Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.

ROMANS 15:19KJV
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Romans 15:19 (KJV)

What does Romans 15:19 mean?

Romans 15:19 means that Paul, empowered by God’s Spirit, performed powerful miracles and wonders as he spread the message of Jesus Christ, fully preaching the gospel from Jerusalem all the way to the region of Illyricum. The verse highlights how Paul’s ministry was marked by both supernatural acts and a wide geographic reach.

Paul is writing to believers in Rome, describing the scope and authenticity of his work as an apostle. He wants them to know that his message about Jesus was confirmed by visible signs and that he has faithfully carried out his mission across a vast area, from Jerusalem (in the east) to Illyricum (northwest of Greece), showing the seriousness and completeness of his efforts.

The Greek behind Romans 15:19

  • δύναμις (dynamis, G1411): This word, translated as "mighty" or "power," refers to strength or miraculous ability. Paul is emphasizing that the miracles and wonders he performed were not by his own strength, but by God’s power.
  • σημεῖα (sēmeia, G4592) and τέρατα (terata, G5059): These words mean "signs" and "wonders." In the New Testament, "signs" often point to God’s activity, while "wonders" describe acts that cause amazement. Paul uses both to show that his ministry was marked by clear evidence of God’s involvement.
  • πνεῦμα (pneuma, G4151): This is the word for "Spirit," referring here to the Spirit of God. Paul is clear that everything he accomplished was through the Holy Spirit’s power, not human effort.
  • εὐαγγέλιον (euangelion, G2098): This is the word for "gospel," meaning "good news." Paul is stressing that his entire mission was centered on sharing the message about Christ.

Why Romans 15:19 matters

  • Romans 15:19 clarifies that Paul’s ministry was not just about words or teaching, but was confirmed by miraculous acts that pointed to God’s power, giving credibility to his message.
  • The verse shows the wide area Paul covered, helping readers understand the dedication and reach of his mission, and why he could say he had "fully preached" the gospel in those regions.
  • This verse connects to Paul’s larger point in Romans 15, where he explains his calling to preach where Christ was not yet known, showing his commitment to spreading the gospel as far as possible.

Where else these words appear

“about” Greek G2945 · used in 7 verses

  • Mark 3:34 And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!
  • Mark 6:36 Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat.
  • Revelation 4:6 And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.

“wonders” Greek G5059 · used in 16 verses

  • Matthew 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.
  • Acts 2:43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
  • Acts 14:3 Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

“unto” Greek G3360 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 11:23 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.
  • Acts 20:7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.
  • 1 Timothy 6:14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:

“signs” Greek G4592 · used in 69 verses

  • Matthew 12:38 Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee.
  • Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
  • Acts 4:22 For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.