02.03. II. The Introduction (Rom_1:8-17).

II. The Introduction (Rom 1:8-17).

1. First, I thank my God, etc., (Rom 1:8). It is the Spirit’s way to first of all point out things to be commended; and this is true even in the case of epistles containing much severe censure, as, for example, 1st Corinthians. The occasion for thanksgiving in the case before us is that the Roman Christians were widely known for their faith. That was surely something for which to be thankful. If the faith is held pure, the works will be forthcoming.

2. I long to see you (Rom 1:11). There were those who declared that Paul had neither desire nor intention to visit Rome. His message, they said, might do well enough for the provinces, but it would never do in Rome. Rome was too well informed, too cultured, too sophisticated, to be caught with such a message! But Paul here expresses a sincere longing to come to Rome.

3. I purposed to come unto you and was hindered hitherto (Rom 1:13, R. V.). In a similar passage (1Th 2:18), Paul had declared that he had been hindered by Satan from visiting Thessalonica; doubtless that is his meaning here (compare also Rom 15:22).

4. I am debtor (Rom 1:14). To be sure! And so • is every Christian a debtor, to give the gospel to the whole world as rapidly as possible.

5. I am ready (Rom 1:15). That is a splendid companion-piece to the I am debtor.

6. I am not ashamed (Rom 1:16-17). No one can be ashamed of the gospel, though it is natural to be ashamed of some things that pass for the gospel. Paul was not ashamed,

(1) Because of the nature of the gospel: it is the power of God. It is unthinkable that any man should be ashamed of power—least of all, God’s power; and the gospel is just that: God’s power. Again, Paul was not ashamed,

(2) Because of the aim of the gospel: it is unto salvation. And it always brings salvation —from the penalty, from the power, and finally from the very presence of sin—wherever it is received. Moreover, Paul was not ashamed,

(3) Because of the scope of the gospel: it is to everyone that believeth.” No one is barred; whosoever will may come. Further, Paul was not ashamed,

(4) Because of the sole condition attached to the gospel: it brings salvation to everyone that believeth. This is all worked out in detail further on in the epistle. Finally, Paul was not ashamed,

(5) Because of the revelation of the gospel: For therein is the righteousness of God revealed. This gospel revelation of God’s righteousness, bestowed as a gift to men of faith, is all worked out in its proper place further on. Here it is mentioned as the fulfilment of an Old Testament prophecy: The just shall live by faith (Hab 2:4), and perhaps also to mark the sharp contrast between this gracious gospel revelation and the terrible revelation of God’s wrath so vividly described in the language that follows.