Introduction

…Those who were not told about Him will see, and those who have not heard will
understand. Romans 15:21

  When we get into the closing section of Paul’s letter to the Romans, it becomes clear that Paul
not only was not the founder of the church there, but more than likely, he did not even know any of its
membership. He had heard of their faithfulness, and as a preacher of the gospel, he wanted to make
certain that they were fully aware of all the doctrines of the faith. He sent the letter that is now commonly
known as The New Testament “Book of Romans” in care of a godly emissary named Phoebe, in hopes
that it would be graciously received by the church. Paul doesn’t rebuke the church at Rome for any
cause, but rather, he praises it for its faithfulness and sound doctrine. His purpose in writing was to
formally introduce himself to the congregants through Phoebe, in hopes that one day he would be able to
visit them personally. Paul, like any brother in Christ, longed for the fellowship of other Believers.
  In Romans 15:14-15, Paul actually offers an apology for coming on so strong in his letter. He
doesn’t want the church to think that he is critiquing them, but rather, he feels that it is his obligation to
make sure that the church there has been established upon sound doctrine. This is why the book of
Romans is so completely saturated with the tenants of the Christian faith. We today, can be thankful that
Paul felt compelled to write such a letter to the church at Rome, for it has become a lasting treasure to
those who have come to faith in Jesus Christ. Romans is the very essence of our faith consolidated into
one wondrous document. The Spirit of God knew full well what He was doing when He compelled Paul to
write this letter, even though Paul himself could not have possibly known that it would be handed down
from generation to generation of Believers all around the world! We serve an amazing God indeed!
  In his closing remarks to the Romans, Paul gives us some personal insight into the very heart of
this faithful missionary. He, of all men, lived up to his full potential as an ambassador of Christ. He is an
example for us all by his zeal to share the gospel with those who have not heard. We would do well to
emulate him in this, for I do believe that the time is short and The Day of The LORD is at hand. Paul was
a man on a mission, and he tirelessly pursued those who were lost without hope. He was the
embodiment The LORD’S great commission:

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 everything I
have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
Matthew 28:19-20