Romans 15:4-6

 “For everything that was written in former times was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and through encouragement of the scriptures we may have hope. Now may the God of endurance and comfort give you unity with one another in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

— ‭‭Romans‬ ‭15‬:‭4‬-‭6‬‬

V 4 is an explanation of v. 3, where Paul quotes from OT to try to prove that Jesus was foretold as not thinking of Himself but others. This is a whole study of how NT authors used OT passages, and it’s not always (in fact, rarely is) a simple prediction-fulfillment. Often used Jewish rabbi interpretation techniques, allegory, pattern fulfillment, etc. Very interesting study.

But v. 4 summarizes it well. Everything formerly written is for our instruction. It still applies. Of course, we have to understand it well. And there’s still debate as to how many meanings and how many applications, but that’s too much for here. The purpose is that we have hope. So that we are encouraged to endure.

These verses close 2 full chapters on living together as strong/weak brothers and striving for unity regardless of secondary/tertiary issues we don’t agree on. Paul prays for unity. As we gain encouragement from the Scriptures, looking at the example of Jesus, we can strive for unity, so that the Father receives all the glory. It’s not about us.