Doug’s Coffee Break

In this episode, we continue Paul’s personal greetings to his friends in the Roman church. He highlights Ampliatus, Urbanus, Stachys, and Apelles for their love, labor, and tested faith. Paul also greets believers within the households of Aristobulus and Narcissus—likely large, influential homes that included both family and servants. The episode showcases how God used people from diverse social and family backgrounds to build the early church.

In this episode, we continue Paul’s greetings to key figures in the Roman church. Mary is recognized for her tireless efforts, possibly identified as a Jewish believer. Paul also honors Andronicus and Junias, likely a husband-wife team, as "outstanding among the apostles" and his "fellow prisoners." They were early followers of Christ, coming to faith before Paul himself. This episode highlights the active role of men and women in ministry and the deep personal connections that shaped the early church.

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In this episode, we explore the start of Paul’s greetings to 26 individuals and others in the Roman church—the longest greeting list in his letters. He honors Priscilla and Aquila as faithful co-workers who risked their lives for him, noting that they also host a house church. 

In this episode, we meet Phoebe, a remarkable woman entrusted with delivering Paul’s letter to Rome. Described as a servant (diakonos) of the church in Cenchrea, Phoebe may have held a formal role similar to that of a deaconess. Paul urges the Roman believers to welcome and support her, recognizing her as a prostatis—a benefactor and protector—who had been a great help to many, including Paul himself. This episode sheds light on the essential role of women in the early church’s mission.

In this episode, we see Paul’s heartfelt request for prayer from the Roman Christians. He asks for protection from hostile unbelievers in Judea and for the successful delivery of aid to the saints in Jerusalem. Paul’s appeal highlights the power of intercessory prayer and how it allows believers to share in each other's ministry. He closes with a blessing from "the God of peace," calling for unity and spiritual refreshment among the believers.

In this episode, we follow Paul’s plans to visit Rome on his way to Spain. Though he eventually arrived in Rome, it wasn’t as he expected—he came as a prisoner (Acts 27–28). Paul's confidence in God's provision shines through, as he anticipates his visit will be marked by "the full measure of the blessing of Christ." This episode highlights Paul’s faith-filled approach to planning and his openness to God’s redirection.

In this episode, we explore Paul’s immediate mission: delivering financial aid to the poor in Jerusalem. While the offering from Macedonia and Achaia was voluntary, Paul highlights a deeper moral obligation—since Gentiles had shared in Jewish spiritual blessings, it was fitting for them to share material blessings in return. This act of generosity wasn’t just practical; it symbolized the unity of Jewish and Gentile Christians in one body.

In this episode, we follow Paul’s shift in ministry focus. With churches established in Asia Minor and Greece, Paul concludes there’s no more frontier work left there. His sights are now set on Spain—the western edge of the Roman Empire. On the way, he hopes to visit the Roman Christians, sharing fellowship, encouragement, and support for his next mission. This episode highlights Paul’s strategic vision for gospel expansion and his deep love for the church in Rome.

In this episode, we explore Paul’s philosophy of ministry: taking the gospel where Christ has never been preached. Citing Isaiah 52:15, Paul explains his commitment to planting new churches rather than building on others' work. We also discuss why this mission delayed his visit to Rome, as he prioritized unreached areas in Asia Minor and Greece. Paul's approach offers insight into the heart of a true gospel trailblazer.