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Romans 15:5
Verse
Context
Accept One Another
4For everything that was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope.5Now may the God who gives endurance and encouragement grant you harmony with one another in Christ Jesus,6so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now the God of patience and consolation - May that God who endued them with patience, and gave them the consolation that supported them in all their trials and afflictions, grant you to be like-minded - give you the same mode of thinking, and the same power of acting towards each other, according to the example of Christ.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now the God of patience and consolation--Such beautiful names of God are taken from the graces which He inspires: as "the God of hope" (Rom 15:13), "the God of peace" (Rom 15:33). grant you to be likeminded--"of the same mind" according to Christ Jesus--It is not mere unanimity which the apostle seeks for them; for unanimity in evil is to be deprecated. But it is "according to Christ Jesus"--after the sublimest model of Him whose all-absorbing desire was to do, "not His own will, but the will of Him that sent Him" (Joh 6:38).
John Gill Bible Commentary
That ye may with one mind and one mouth;.... This is the end for which the above request is made, and shows, that a cordial and sincere affection for one another is necessary to the worshipping of God with one consent, to a joining together in acts of religious service, both in praying to God, and in praising of him, which latter seems here chiefly designed; for how should there be an agreement of heart and voice, of mind and mouth, in praising God, unless there is a singleness of heart, and oneness of affection? This is necessary in order to glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Syriac and Arabic versions read, God "the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ"; leaving out, the copulative, which we translate "even", but may as well be rendered "and"; and be read, as by some, "the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ". God is the God of Christ, as Christ is man; who prepared the human nature for him, anointed it with the Holy Spirit, supported it in life, in sufferings and death, and glorified it at his own right hand; and in which nature Christ exercised every grace on him, as faith, hope, and love; discharged every duty to him, worshipped him, prayed unto him, and was in all things obedient to his will: and God is the Father of Christ, as Christ is God; for as man he had no father. Now he is "glorified" when the perfections of his nature are ascribed unto him; when notice is taken of the works of his hands, and the glory of his majesty, which appears in them; when praise is offered up, and thanks given for all mercies, temporal and spiritual, he bestows on his people; when they join together in the solemn worship of him, presenting their bodies, and giving up their hearts unto him; when they unite in praying to him, and singing his praise; and when their lives and conversations are agreeable to their profession of him.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle, having delivered two exhortations, before he proceeds to more, intermixes here a prayer for the success of what he had said. Faithful ministers water their preaching with their prayers, because, whoever sows the seed, it is God that gives the increase. We can but speak to the ear; it is God's prerogative to speak to the heart. Observe, I. The title he gives to God: The God of patience and consolation, who is both the author and the foundation of all the patience and consolation of the saints, from whom it springs and on whom it is built. He gives the grace of patience; he confirms and keeps it up as the God of consolation; for the comforts of the Holy Ghost help to support believers, and to bear them up with courage and cheerfulness under all their afflictions. When he comes to beg the pouring out of the spirit of love and unity he addresses himself to God as the God of patience and consolation; that is, 1. As a God that bears with us and comforts us, is not extreme to mark what we do amiss, but is ready to comfort those that are cast down - to teach us so to testify our love to our brethren, and by these means to preserve and maintain unity, by being patient one with another and comfortable one to another. Or, 2. As a God that gives us patience and comfort. He had spoken (Rom 15:4) of patience and comfort of the scriptures; but here he looks up to God as the God of patience and consolation: it comes through the scripture as the conduit-pipe, but from God as the fountain-head. The more patience and comfort we receive from God, the better disposed we are to love one another. Nothing breaks the peace more than an impatient, and peevish, and fretful melancholy temper. II. The mercy he begs of God: Grant you to be like-minded one towards another, according to Christ Jesus. 1. The foundation of Christian love and peace is laid in like-mindedness, a consent in judgment as far as you have attained, or at least a concord and agreement in affection. To auto phronein - to mind the same thing, all occasions of difference removed, and all quarrels laid aside. 