Praying For What's Truly Important!

“This is the reason I was often hindered from coming to you. But now there is nothing more to keep me in these regions, and I have for many years desired to come to you when I go to Spain. For I hope to visit you when I pass through and that you will help me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while. But now I go to Jerusalem to minister to the saints. For Macedonia and Achaia are pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem. For they were pleased to do this, and indeed they are indebted to the Jerusalem saints. For if the Gentiles have shared in their spiritual things, they are obligated also to minister to them in material things.” Romans 15:22-27 NET

Paul’s unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel, illuminated by the guiding light of the Holy Spirit, has emerged as a beacon of inspiration for countless Christians. His heartfelt journey to the picturesque landscapes of Croatia exemplifies this dedication; he embarked on this mission with a profound desire to share the transformative message of Jesus Christ with those who were spiritually and materially impoverished. Having successfully fulfilled his calling in these remote, often overlooked communities, Paul now harbors an earnest longing to travel to the revered city of Rome. There, he aims to uplift and encourage the Saints, believing that this visit is crucial before he embarks on his ambitious journey to Spain, which he perceives as the crowning achievement of his missionary endeavors.

In Paul’s worldview, Spain epitomized the farthest reaches of the known world, making it an enticing and vital destination for his mission to disseminate the Gospel. Despite his roots in Jewish tradition, his in-depth education in Greek philosophy and culture enriched his understanding of the diversity of human experience. This unique combination greatly enhanced his ability to communicate with varied audiences, allowing him to forge meaningful connections with both Jewish communities and Gentile believers alike. This intellectual and cultural adaptability underscores the profound potential impact of his mission to bridge seemingly insurmountable cultural divides.

While the New Testament does not unequivocally substantiate that Paul ever set foot in Spain, historical accounts suggest his longing to reach this enchanting region was genuine and fervent. Scholars point to compelling evidence, such as a poignant reference from Clement of Rome, an esteemed early Christian leader, who noted that Paul had reached “the limit of the west,” a phrase that likely included the alluring landscapes of Spain. Moreover, renowned church fathers such as John Chrysostom and Jerome echoed this belief, asserting that Paul had, in fact, ventured to the Iberian Peninsula during his extensive missionary journeys, reinforcing this cherished notion within early Christian tradition.

Remarkably, during the early 60s AD, a significant gap emerges in the records of Paul’s travels, perfectly aligning with the period of his expressed intention to visit Spain. Various Spanish traditions assert that Paul preached the Gospel across several captivating locations throughout the country, including the ancient city of Tarragona, situated in modern-day Catalonia on the north-eastern coast of Spain. Known for its rich Roman heritage, Tarragona served as a vibrant hub for early Christian outreach and offered a fertile ground for spreading the message of Christ.

Additionally, the Muratorian Canon (or fragment), a pivotal early compilation of New Testament texts recognized as authoritative by early Christians, contains a notable reference to Paul’s journey to Spain. This inclusion reinforces the idea that his missionary efforts extended into this diverse region and emphasizes his relentless commitment to sharing the message of Christ with every corner of the known world.

Now, inspired by a mission of unity among believers, Paul sets his course for Jerusalem, a city steeped in historical significance as the epicenter of the early church where the movement of Christianity first took root. He carries a substantial financial contribution that he has diligently collected from various Gentile churches across Asia Minor and Greece. This generous gift symbolizes the heartfelt support, unwavering solidarity, and commitment of these churches to aid the impoverished Jewish believers in Jerusalem, who often struggle to meet their basic needs amidst the harsh challenges of daily life.

The Saints in Greece were eager to partake in this noble initiative, recognizing their profound connection with their fellow believers in Jerusalem. They understood that the spiritual blessings and insights they had received from their Jerusalem counterparts compelled them to engage in this reciprocal obligation of support. This sense of duty was particularly evocative, emphasizing the unity and mutual dependence that defined the early Christian communities, irrespective of their varied cultural or ethnic backgrounds. By contributing to the needs of the Jerusalem saints, the Gentile believers manifested their heartfelt gratitude and reinforced the enduring bonds of fellowship central to their shared faith.

Although this journey to Jerusalem represents a detour from Paul’s initially planned trip to Rome, he views it as an essential act of service and obedience to God’s calling. Fully aware of the myriad challenges and potential dangers that await him in Jerusalem—particularly given the rising tensions between Jews and Gentiles during that tumultuous period—he humbly implores the Roman Christians to pray earnestly for his safety throughout this journey and for the acceptance of his ministry among the Jerusalem church. Paul’s heartfelt plea for prayer highlights his profound humility. It reinforces the interconnected nature of the early Christian community as they navigate their faith journeys together with Paul, united in their mission to spread love and hope across the known world.

Stephen Barnett