New Testament

Romans 1:13

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Paul expresses his desire to visit the Roman believers.

Author: Paul the apostle
Written: Around AD 57
Genre: Letter (epistle)
Original Audience: Christians in Rome

CBTClear Bible Translation

I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that I have often planned to come to you, but have been prevented until now, so that I might have some fruit among you as well, just as among the other Gentiles.

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Paul expresses his desire to visit the Roman believers. He emphasizes that he has made plans to come to them multiple times but has been unable to do so for various reasons. His intention is to share the gospel and see spiritual growth, or 'fruit,' among them, similar to what he has experienced with other Gentile communities. This highlights Paul's commitment to spreading the message of Christ and his longing for fellowship with the believers in Rome. He wants them to know that his absence is not due to a lack of interest or care, but rather circumstances beyond his control. This verse sets the stage for the deeper theological discussions that will follow in the letter, as Paul seeks to connect with the Roman church and encourage them in their faith. Explore related patience.

Key themes

Divine timing

Related Bible verses

How to apply Romans 1:13 to your life

We can learn from Paul's example of perseverance in pursuing relationships and spiritual growth. Even when plans change, we should remain committed to our goals and seek ways to connect with others in faith. Trusting God's timing is essential in our endeavors.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 1:13 mean?

In Romans 1:13, Paul shares his desire to visit the Roman believers, explaining that he has tried to come to them multiple times but has been unable to due to circumstances. He wants to see spiritual growth among them, similar to what he has experienced with other Gentiles.

What is the meaning of 'fruit' in Romans 1:13?

The 'fruit' in Romans 1:13 refers to the spiritual growth and positive outcomes that come from sharing the gospel and building relationships in faith. Paul hopes to see the same kind of spiritual development in the Roman church as he has witnessed in other communities.

What themes are present in Romans 1:13?

Key themes in Romans 1:13 include the desire for fellowship, the importance of spiritual fruit, the concept of divine timing, the inclusion of Gentiles in the faith, and Paul's missionary intent to spread the gospel.

Book Summary

The Book of Romans

Romans 1: Paul's Greeting and the Wrath of God Against Ungodliness

Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and separated to preach the gospel of God. He says this gospel concerns God's Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is made of the seed of David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that through Christ he receives grace and apostleship to bring about obedience of faith among all nations. He addresses the believers in Rome as those loved by God and called to be saints, and he gives thanks for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the whole world. He tells them he prays continually to visit them and longs to see them so he may share a spiritual gift and be comforted together with them by mutual faith.

Paul says he is ready to preach the gospel in Rome and declares he is not ashamed of it, because it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. He states that the righteousness of God is revealed in the gospel from faith to faith. He then describes the wrath of God revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth. He says people know God through creation, yet they do not glorify him as God. Their thinking becomes empty, and their foolish heart is darkened. They exchange the glory of the incorruptible God for images of corruptible creatures. God gives them over to uncleanness, dishonorable passions, and a reprobate mind. They fill themselves with all manner of unrighteousness and continue in these things while approving others who do the same. Romans 2: God's Righteous Judgment Paul addresses a person who judges others and says that anyone who judges commits the same kinds of sins. He warns that God's judgment is according to truth and that those who continue in evil will not escape. He explains that God will render to every man according to his deeds: eternal life to those who continue in well-doing, and indignation and wrath to those who obey unrighteousness. He says there is no respect of persons with God. Gentiles who sin without the law perish without the law, and Jews who sin under the law are judged by the law.

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