ABSTRACT
While 1 and 2 Corinthians are partly defensive, mournful, and anxious letters, the letter to the Romans appears more confident and hopeful. Paul takes the initiative. He does not have to defend himself or his delayed visit, as in 2 Corinthians. Even though some misgivings are expressed about his personal future, Paul believes that all will end well and that he will come to the Christ-believers in Rome to relax eventually before entering the next stage. In Romans, all humans are described as equally helpless without the assistance of God – but nothing seems to frighten Paul, or cause him to shift course.
