3. General Discussion of the Subject, passing over into Expressions of Christian Praise.

The section opens with a statement of the principle which should govern the strong brethren (Romans 15:1), which is at once extended to both classes (Romans 15:2), as an injunction to please our neighbor. The motive is found in the example of Christ, as indicated in an Old Testament prophecy (Romans 15:3). This quotation suggests the patience and comfort of the Scriptures (Romans 15:4), the word of the God of patience and comfort (Romans 15:5) who alone can unite their hearts for common praise of the Father (Romans 15:6). Common praise suggests anew the duty of fellowship, even as Christ received them all, that all might praise God (Romans 15:7). For He received Jews to fulfil God's promises (Romans 15:8), and Gentiles to awaken praise for God's mercy, as the Scriptures abundantly testify (Romans 15:9-12). The section closes appropriately invoking blessing from the God of hope (Romans 15:13).

On the special questions respecting chap. 15, 16, see the Romans Book Comments, and chap. Romans 16:25-27.

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Old Testament