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Romans Commentary Chapters 9-16  /  Romans 15:15-21 Paul’s Ministry to the Gentiles  /  Discussion Questions
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Question 10
Paul “striven” to preach “not where Christ was named” so he wouldn’t “build upon another man’s foundation,” and Origen warns against taking another’s glory; what motives does this expose in Christian work today (competition, credit, brand-building), and how would your ministry decisions change if you feared stealing glory more than missing opportunities?
Another way to ask: Paul wanted to preach where Christ was not yet known so he wouldn’t build on someone else’s work, and Origen warns about taking someone else’s glory. What wrong motives does this reveal in Christian work today, and how would your choices change if you feared stealing credit more than missing a chance?

Direct Answer The transcript suggests Paul avoided places already evangelized to avoid the appearance of seeking glory or taking credit for another’s work. That exposes motives like competition and credit-seeking, and it would push us to make ministry choices that prioritize untouched fields and honor others’ labor.

Support from Transcript:

  • Paul: “I have striven to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation.”
  • Chris Austin: Paul was careful “not to thrust himself upon other men's disciples,” and he didn’t want to appear to be preaching “for glory's sake.”
  • Paul’s phrasing is stronger than “not persuaded”: “Where Christ was not even named,” highlighting deliberate pioneer work.
  • Origen: otherwise “it might seem that Paul was taking the glory away from the work of another.”
  • The underwriter portrays Paul laboring in “uncultivated” fields—plowing and sowing—suggesting he accepted harder work rather than easier credit.
Discussion Follow-ups What decisions today would look different if we feared “taking glory” more than we feared missing a strategic platform? How can churches honor pioneers and also honor those who build carefully on existing foundations without rivalry?

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