Romans 1 – question 6
An apparent repetition in Romans 1:8-12 and Romans 1:13-15, where Paul repeatedly expresses his desire to go to Rome, might seem like a « duplicate, » but it is possible to understand these verses as having distinct functions in the construction of Paul’s discourse. Here are some possible explanations based on literary, theological, and contextual considerations, as well as the views of some commentators.
1. Distinct Functions of the Two Passages
Although both passages express the same theme, Paul’s desire to visit Rome, they serve slightly different purposes within the epistle.
- Romans 1:8–12: Paul expresses his thanks to God for the Faith of the Romans, which is “proclaimed throughout the world,” and speaks of his desire to impart to them a spiritual gift to strengthen them. He introduces the idea of his journey as a way of mutually edifying each other’s Faith. This passage, therefore, has a more personal and spiritual dimension. Paul shows his attachment to the believers in Rome and emphasizes the mutually edifying aspect of their meeting.
- Romans 1:13–15: Here Paul takes a more missionary tone. He explains that he has often planned to come to Rome but has been prevented from doing so until now. He expresses his obligation to proclaim the Gospel to all, whether Greeks or barbarians, wise or ignorant. Paul emphasizes the universality of his apostolic mission and his desire to “gather some fruit” among the Romans, just as he did in other parts of the world. This passage has a more missionary and apostolic focus, emphasizing the universal reach of the Gospel and Paul’s commitment to fulfilling his role as an apostle sent to the Gentiles.
Thus, while both passages mention Paul’s desire to go to Rome, they do so in different settings:
- The first passage (vv. 8–12) emphasizes spiritual relationship and mutual support.
- The second passage (vv. 13–15) emphasizes Paul’s mission and the need to preach the gospel to all peoples.
2. Paul’s Rhetorical Intentions
Paul is a skilled communicator and often uses intentional repetition to reinforce a point or to create progression in his argument. Paul may use a rhetorical structure that appears repetitive but actually serves to build a more complete argument.
- In Romans 1:8-12, Paul seeks to establish a personal connection with the Christians in Rome. He did not found the church in Rome, and this may explain why he emphasizes his desire to come to them, emphasizing that their faith is known and recognized throughout the Roman Empire. In doing so, he wants to establish himself as a brother in Christ who desires to build them up spiritually.
- In Romans 1:13-15, he makes his missionary intentions clear. As an apostle to the Gentiles, he has a specific role in preaching the gospel to all peoples. He wants the believers in Rome to understand that his visit is not simply motivated by a personal or emotional desire, but that he is driven by his apostolic call.
3. Providential hindrance and thwarted desires
Paul mentions in Romans 1:13 that he often wanted to come to Rome but was prevented. Commentators have often pointed out that Paul sees this as a providential action of God, and not as a mere human obstacle. This could explain why he repeats his desire to come to Rome in different contexts:
- On the one hand, he wants to emphasize the spiritual importance of his visit.
- On the other hand, he wants to clarify that, despite his many plans to come to Rome, God has led him elsewhere for a time.
Paul could emphasize these points in order to dispel any misunderstanding among the Christians in Rome, who might wonder why the apostle to the Gentiles had not yet come to visit them. It is possible that Paul feels the need to justify his absences by explaining that it is not because of lack of interest, but because he has been led by God in other directions up to this point.
4. Commentators’ Views
Several commentators have addressed this issue of apparent repetition:
- John Stott, in his commentary on Romans, points out that Paul begins with personal thanks and a desire for spiritual edification (vv. 8–12) before moving on to an explanation of his broader missionary motivations (vv. 13–15). This shows that Paul sees the Christians in Rome not only as brothers in the faith, but also as an important part of his mission as an apostle.
- Douglas Moo, another great commentator on Romans, also sees these verses as a progression in Paul’s discourse. He notes that Paul uses these two sections to cover different aspects of his relationship with Rome: a spiritual and personal aspect, followed by an apostolic and missionary aspect.
- F.F. Bruce, in his classic commentary, points out that this apparent repetition is actually a way for Paul to clarify his intentions and establish a connection with the Christians in Rome. Paul had not founded the Church of Rome, and he may have felt the need to explain why he had not yet been able to visit this important community.
5. The Need for Emphasis
Paul may also use repetition as a way of emphasizing the importance he attaches to this visit. Knowing that this letter is the first formal communication with the Church of Rome, it is possible that he feels the need to repeat and reinforce his words so that his audience understands the urgency and sincerity of his desire to come and meet them.
Conclusion
Paul’s apparent repetition in Romans 1:8-12 and Romans 1:13-15 can be understood as a way of elaborating on different aspects of his desire to visit Rome. On the one hand, he expresses a spiritual desire to share and receive mutual encouragement. On the other hand, he speaks of his apostolic mandate, explaining his obligation to preach the gospel to all, including the Christians in Rome. This reflects both Paul’s humility and universal mission as an apostle to the Gentiles, and shows his deep commitment to believers, whether in Rome or elsewhere.