2. This like-mindedness must be according to Christ Jesus, according to the precept of Christ, the royal law of love, according to the pattern and example of Christ, which he had propounded to them for their imitation, Rom 15:3. Or, "Let Christ Jesus be the centre of your unity. Agree in the truth, not in any error." It was a cursed concord and harmony of those who were of one mind to give their power and strength to the beast (Rev 17:13); this was not a like-mindedness according to Christ, but against Christ; like the Babel-builders, who were one in their rebellion, Gen 11:6. The method of our prayer must be first for truth, and then for peace; for such is the method of the wisdom that is from above: it is first pure, then peaceable. This is to be like-minded according to Christ Jesus. 3. Like-mindedness among Christians, according to Christ Jesus, is the gift of God; and a precious gift it is, for which we must earnestly seek unto him. He is the Father of spirits, and fashions the hearts of men alike (Psa 33:15), opens the understanding, softens the heart, sweetens the affections, and gives the grace of love, and the Spirit as a Spirit of love, to those that ask him. We are taught to pray that the will of God may be done on earth as it is done in heaven - now there it is done unanimously, among the angels, who are one in their praises and services; and our desire must be that the saints on earth may be so too. III. The end of his desire: that God may be glorified, Rom 15:6. This is his plea with God in prayer, and is likewise an argument with them to seek it. We should have the glory of God in our eye in every prayer; therefore our first petition, as the foundation of all the rest, must be, Hallowed be thy name. Like-mindedness among Christians is in order to our glorifying God, 1. With one mind and one mouth. It is desirable that Christians should agree in every thing, that so they may agree in this, to praise God together. It tends very much to the glory of God, who is one, and his name one, when it is so. It will not suffice that there be one mouth, but there must be one mind, for God looks at the heart; nay, there will hardly be one mouth where there is not one mind, and God will scarcely be glorified where there is not a sweet conjunction of both. One mouth in confessing the truths of God, in praising the name of God - one mouth in common converse, not jarring, biting, and devouring one another - one mouth in the solemn assembly, one speaking, but all joining. 2. As the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is his New Testament style. God must be glorified as he has now revealed himself in the face of Jesus Christ, according to the rules of the gospel, and with an eye to Christ, in whom he is our Father. The unity of Christians glorifies God as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, because it is a kind of counter-part or representation of the oneness that is between the Father and the Son. We are warranted so to speak of it, and, with that in our eye, to desire it, and pray for it, from Joh 17:21, That they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee: a high expression of the honour and sweetness of the saints' unity. And it follows, The the world may believe that thou hast sent me; and so God may be glorified as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:5-6 live in complete harmony: This phrase (see study note on 12:16) refers to the whole orientation of how someone thinks. A mindset of harmony is important for Christian unity (see 12:3-5, 16; Phil 2:2-5).
Romans 15:5
Accept One Another
4For everything that was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope.5Now may the God who gives endurance and encouragement grant you harmony with one another in Christ Jesus,6so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Twin Killers
By Jim Cymbala2.3K22:07DiscouragementROM 15:5In this sermon, Pastor Symbola shares a personal experience where he was encouraged by a man of God who believed that God was going to do something awesome. He emphasizes the importance of encouraging others and speaking positive words. He also addresses the twin killers of fear and discouragement, highlighting the need to rely on God for endurance and encouragement. The sermon concludes with a reminder from Joshua 1:9 to be strong and courageous, for the Lord is with us wherever we go.
Attributes of God - Grace, Mercy, Longsuffering and Goodness
By William MacDonald1.7K37:04Attributes of GodEXO 34:6PSA 31:19PSA 52:1PSA 119:68NAM 1:3MAT 5:7LUK 6:36JHN 1:16ROM 3:4ROM 9:22ROM 12:8ROM 15:52CO 8:9EPH 2:81PE 5:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the smallness of the earth in the vast universe, highlighting the insignificance of humanity in comparison. However, despite our sinful state, God showed incredible grace by sending his son Jesus to be born in Bethlehem and suffer on the cross for our salvation. The speaker lists numerous ways in which God has blessed and transformed believers, including indwelling them with the Holy Spirit and adopting them as his children. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of showing mercy, citing biblical verses that encourage believers to be merciful as God is merciful.
