Romans 1:12
that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.
Truth to Learn
The Apostle Paul needed comforting at times as we all do.
Behind the Words
“That is” is translated from the Greek touto de estin. Literally, this would be translated as “and this is.” This phrase implies not just an explanatory repetition of the previous phrase but a delicate characterization of why Paul wants to share a spiritual gift with them.
The words “encouraged together” are a translation of the Greek word sumparaklethenai, which is made up of sun, meaning “together” and a form of parekaleo, which is a verb meaning “to call alongside as a counselor or a comforter.”
Meaning Explained
This verse explains why Paul wanted to visit Rome and the Christians there and why he wanted to share with them a gift of spiritual truths. He wanted to see them more firmly established in their faith, and he wanted to jointly be comforted with them. It is clear from the grammatical construction that Paul was not chastising them for needing more spiritual gifts. He knew that these people were living in the midst of a pagan society that was so focused on national expansion and the riches that it brought that they were in need of the truth of God’s word. In the middle of this type of sensual and indulgent living, the Roman Christians had shown themselves to be of remarkable faith in pursuing their Savior, but it was not easy any more than it is easy to be a Christian in today’s western society. They needed some encouraging and comforting as did Paul.
This may come as a surprise to some of you, but the Apostle Paul needed to be comforted and encouraged. Sure, he was a giant of the faith (though apparently short in stature). Sure, he could perform miracles. Sure, he had an understanding of spiritual truths with a clarity that few men of the time had and that few have had since, but the apostle also had a sin nature like you and I do. He will even explain some of his inner struggles with that sin nature later in this letter. He needed to be with other Christians, and he needed to be comforted.
As Christians, we all need comforting at times. God knows this and has sent us a special comforter, the Holy Spirit. Jesus even referred to Him as our parakaletos, our comforter:
And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, so that He may be with you forever, (John 14:16)
But the Comforter, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatever I have said to you. (John 14:26)
Application
The next time you are inspired by a sermon or a word of encouragement from someone you look up to spiritually, remember that they need encouragement and comforting too. But they may be so busy encouraging and comforting others that they don’t recognize that need in themselves. This week why not encourage and comfort someone who has blessed you.
In God’s service, for His glory,
Copyright © 2009 Will Krause. All rights reserved.
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