The Apostle Paul had made numerous plans to visit Rome, but had been thwarted each time. Paul makes it evidence that, perhaps, this time, he was going to make it. He longed to see the Roman Christians, even though this was one church that he never started. What he wanted to do while among the Christians in Rome was to strengthen them, as well as be encouraged. He was obligated by his call as a "slave" and an apostle carry his mission to everyone: both Greeks and barbarians, to the wise and the foolish. This section of Romans is easily applicable to Christians today, even though oftentimes those reading it, blow past it, without giving it much thought. Dr. Paul hopes to encourage the podcast listener to slow down just a bit and consider the heart-felt conviction of the Apostle Paul in these seemingly insignificant opening words about what Christian ministry is about.