Being Inter-Denominational
By George Verwer1.4K23:27DenominationsROM 15:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the reality of human weakness and error, emphasizing that as humans, we are unable to do everything on our own. The sermon also highlights the importance of unity and love within the body of Christ, even in the midst of differences. The speaker acknowledges the positive aspects of interdenominational and parachurch ministries, despite the negative factors associated with them. Additionally, the sermon emphasizes the need to recognize that God can use various methods and streams of truth to reach people, and that it is important to not limit God's work to only one specific approach.
New Covenant - the Shadow and Reality - Part 2
By Zac Poonen1.2K10:25JHN 14:26JHN 15:15ROM 15:5GAL 2:18COL 1:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, rather than merely seeking earthly blessings. It highlights the significance of understanding the New Covenant life and discerning teachings that align with it. The speaker encourages a focus on Jesus' life as the ultimate revelation of God and warns against being influenced by teachings that promote an old covenant mindset.
Being Like Our Heavenly Father (Kannada)
By Zac Poonen1.1K57:20ISA 1:18MAT 5:44JHN 8:1JHN 17:3ROM 2:4ROM 15:51CO 3:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing God as our Father and Jesus Christ, defining eternal life as a deep relationship with them. It highlights the need for believers to grow spiritually by living closely with God, just like a wife grows to know her husband over time. The message challenges believers to move from being spiritual babies to mature sons and daughters by encouraging and supporting one another in love, reflecting God's character of mercy, compassion, and encouragement.
A God Who Encourages Us
By Zac Poonen5621:10:46MAT 6:25ROM 15:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and encouragement, reflecting on how God treats us. It highlights the need to repent of not showing love and encouragement to others, as God does for us. The speaker delves into the significance of being a source of comfort and encouragement to those around us, mirroring God's character of compassion and love. The message underscores the power of forgiveness, the impact of encouragement, and the transformation that comes from treating others with grace and kindness.
The Duty of Encouragement
By J.R. Miller0HopeEncouragementPRO 12:25ROM 15:5EPH 4:291TH 5:11HEB 3:13J.R. Miller emphasizes the vital duty of encouragement in his sermon, highlighting that many people face hidden struggles and despair in their lives. He urges listeners to cultivate the habit of offering cheer and support, as discouraging words can have devastating effects on those already burdened by life's challenges. Miller warns against the tendency of leaders to focus on hardships rather than inspiring hope, advocating for a more uplifting approach in all interactions. He illustrates the transformative power of encouragement through various examples, stressing that a single word of cheer can change the course of someone's day or even life. Ultimately, he calls on everyone to be a source of light and hope, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive despite their struggles.
Guilt-Trip Preaching
By Zac Poonen0Encouragement in PreachingFreedom in ChristMAT 5:3MAT 23:3JHN 1:14JHN 3:17JHN 14:15ROM 15:52CO 1:32CO 3:72CO 9:7HEB 3:13Zac Poonen emphasizes that preaching should not induce guilt or condemnation but rather encourage and uplift believers. He highlights that God sent His Son not to condemn but to save, and that true ministry should reflect this spirit of encouragement. Poonen warns against the common practice of guilt-trip preaching, which can lead to discouragement and spiritual bondage, and stresses the importance of distinguishing between the conviction of the Holy Spirit and the condemnation of the law. He calls for preachers to adopt a fatherly approach, fostering a supportive environment rather than one of shame and unrealistic expectations. Ultimately, Poonen urges a return to the grace and truth exemplified by Jesus, promoting a ministry that leads to freedom and joy in serving God.
