Romans 15:22–24 creates the expectation that Paul is now going to write about the exact time he plans on arriving in Rome. Yet there is an abrupt twist. Instead of now finally going to Rome, Paul suddenly makes a 180-degree turn towards the east in the direction of Jerusalem: At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints
(Romans 15:25). Not only does the destination seem surprising in light of the expectation that Paul will finally visit Rome, but the very purpose of the visit seems to be at odds with the actual work of the apostle. After all, he is called to bring the Gentiles back to the Lord, not to provide aid to the saints in an established Jewish Christian Church. As a preacher, Paul is also unaccustomed to deviate from his task in order to provide assistance to the churches instituted by him. Why would he then now, by all appearances, abandon his path and task? The answer to this question has everything to do with the unique position of Jerusalem, the capital of the Jewish people. The aid that Paul is going to bring to this city is a symbol of the recognition of the patriarchal roots of the gospel for the nations.1
25 At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints.