Romans 15:19: In mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God, so that from Jerusalem and round about to Illyricum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.
“Through mighty signs and wonders,” which were the credentials of the apostles and the ministers in the early church. These were given to establish the church on the right foundation before a word of the New Testament had been written. Paul, speaking to the Ephesian believers, says that they “… are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone” (Eph. 2:20). He does not intend to say that the apostles are the foundation. There is no foundation but Christ: “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 3:11). But the apostles are the ones who put down the foundation of Jesus Christ. That is what Paul is saying here. 1
Application
- What mighty sign has Jesus done for you? Start by explaining the circumstances that brought about your salvation.
- Paul said he fully preached the gospel. Who’s heart is God preparing for you to present the gospel to? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you fulfill this work that God is calling you to do.
Prayer
Lord, help me to present the gospel to my family and friends.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (Romans 9-16) (electronic ed., Vol. 43). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.