Commentary Notes - Romans
By Walter Beuttler0ROM 12:1ROM 14:1ROM 15:1ROM 15:5ROM 16:17ROM 16:25ROM 16:27Walter Beuttler preaches about the transformation of man through dedication to God, unity in the body of Christ, and selfless service to others. He emphasizes the importance of presenting our bodies as living sacrifices, renewing our minds, and exercising our spiritual gifts in harmony with one another. Beuttler highlights the need for mutual forbearance, love, and respect among believers, especially towards those who may be weaker in faith. He urges believers to live in a manner that glorifies God, showing patience, kindness, and humility in all interactions.
Waiting on God
By R. Stanley0PSA 27:14ISA 30:15ISA 55:8ROM 15:5EPH 6:13R. Stanley preaches on the importance of waiting on God in a fast-paced world, emphasizing the need for patience and the art of 'Waiting on God.' The sermon delves into the reasons why we should wait on God, such as knowing God's mind, strengthening our hearts, and fighting the enemy. It highlights the biblical understanding and experience of waiting on God, which is essential for Christian discipleship and growth.
Farewell Letter
By Ignatius of Antioch0ROM 15:51TH 5:11HEB 10:241PE 4:10REV 2:10Ignatius of Antioch writes a letter to the Ephesians from Smyrna, expressing joy and gratitude for the companionship of believers like Crocus. He acknowledges those who have gone before him to Rome for the glory of God and urges the Ephesians to support and refresh them. Ignatius emphasizes the importance of unity and encouragement among believers, signing off with a message of perseverance in the patience of Jesus Christ.
Continue in Unity and Love
By Ignatius of Antioch0ROM 15:51TH 5:25HEB 13:16JAS 5:161PE 4:8Ignatius of Antioch urges the Church in Smyrna to continue in harmony and supplication, emphasizing the importance of unity and prayer. He expresses gratitude for the support he has received from the Church leaders and encourages them to refresh one another in faith. Ignatius humbly requests prayers for himself, seeking to be found worthy in the eyes of God and not be deemed reprobate.
Preserve Harmony
By Ignatius of Antioch0ROM 15:51CO 1:10EPH 4:3COL 3:14Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of unity and harmony within the church, urging believers to follow the leadership of their bishop as representatives of God, the presbyters as representatives of the apostles, and the deacons as ministers of Jesus Christ. He highlights the eternal nature of Jesus Christ as the only-begotten Son of God, encouraging love and unity among believers, looking at each other through the lens of Christ. Ignatius stresses the need for believers to be united under the bishop and subject to God in Christ, avoiding anything that may cause division.
The Ephesians From Smyrna
By Ignatius of Antioch0ROM 15:51CO 12:12GAL 6:2EPH 4:3PHP 2:1Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the unity and harmony among believers, acknowledging the refreshing support received from the Ephesians in Smyrna and the salutations from Polycarp and other Churches. He encourages the congregation to continue in the inseparable Spirit of Christ Jesus, obtained by the will of God, for the glory of God and in honor of Jesus Christ.
Peace Restored to the Church
By Clement of Rome0ROM 15:51CO 1:10PHP 2:3COL 3:141PE 3:8Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of noble-mindedness, compassion, and love within the Christian community, urging individuals to prioritize peace and unity over personal preferences or disagreements. He encourages those who are willing to sacrifice their own desires for the greater good of the church to receive great glory in the Lord and be welcomed everywhere. Clement reminds believers that living a godly life, characterized by selflessness and unity, aligns with God's will and brings eternal blessings.
Salutation
By Clement of Rome0ROM 15:51CO 7:34PHP 4:71JN 4:7Clement of Rome delivers a message of love, obedience, and hope to those who cherish their life in Christ through God the Father. He encourages affection towards brethren and neighbors in the love of God, highlighting the importance of unity and community. Clement also acknowledges the dedication of brother and sister virgins who commit to preserving their purity for the kingdom of heaven, offering them peace found in God's presence.
Unanimity the Divine Method of Church Government
By G.H. Lang0PRO 3:5JHN 17:20ACT 15:25ROM 15:51CO 1:101CO 14:33EPH 4:3PHP 2:2JAS 1:5G.H. Lang preaches about the importance of seeking unanimity in decision-making within the church, emphasizing the need to defer decisions until a unified mind and judgment are reached, as opposed to relying on majority voting. He argues that the scriptural method involves waiting for the Lord to reveal His will through unanimous agreement, rather than through uncertain majority votes. Lang highlights the significance of oneness of mind and action in reflecting the unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and how this unity serves as a powerful testimony to the world. He draws examples from the Old and New Testaments, particularly Acts 15, to support the principle of seeking unanimity in church matters, showing that the Lord's authority is recognized when decisions are made unanimously.
"With One Another According to Christ Jesus"
By Bryan Anthony0ACT 1:14ROM 11:36ROM 15:5Bryan Anthony delves into the importance of understanding the cultural background of the Bible writers to interpret the Scriptures authentically. He emphasizes that Paul, as a 'citizen of heaven,' spoke from a heavenly culture, aiming for unity and harmony in the Body of Christ. Anthony highlights the need for Christians to be of one mind according to Christ Jesus, not just superficially, but through genuine conversion and transformation, aligning their perspectives and desires with Christ's.
New Years' Address, January 1857
By J.C. Philpot0JHN 16:13ROM 15:51CO 10:31EPH 4:3PHP 2:3COL 3:141PE 3:81JN 4:7J.C. Philpot, in his New Years' Address of January 1857, emphasizes the importance of seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all endeavors, especially in preaching and writing, to avoid seeking personal glory and instead focus on spiritual welfare and the glory of God. He highlights the need for ministers and writers to edify, comfort, instruct, and lead the family of God with love and unity, emphasizing the vital union of the church with Christ and with each other. Philpot addresses the tendency to focus on divisions and faults within the church, urging believers to look beyond surface conflicts and strive for genuine spiritual union and affection among the brethren.
Section Iv.--Effects Upon the World.
By William Arthur0PRO 27:17ACT 2:42ROM 15:5GAL 6:2EPH 4:16COL 3:161TH 5:11HEB 10:24JAS 5:161JN 1:7William Arthur preaches about the importance of fellowship, mutual edification, and the social element of Christianity as demonstrated in the early Church. He emphasizes the need for believers to share their spiritual experiences, struggles, and joys with one another, fostering a sense of family and unity within the Church. Arthur highlights the significance of prayer, teaching, breaking of bread, and fellowship in the life of a Christian community, drawing from the example of the early Christians in the book of Acts. He challenges the notion of isolating one's spiritual journey and encourages active participation, mutual support, and open communication among believers to strengthen their faith and edify one another.
Catholic Unity
By Ian Paisley0JHN 17:20ROM 15:51CO 1:10EPH 4:3COL 3:14Ian Paisley delivers a sermon critiquing the notion of Catholic Unity, emphasizing the lack of truth in the unity boasted by the Roman Catholic Church. He contrasts the external appearance of unity in Catholicism with the true unity found in the Church of Christ, highlighting the discord and inconsistencies within Popish teachings. Paisley defends Protestantism, pointing out the unity found in submission to the authority of the Holy Scriptures, as opposed to the unity in submission to the Pope in Roman Catholicism. He concludes by urging for a unity based on brotherly love and Christian fellowship, rather than uniformity of opinion.
On Christian Unity
By Thomas Reade0PSA 133:1JHN 13:35JHN 17:11ROM 15:51CO 1:10EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:141JN 1:7Thomas Reade preaches on the importance of Christian unity, emphasizing the oneness between Christ and His people as a source of strength and beauty for the church. He highlights the teachings of Jesus and Paul on unity, urging believers to be of one mind and judgment, united in spirit and purpose. Reade stresses that unity is essential for the church's witness to the world and its spiritual growth, contrasting it with the disfigurement caused by strife and divisions.
