Self-Oblivion in the Midst of Self-Consciousness

Paul's letters present a paradox that cuts to the heart of Christian authenticity: his personal references are instances of self-oblivion in the midst of self-consciousness. The Apostle never visited Rome, possessed no established relationships with those believers, had never looked upon their faces—yet his heart went out toward them with undisguised yearning. The Greek word epipotheo in Romans 1:11 expresses intense longing blended with genuine regret at prolonged separation.…