Grace, Not Power: Paul’s Apostolic Heart for the Church
Romans 1:11-12 | A Dispensational Teaching Post
“For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.” —Romans 1:11-12 (KJV)
Paul’s longing to see the Roman believers was both pastoral and doctrinal in nature. Paul had not yet been to Rome. He had not yet met these believers in person. Though his longing included mutual fellowship, his primary desire was to bring the grace doctrine to them—to see them firmly established in the gospel committed to his trust. His desire to visit was driven by love for the saints and a divine urgency to strengthen them through teaching, so they might stand mature and unwavering in Christ.
What Is Paul Really Saying?
- “I long to see you”: This is not casual. It’s a deep yearning, showing Paul’s affection and spiritual concern.
- “That I may impart unto you some spiritual gift”: Paul isn’t claiming to distribute gifts arbitrarily. He’s likely referring to teaching, encouragement, or apostolic insight that would strengthen their walk.
- “To the end ye may be established”: His goal is spiritual stability—not emotional hype or temporary excitement, but rootedness in truth.
- “That is, that I may be comforted together with you”: Paul clarifies—this isn’t one-sided. He expects mutual encouragement through shared faith.
- “By the mutual faith both of you and me”: He’s not above them. He’s beside them. Their faith comforts him just as his comforts them. The phrase “mutual faith” reminds us that faith isn’t private—it’s communal. We draw strength from each other’s trust in Christ.
This is a model of spiritual fellowship: not hierarchical, but reciprocal.