Reception of Believers
By Franklin Ferguson0ACT 2:41ROM 15:51CO 12:121CO 14:401TI 5:22Robert Gessner discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the reception of believers into local church fellowship, emphasizing the importance of addressing this topic despite the controversies it may bring. He highlights three common misconceptions related to reception, including the confusion between breaking of bread meeting and assembly fellowship, the belief that reception is solely an individual's responsibility, and the disregard for disciplinary actions taken by other churches. Gessner encourages the congregation to re-examine their reception policies and teachings, referencing Franklin Ferguson's booklet 'The Church of God' as a resource for understanding the biblical principles of reception without causing division.
Why We Fight
By Mary Wilder Tileston0ACT 28:15ROM 15:5GAL 6:21TH 5:11HEB 10:24Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the importance of supporting and encouraging our fellow believers, emphasizing the need to be a source of strength and comfort for one another in times of doubt and struggle. She highlights the power of unity and brotherhood in facing challenges, reminding us that our actions can inspire and uplift others to persevere in their faith. Tileston urges us to be faithful and loyal to God, ensuring that we have something to offer to those who come to us seeking help and support.
From the Death of Queen Alexandra to the Death of Antigonus
By Flavius Josephus0PSA 20:7PSA 33:12PSA 118:8PSA 146:3PRO 3:5PRO 16:7PRO 21:1ROM 12:18ROM 13:1ROM 15:5Flavius Josephus recounts the political intrigues and power struggles within Judea, highlighting the influence of Antipater and his sons, Herod and Phasaelus, in the governance of the region. The narrative includes the accusations against Herod, his trial before the Sanhedrin, and his subsequent rise to power with Roman support. The account also details the honors and alliances that the Romans, including Julius Caesar, bestowed upon the Jews, showcasing their courage, fidelity, and political significance in the region.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now the God of patience and consolation - May that God who endued them with patience, and gave them the consolation that supported them in all their trials and afflictions, grant you to be like-minded - give you the same mode of thinking, and the same power of acting towards each other, according to the example of Christ.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now the God of patience and consolation--Such beautiful names of God are taken from the graces which He inspires: as "the God of hope" (Rom 15:13), "the God of peace" (Rom 15:33). grant you to be likeminded--"of the same mind" according to Christ Jesus--It is not mere unanimity which the apostle seeks for them; for unanimity in evil is to be deprecated. But it is "according to Christ Jesus"--after the sublimest model of Him whose all-absorbing desire was to do, "not His own will, but the will of Him that sent Him" (Joh 6:38).
John Gill Bible Commentary
That ye may with one mind and one mouth;.... This is the end for which the above request is made, and shows, that a cordial and sincere affection for one another is necessary to the worshipping of God with one consent, to a joining together in acts of religious service, both in praying to God, and in praising of him, which latter seems here chiefly designed; for how should there be an agreement of heart and voice, of mind and mouth, in praising God, unless there is a singleness of heart, and oneness of affection? This is necessary in order to glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Syriac and Arabic versions read, God "the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ"; leaving out, the copulative, which we translate "even", but may as well be rendered "and"; and be read, as by some, "the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ". God is the God of Christ, as Christ is man; who prepared the human nature for him, anointed it with the Holy Spirit, supported it in life, in sufferings and death, and glorified it at his own right hand; and in which nature Christ exercised every grace on him, as faith, hope, and love; discharged every duty to him, worshipped him, prayed unto him, and was in all things obedient to his will: and God is the Father of Christ, as Christ is God; for as man he had no father. Now he is "glorified" when the perfections of his nature are ascribed unto him; when notice is taken of the works of his hands, and the glory of his majesty, which appears in them; when praise is offered up, and thanks given for all mercies, temporal and spiritual, he bestows on his people; when they join together in the solemn worship of him, presenting their bodies, and giving up their hearts unto him; when they unite in praying to him, and singing his praise; and when their lives and conversations are agreeable to their profession of him.