_Paul, an apostle_ Appointed and made such, not by my own will or choice, or those of any man, or any number of men; but _by the will of God_ Who called me by his grace to that sacred and important office; see Galatians 1:1; Galatians 1:15; _and Timothy, our_ Or rather _a, brother_ St. Paul, writing... [ Continue Reading ]
_Blessed be God_, &c. A solemn and beautiful introduction, highly suitable to the apostolical spirit; _even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ_ Who is his _only-begotten_ Son, both as to his divine and human nature; see Hebrews 1:2; Luke 1:35; and as he is Mediator, appointed, authorized, and quali... [ Continue Reading ]
_For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant_ As if he had said, We speak thus concerning the sufferings wherewith God is pleased to exercise his people, because we have lately experienced them in a large measure: _of our trouble which came to us in Asia_ It is probable that the apostle here refer... [ Continue Reading ]
_For_, &c. I am more imboldened to look for this, because I am conscious of my integrity; seeing _our rejoicing is this_ Even in the deepest adversity, a rejoicing which no external calamities can impair, or injuries destroy; _the testimony of our conscience_ In the sight of God, who searcheth the s... [ Continue Reading ]
_And in this confidence_ That is, being confident of this, namely, of our mutual affection to, and esteem for, each other; _I was minded_ Εβουλομην, _I purposed; to come unto you before_ Or _first_, as προτερον seems here to signify. “As soon as the apostle was informed, by some of the family of Chl... [ Continue Reading ]
_When I therefore was thus minded_ Having, therefore, purposed this; _did I use lightness_ Did I lightly change my purpose? or, _the things that I purpose_ in general; _do I purpose according to the flesh_ Are my purposes grounded on carnal or worldly considerations? _that with me there should be ye... [ Continue Reading ]
_Now he which stablisheth us_ Apostles and teachers; _with you_ All true believers; _in_ the faith of _Christ_ Or he who confirms both you and us in the truth; _and hath anointed us_ With the oil of gladness, with joy in the Holy Ghost; thereby giving us strength both to do and suffer his will: or,... [ Continue Reading ]
_Moreover, I call God to record_ As if he had said, That you may believe me in what I am going to affirm, I call God as a witness, _upon_, or against _my soul_ If I do not speak the truth. Was not Paul now speaking by the Spirit? And can a more solemn oath be conceived? Who then can imagine that Chr... [ Continue Reading ]