Romans 15:20 Meaning and Explanation
“Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man’s foundation:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul has made it his aim to preach where Christ was unknown, rather than building on another's foundation.
What Does Romans 15:20 Mean?
Paul reveals the guiding ambition of his work: to go where Christ had not yet been named. He strove to be a pioneer, breaking new ground rather than laboring where others had already planted.
His reason was a careful courtesy — 'lest I should build upon another man's foundation.' He had no wish to take over another's field or claim another's converts. There was always more frontier ahead, more peoples who had never heard. This holy ambition drove Paul ever outward, toward the unreached and the unnamed. It speaks of a heart restless for those still in darkness, content to lay foundations and move on, trusting others to build. The edges of the map were his calling.
Romans 15:20 in the Original Language
philotimeomai (φιλοτιμέομαι), 'strived' -- to make it one's ambition, to aspire eagerly as to an honor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 15:20
What does Romans 15:20 mean?
Paul has made it his aim to preach where Christ was unknown, rather than building on another's foundation.