Romans 1:15: So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also.
Paul has said that he is a debtor; now he says he is ready to pay. In other words, Paul says, “My side is ready.” In The Epistle to the Romans Dr. James Stifler writes, “He is a master of his purpose, but not of his circumstances.” He is not only ready, he is eager to preach it. Oh, how we need that enthusiasm and high anticipation of getting out the Word of God! 1
Two different Greek words are translated “ready” in the King James Version. One means “prepared,” the other means “eager, with a ready mind.” Paul was not eager to die, though he was prepared to die. But he was eager to visit Rome that he might minister to the believers there. It was not the eagerness of a sightseer, but the eagerness of a soul-winner. 2
Application
- Would you be ready to present the Gospel to a close family member or friend today?
- When was the last time you shared your love for Jesus with another person?
Prayer
Lord, make me ready and willing to talk daily about You. Forgive me for my hesitation.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (Romans 1-8) (electronic ed., Vol. 42). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
2. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
