Romans 15:22-23

Learning the Way - Romans 15:22-33

This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming to you. But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to come to you, I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while.

Romans 15:23-24

Paul has longed to come to the Romans for years, but has been unable because of his commitment to spreading the gospel. Can you relate to this? Are there things you can point to and say, "I've wanted to do this, but my commitment to the gospel has meant I haven't been able to."

At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints. For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.

Romans 15:25-27

The unity that is shown in this passage is remarkable. Here we have Gentile believers collecting money to send back to the saints at Jerusalem. These are groups of people that never would have interacted outside of the gospel. What is your attitude towards other churches here in Lake City?

I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.

Romans 15:29

In the Message we heard this: “And so we know that the fullness of the blessing of Christ comes not when we're taking but when we're giving. Our giving is what fundamentally defines us.”

Talk with your group about the phrase "the fullness of the blessing of Christ" means. When was the last time you experienced a feeling like this? How would your giving define you?