Paul requests prayer from the believers and says that if his prayers are answered he will be able to come to them with joy and find rest.
Throughout his letters, Paul recognizes the power and need for prayer many times. He urges his brothers in Rome to pray for him and makes two specific requests in these verses. Now I urge you, brethren, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God for me. First, that he would be rescued from those who are disobedient (nonbelievers) in Judea and second that his service for Jerusalem may prove acceptable to the saints. Jerusalem is in Judea, Jerusalem being the city and Judea the region. Paul had already experienced an attempt on his life from people in Judea who likely would still want to kill him (Acts 9:23-25).
Paul believes that if these two things are accomplished, he may come to you in joy by the will of God and find refreshing rest in your company. Paul is expressing great confidence that the Roman believers will receive his message and reject the slander of the competing Jewish “authorities.” Paul makes plans throughout this chapter but notes here that he will visit the believers in Rome by the “will of God,” making it clear that he was committed to living out what God desires for his life. He concludes with a blessing, now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.