But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.

ROMANS 15:25KJV
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Romans 15:25 (KJV)

What does Romans 15:25 mean?

Romans 15:25 means that Paul is telling his readers he is about to travel to Jerusalem in order to serve and help the believers there. Paul’s purpose for this trip is to provide practical support to fellow Christians, whom he calls “saints.”

Paul is writing to the Christians in Rome and explaining his current plans. At this point in his letter, Paul wants the Roman believers to know that before he can visit them, he must first go to Jerusalem to deliver aid to the church there. The verse highlights Paul’s sense of responsibility and care for other believers, especially those in need.

The Greek behind Romans 15:25

  • διακονέω (diakoneō, “minister”): This Greek word is often used for serving or providing practical help, not just spiritual ministry. Here, it shows Paul is going to Jerusalem to meet real, material needs among the believers.
  • ἅγιοι (hagioi, “saints”): This word literally means “holy ones” and is commonly used in the New Testament to refer to all Christians, not just a special group. Paul is emphasizing that he is serving the whole community of believers in Jerusalem.

Why Romans 15:25 matters

  • Romans 15:25 clarifies that Paul’s ministry included practical acts of service, not just preaching or teaching.
  • The verse connects Paul’s travel plans to his larger mission of supporting the unity and well-being of the early church, especially between Gentile and Jewish believers.
  • Understanding this verse helps explain why Paul’s visit to Rome was delayed, showing his priorities and commitments to the wider Christian community.

Where else these words appear

“now” Greek G3570 · used in 21 verses

  • Romans 3:21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;
  • 1 Corinthians 12:18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
  • Colossians 1:21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled

“minister” Greek G1247 · used in 32 verses

  • Matthew 4:11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
  • Luke 8:3 And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.
  • 2 Corinthians 3:3 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.

“Jerusalem” Greek G2419 · used in 80 verses

  • Matthew 23:37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!
  • Luke 24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
  • Acts 15:4 And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.

“go” Greek G4198 · used in 147 verses

  • Matthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
  • Luke 9:52 And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him.
  • Acts 5:41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.