Romans 1:13

Berean Standard Bible
I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, how often I planned to come to you (but have been prevented from visiting until now), in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles.
King James Bible
Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.
 
New English Translation
I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that I often intended to come to you (and was prevented until now), so that I may have some fruit even among you, just as I already have among the rest of the Gentiles.
 
Greek Text:
οὐ θέλω δὲ ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν, ἀδελφοί, ὅτι πολλάκις προεθέμην ἐλθεῖν πρὸς ὑμᾶς, καὶ ἐκωλύθην ἄχρι τοῦ δεῦρο, ἵνα τινὰ καρπὸν σχῶ καὶ ἐν ὑμῖν καθὼς καὶ ἐν τοῖς λοιποῖς ἔθνεσιν.
 
Transliteration:
ou thelō de humas agnoein, adelphoi, hoti pollakis proethemēn elthein pros humas, kai ekōluthēn achri tou deuro, hina tina karpon schō kai en humin kathōs kai en tois loipois ethnesin.
 
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Study Bible:
 
I do not want you to be unaware, brothers
The Apostle Paul begins this verse with a phrase that underscores his desire for transparency and communication with the Roman believers. The Greek word for "unaware" is "agnoeō," which implies a lack of knowledge or understanding. Paul uses this phrase to emphasize the importance of his message and to ensure that the Roman Christians are fully informed of his intentions. The term "brothers" (Greek: "adelphoi") is a term of endearment and solidarity, indicating the familial bond shared among believers in Christ. This reflects the early Christian understanding of the church as a family united by faith.
 
how often I planned to come to you
Paul's repeated planning to visit Rome highlights his deep commitment and desire to minister to the believers there. The Greek word for "planned" is "prothesis," which conveys a sense of intentionality and purpose. This reveals Paul's strategic approach to his missionary work, as he sought to spread the Gospel and strengthen the church. Historically, Rome was a significant center of power and influence, making it a crucial location for the spread of Christianity. Paul's intention to visit reflects his understanding of the importance of establishing a strong Christian presence in the heart of the Roman Empire.
 
(but have been prevented from visiting until now)
The parenthetical statement indicates that despite Paul's intentions, he faced obstacles that prevented his journey. The Greek word for "prevented" is "kolyō," which means to hinder or restrain. This suggests that Paul encountered external circumstances beyond his control, possibly including political, spiritual, or logistical challenges. This acknowledgment of divine providence and human limitation is a recurring theme in Paul's writings, reminding believers of the sovereignty of God in guiding the course of their lives and ministries.
 
in order that I might have a harvest among you
Paul uses the metaphor of a "harvest" to describe the spiritual fruit he hopes to reap among the Roman believers. The Greek word "karpos" refers to fruit or produce, symbolizing the results of evangelistic and pastoral efforts. This imagery is consistent with biblical themes of sowing and reaping, as seen in passages like Galatians 6:9. Paul's desire for a harvest reflects his hope for spiritual growth, conversion, and the strengthening of the church in Rome. It underscores the apostolic mission to bear fruit for the Kingdom of God.
 
just as I have had among the other Gentiles
Paul concludes by referencing his previous successes among the Gentiles, affirming his role as the apostle to the Gentiles (Romans 11:13). The term "Gentiles" (Greek: "ethnē") refers to non-Jewish peoples, highlighting the inclusive nature of the Gospel message. Paul's ministry among the Gentiles was marked by significant growth and the establishment of numerous churches, as documented in the Book of Acts. This statement serves to encourage the Roman believers by reminding them of the transformative power of the Gospel and the potential for similar outcomes in their own community. It also reinforces the universal scope of the Christian mission, transcending ethnic and cultural boundaries.
 
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Commentary:
 
Context: Paul is addressing the Christian community in Rome. At this point in the letter, he's expressing his long-standing desire to visit the church in Rome.
 
"I do not want you to be unaware": This phrase is a common way for Paul to introduce something he considers important. It's a way to ensure the readers pay attention to what follows.
 
"Brothers and sisters": Paul often uses this familial term to express his spiritual kinship with other Christians, emphasizing unity and affection.
 
"I planned many times to come to you": This indicates Paul's earnest intent to visit Rome. His desire wasn't just a passing thought but something he had considered repeatedly.
 
"But have been prevented from doing so until now": This part suggests that external circumstances or divine intervention might have stopped him. The exact reasons are not specified here but could include missionary work elsewhere, opposition from adversaries, or God's timing.
 
"In order that I might have a harvest among you": Paul uses agricultural imagery to describe his missionary work. "Harvest" here metaphorically refers to the spiritual fruit of converts or the strengthening of faith among believers. He hopes to see similar success in Rome as he has among other Gentile (non-Jewish) communities.
 
"Just as I have had among the other Gentiles": This confirms Paul's mission was not just to the Jews but also to the Gentiles, which was somewhat revolutionary at the time, broadening the scope of Christian outreach.
 
In summary, Romans 1:13 reflects Paul's pastoral care, his strategic intent in spreading the Christian faith, and his acknowledgment of the delays and obstacles in his missionary travels. It sets the stage for further discussions in his letter about his ministry, the Gospel, and his relationship with the Roman church.