Romans 15:20 (KJV)

What does Romans 15:20 mean?

Romans 15:20 describes how Paul made it his aim to preach the gospel in places where Christ was not yet known, so that he would not build on someone else’s foundation. Paul wanted to share the message of Jesus with people who had never heard it before, rather than working where others had already started.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Rome, explaining his approach to spreading the message about Jesus. He emphasizes that his mission is to go to new regions, not to take over or continue the work that other believers had already begun. This shows Paul’s desire to reach new people and his respect for the work of others.

The Greek behind Romans 15:20

• "strived" (φιλοτιμέομαι, philotimeomai): This Greek word means to be ambitious or to earnestly aspire to something. Paul’s use of it here shows that he saw preaching in new places as a personal calling and a matter of deep commitment.
• "foundation" (θεμέλιος, themelios): This word refers to the base or groundwork of a building. Paul uses it as a picture for the initial work of teaching about Christ in a new area, making clear he did not want to build on someone else’s groundwork.

Why Romans 15:20 matters

• Romans 15:20 clears up that Paul was not competing with other Christian workers, but was focused on reaching people who had not yet heard about Jesus.
• The verse highlights Paul’s pioneering spirit and his respect for the unique work God gave to each person.
• Understanding this verse helps explain why Paul often traveled to distant regions and why he sometimes avoided places where churches already existed.