Romans 15:17 - Exposition

I have therefore whereof I may glory through (rather, I have my boasting in ) Christ Jesus in the things that pertain unto God ( τὰ πρὸς θεόν —the same phrase as is used in Hebrews 5:1 with reference to priestly service). St. Paul's purpose in this and the four following verses is to allege proof of his being a true apostle with a right to speak with authority to the Gentiles. It is evident, he says, from the extent and success of my apostolic labours, and the power of God that has accompanied them. So also, still more earnestly and at length, in 2 Corinthians 11:1-33 . and 12. As to his reason for frequently thus insisting on his true apostleship, and for asserting it in writing to the Romans, see note on Romans 1:1 .