Paul’s reference to “the obedience to the faith” (verse 5) is more literally “the obedience of faith” (ὑπακοὴν πίστεως), an appositional genitive indicating that faith is active, not simply passive; it is commitment and not just reception (cf. 10:17; 16:26). It is not a mere assent of the intellect but a dedication of the heart. The expression may well be translated as “faithful obedience.” For some time now, Paul has wanted to come to Rome (verses 10–13), where the local Christian