15:30
Paul was the great apostle, the one through whom God broke into Europe and Asia Minor with the gospel. He preached fearlessly and effectively, and with love. Even so he knew he needed the prayers of others, he knew he was just part of the body. If we become proud we will very quickly find that the anointing and power of God leaves us, but if we remain humble, trusting in God and working together with our brothers and sisters in Christ then the blessing of God will truly be upon our lives. Notice that Paul also says it is a struggle. There is a battle to be fought, and prayer is a primary means of connecting with all the power of heaven.
15:31-33
Paul knew that he faced danger in Jerusalem. Others tried to dissuade him because of this, but Paul knew the purposes of God so was prepared to encounter the danger. However, this did not make him oblivious to it, or paying no heed to the danger. Instead he asked them to pray that he would be kept safe. He also prayed that the contribution would received in the right spirit. There were tensions between the Jewish and Gentile Christians, and in such situations it is all too easy for people to take offence, and has been wisely said, more offence is taken than is ever given. So Paul asks them to pray about the matter. Again we see him facing up to the realities of the situation. Then Paul would be safe and be able to finally visit the Roman church.
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