Romans 15:14 I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another.
Paul writes that he has confidence in the Roman Christians. As the next chapter indicates, he knows a lot of people there already. Rome seems to have been a gathering place for many of the early Christians, which may be why it later became a center for Western Christianity. Paul thinks that the readers will understand and respond appropriately to his letter. He sees three qualities in them and their potential response. First, they are full of goodness. This is one of the qualities of God and a fruit that the Holy Spirit produces in believers. Goodness can be seen in the life that is righteous and holy and responds with love to others. This type of person joyfully follows the truth that is found in Jesus. It is the quality that makes difficult situations livable. Second, the readers are filled with all knowledge. This does not mean they are smart or geniuses but know the truth of the gospel and have come to know the depths of God’s love in Christ. They are now aware of the problems and traps of sin. The Holy Spirit has been renewing and transforming their minds so that they think like Jesus. They are able to discern and follow God’s will for them. Finally, they are able to instruct on another. Because of their goodness and knowledge, they are role models and mentors to one another. They can look at one another and see Jesus there. The Holy Spirit enables them to prophesy and proclaim the gospel to one another. These are three significant spiritual qualities that would strengthen any church and help them be effective in their mission.
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