Romans 1:11-13

As Paul had prayed often for the Romans, so he had also planned often to visit them. The phrase "I do not want you to be unaware" always identifies something important that Paul proceeded to say (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:1; 1 Corinthians 12:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:13). His reason was for fellowship, namely, mutual sharing of things profitable. One obstacle that may have prevented Paul from reaching Rome previously was the imperial edict of A.D. 49 expelling Jews from Rome (cf. Acts 18:2). [Note: See Bruce, p. 16.] Paul mentioned his contribution to the Romans first (Romans 1:11) and theirs to him last (Romans 1:13), and he stressed reciprocity in between (Romans 1:12). The spiritual gift (Romans 1:11) was probably not one specific gift but anything and everything of spiritual benefit (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:1). In 1 Corinthians 12:1 he mentioned specific gifts (plural). We should also probably interpret the fruit he hoped to obtain (Romans 1:13) broadly rather than specifically as the fruit of his evangelism among them or financial support.