Romans 15:20 is to lay this foundation where it hasn't been laid.
• 2 Corinthians 10:15-16: "We are not boasting beyond limits, that is, boasting of work done by others. But our hope is to increase as you grow in faith, and in accordance with our area of influence, to carry the gospel beyond you, so that we would not be boasting of work already done in another's field." This passage further clarifies Paul's missionary ethic, emphasizing his desire to expand the gospel's reach into new regions, not to intrude on the established ministries of others.
• Acts 1:8: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." This is Jesus' commission to His disciples, and Paul's actions in Romans 15:20 are a prime example of fulfilling the "end of the earth" aspect of this mandate.