Romans 15:26

Romans 15:26, in plain English

The churches in Macedonia and Achaia (northern and southern Greece) had enthusiastically contributed money for the poor saints in Jerusalem.

Why it's here

These were the regions where Paul had spent years establishing churches—in places like Philippi, Thessalonica, and Corinth. When they heard about the need in Jerusalem, they responded generously, even though they were probably not wealthy themselves.

Who's speaking

Paul, describing what the churches did

Where it sits in the story

You're seeing the practical outworking of koinonia—that deep Christian community where resources flow across geographical and ethnic lines because you're all part of one family.

The scholarly reading

The churches of Macedonia and Achaia have voluntarily contributed financial support for the Jerusalem church's poor members, demonstrating concrete Christian solidarity.

Language and setting

Macedonia (northern Greece) and Achaia (southern Greece, including Corinth) were the two Roman provinces from which Paul had gathered the collection over years of ministry. The term 'pleased' (εὐδοκέω) suggests not mere obligation but genuine joy in giving—what 2 Corinthians 9:7 calls 'cheerful' giving. This collection had already been discussed in Romans 15:26-27 and is the subject of Paul's extended discussion in 2 Corinthians 8-9.

Voice

Paul

Significance

This charitable action fulfills the Old Testament principle of communal responsibility within God's covenant people and demonstrates that the Gentile churches, though ethnically separate, have become spiritually grafted into the family of Abraham and share its obligations.

24I hope to see you on my way to Spain. And after I have enjoyed your company for a while, you can equip me for my journey.

25Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem to serve the saints there.

26For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem.

27They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in their spiritual blessings, they are obligated to minister to them with material blessings.

28So after I have completed this service and have safely delivered this bounty to them, I will set off to Spain by way of you.

Read all of Romans 15 — The strong must bear with the weak. Christ did not please himself. Paul's vision for the church is a chorus of diverse voices glorifying God together.