up friends for his people in every place whither he leads them, and makes them blessings to those
in affliction.
Verses 11–16
The common events of travelling are seldom worthy of being told; but the comfort of communion
with the saints, and kindness shown by friends, deserve particular mention. The Christians at Rome
were so far from being ashamed of Paul, or afraid of owning him, because he was a prisoner, that
they were the more careful to show him respect. He had great comfort in this. And if our friends
are kind to us, God puts it into their hearts, and we must give him the glory. When we see those
even in strange places, who bear Christ's name, fear God, and serve him, we should lift up our
hearts to heaven in thanksgiving. How many great men have made their entry into Rome, crowned
and in triumph, who really were plagues to the world! But here a good man makes his entry into
Rome, chained as a poor captive, who was a greater blessing to the world than any other merely a
man. Is not this enough to put us for ever out of conceit with worldly favour? This may encourage
God's prisoners, that he can give them favour in the eyes of those that carry them captives. When
God does not soon deliver his people out of bondage, yet makes it easy to them, or them easy under
it, they have reason to be thankful.
Verses 17–22
It was for the honour of Paul that those who examined his case, acquitted him. In his appeal he
sought not to accuse his nation, but only to clear himself. True Christianity settles what is of common
concern to all mankind, and is not built upon narrow opinions and private interests. It aims at no
worldly benefit or advantage, but all its gains are spiritual and eternal. It is, and always has been,
the lot of Christ's holy religion, to be every where spoken against. Look through every town and
village where Christ is exalted as the only Saviour of mankind, and where the people are called to
follow him in newness of life, and we see those who give themselves up to Christ, still called a
sect, a party, and reproached. And this is the treatment they are sure to receive, so long as there
shall continue an ungodly man upon earth.
Verses 23–31
Paul persuaded the Jews concerning Jesus. Some were wrought upon by the word, and others
hardened; some received the light, and others shut their eyes against it. And the same has always
been the effect of the gospel. Paul parted with them, observing that the Holy Ghost had well described
their state. Let all that hear the gospel, and do not heed it, tremble at their doom; for who shall heal
them, if God does not? The Jews had afterwards much reasoning among themselves. Many have
great reasoning, who do not reason aright. They find fault with one another's opinions, yet will not
yield to truth. Nor will men's reasoning among themselves convince them, without the grace of
God to open their understandings. While we mourn on account of such despisers, we should rejoice
that the salvation of God is sent to others, who will receive it; and if we are of that number, we
should be thankful to Him who hath made us to differ. The apostle kept to his principle, to know
and preach nothing but Christ and him crucified. Christians, when tempted from their main business,