Help in ministry

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Romans: The Gospel for God’s glory
Romans 15:22-33
Help in ministry
We help one another in ministry by praying and sharing in joyful fellowship

1) This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming to you, 15:22.
How eager has Paul been to get to Rome (see 1:10-13)? In light of 15:19-20, what is the reason Paul has been hindered in coming to them?

2) 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, 15:23.
In light of 15:19-20, how can Paul say he no longer has any room for work in these regions?

3) 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, 15:24.
What are the reasons Paul has wanted to visit the church in Rome? So why did Paul write such a long letter of deep theological exposition of the gospel?

4) At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints. 26 For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem, 15:25-26.
Why did Paul think it was so important to deliver the money to Jerusalem that he was willing to delay his trip to Rome? How did Paul relate gospel ministry and mercy ministry?

5) 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, 15:27.
What is the reason Paul said the Gentile churches “owed” this contribution to the Jewish believers? How could the Gentiles be “pleased” to contribute when it was an obligation?

6) When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you, I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ, 15:28-29.

7) I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf, 15:30.
Why do you think Paul so earnestly wanted their prayers? Do you have prayer concerns that you fervently pray for, and that you need others to strive in prayer with you for?

8) that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, 15:31.
Paul was “delivered” from Jewish unbelievers by being arrested, appealing to Caesar, and being brought to Rome under Roman custody. Why was he worried the Jewish Christians might not accept the contribution?

9) so that by God’s will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company. 33 May the God of peace be with you all. Amen, 15:32-33.
How can we refresh missionaries? How can we refresh and be refreshed by one another? In what is God the God of peace? What does this mean for us?