Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Romans 1:15

"So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you also that are in Rome." — Romans 1:15 (ASV)

Paul looks forward to his visit, but he also considers it an obligation. Why? He has already laid the groundwork for such a statement by acknowledging that he is Christ’s servant (v.1), who has been given a charge with taking the Gospel to all peoples (v.5). The phrase “Greeks and non-Greeks [Gk. barbaroi; GK 975]” refers to all non-Jewish members of the human race (cf. “Gentiles” in v.13), dividing them into two categories. It is probable that barbaroi refers mostly to the people in the territory west of Rome, where he hoped to go, though he would undoubtedly find representatives of both groups also in Rome.

The “wise” are not to be equated with the Greeks, for this would mean that non-Greeks are being dubbed “foolish,” which would be unwarranted. Rather, Paul seems to have in mind what he wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:18–31 (see comments). The wise are perishing in the midst of their worldly wisdom, and the foolish in their abject simplicity. Both need the Gospel.

How heartwarming is the apostle’s attitude toward his obligation! Instead of considering it a burden he must bear, a duty he must carry out, he is “eager” to fulfill it. While success in preaching demands the finest intellectual and formal preparation, it also requires great zeal.