Romans 15:30

Here, in the close of the epistle, our apostle most affectionately recommends himself the the prayers of the Christian Romans unto whom he wrote: I beseech you, brethren, strive, &c.

Where observe, 1. The apostle's courteous compellation, brethren. There is. threefold brotherhood which the scripture takes notice of:

(1.) Betwixt Christ and believers, He is not ashamed to call them brethren. Hebrews 2:11.

(2.) Betwixt believers themselves, they are brethren by grace, Love the brotherhood, 1 Peter 2:17; that is, the collective body of believers.

(3.) Betwixt the ministers of Christ and their beloved people there is also. brotherhood, I John your brother; Revelation 1:9; teaching the ministers of the gospel to carry it towards their people with love and gentleness, and the people to make reciprocal returns of love and affection.

Observe, 2. The manner of the apostle's request: it is by way of supplication and entreaty; I beseech you, brethren. Though as an apostle he might have enjoined them, yet for love-sake he rather entreats them.

Observe, 3. The request itself, that they strive together in their prayers for him: the original word signifies to strive together as wrestlers do, who exert all their power and might in that bodily exercise.

Observe, 4. Our apostle's sincerity, and holy ingenuity in this request which he made unto them: he desires them to strive with him in their prayers to God for him. He doth not, with some, beg the prayers of others, and neglect to pray for himself, but is willing to draw with them in the same yoke.

Observe, 5.. double argument which the apostle makes use of, to enforce his supplication and request;

(1.) For the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, for the sake of him who is so dear both to you and me.

(2.) For the love of the Spirit: that is, if the grace of love be wrought in you by the Holy Spirit of God, show it by your fervent prayer for all saints in general, and for myself. minister of Jesus Christ in particular.

Observe, 6. The particulars concerning which he desires their supplications;

1. For preservation in his journey to Judea; that the unbelieving Jews, which were prejudiced against him, might have no power to hurt him.

2. That his person and his performance for the poor saints at Jerusalem, might find acceptance with the Christian Jews, to whom he was not over acceptable; he therefore begs their prayers, that the believing Jews at Jerusalem might be reconciled both to the believing Gentiles that sent this alms, and also to himself that brought it: That my service for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints.

3. That he might have. prosperous journey to them by the will of God.

Where note, How much it is our duty always, and in all things, to refer ourselves, our intentions and actions, to the pleasure and providence, to the wisdom and will, of God.

And observe, lastly, the special reason why he was so desirous to visit and come unto them, that he might be refreshed with them, and by them; that the company and conversation of each other may be to their mutual refreshment and satisfaction: That. may come unto you with joy, by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.