That he should forbid none of his acquaintance— This was a circumstance graciously ordered by divine Providence, which would make St. Paul's confinement much lighter than it could otherwise have been, and gave him an opportunity of much greater usefulness. The word Υπηρετειν, rendered minister, sometimes is used for assistance in general, where personal ministration and attendance is out of the question; and as it is here distinguished from and prefixed to coming to him, it may probably signify, "Sending him food, books, or other accommodations."

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