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle, having delivered two exhortations, before he proceeds to more, intermixes here a prayer for the success of what he had said. Faithful ministers water their preaching with their prayers, because, whoever sows the seed, it is God that gives the increase. We can but speak to the ear; it is God's prerogative to speak to the heart. Observe, I. The title he gives to God: The God of patience and consolation, who is both the author and the foundation of all the patience and consolation of the saints, from whom it springs and on whom it is built. He gives the grace of patience; he confirms and keeps it up as the God of consolation; for the comforts of the Holy Ghost help to support believers, and to bear them up with courage and cheerfulness under all their afflictions. When he comes to beg the pouring out of the spirit of love and unity he addresses himself to God as the God of patience and consolation; that is, 1. As a God that bears with us and comforts us, is not extreme to mark what we do amiss, but is ready to comfort those that are cast down - to teach us so to testify our love to our brethren, and by these means to preserve and maintain unity, by being patient one with another and comfortable one to another. Or, 2. As a God that gives us patience and comfort. He had spoken (Rom 15:4) of patience and comfort of the scriptures; but here he looks up to God as the God of patience and consolation: it comes through the scripture as the conduit-pipe, but from God as the fountain-head. The more patience and comfort we receive from God, the better disposed we are to love one another. Nothing breaks the peace more than an impatient, and peevish, and fretful melancholy temper. II. The mercy he begs of God: Grant you to be like-minded one towards another, according to Christ Jesus. 1. The foundation of Christian love and peace is laid in like-mindedness, a consent in judgment as far as you have attained, or at least a concord and agreement in affection. To auto phronein - to mind the same thing, all occasions of difference removed, and all quarrels laid aside. 2. This like-mindedness must be according to Christ Jesus, according to the precept of Christ, the royal law of love, according to the pattern and example of Christ, which he had propounded to them for their imitation, Rom 15:3. Or, "Let Christ Jesus be the centre of your unity. Agree in the truth, not in any error." It was a cursed concord and harmony of those who were of one mind to give their power and strength to the beast (Rev 17:13); this was not a like-mindedness according to Christ, but against Christ; like the Babel-builders, who were one in their rebellion, Gen 11:6. The method of our prayer must be first for truth, and then for peace; for such is the method of the wisdom that is from above: it is first pure, then peaceable. This is to be like-minded according to Christ Jesus. 3. Like-mindedness among Christians, according to Christ Jesus, is the gift of God; and a precious gift it is, for which we must earnestly seek unto him. He is the Father of spirits, and fashions the hearts of men alike (Psa 33:15), opens the understanding, softens the heart, sweetens the affections, and gives the grace of love, and the Spirit as a Spirit of love, to those that ask him. We are taught to pray that the will of God may be done on earth as it is done in heaven - now there it is done unanimously, among the angels, who are one in their praises and services; and our desire must be that the saints on earth may be so too. III. The end of his desire: that God may be glorified, Rom 15:6. This is his plea with God in prayer, and is likewise an argument with them to seek it. We should have the glory of God in our eye in every prayer; therefore our first petition, as the foundation of all the rest, must be, Hallowed be thy name. Like-mindedness among Christians is in order to our glorifying God, 1. With one mind and one mouth. It is desirable that Christians should agree in every thing, that so they may agree in this, to praise God together. It tends very much to the glory of God, who is one, and his name one, when it is so. It will not suffice that there be one mouth, but there must be one mind, for God looks at the heart; nay, there will hardly be one mouth where there is not one mind, and God will scarcely be glorified where there is not a sweet conjunction of both. One mouth in confessing the truths of God, in praising the name of God - one mouth in common converse, not jarring, biting, and devouring one another - one mouth in the solemn assembly, one speaking, but all joining. 2. As the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is his New Testament style. God must be glorified as he has now revealed himself in the face of Jesus Christ, according to the rules of the gospel, and with an eye to Christ, in whom he is our Father. The unity of Christians glorifies God as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, because it is a kind of counter-part or representation of the oneness that is between the Father and the Son. We are warranted so to speak of it, and, with that in our eye, to desire it, and pray for it, from Joh 17:21, That they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee: a high expression of the honour and sweetness of the saints' unity. And it follows, The the world may believe that thou hast sent me; and so God may be glorified as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:5-6 live in complete harmony: This phrase (see study note on 12:16) refers to the whole orientation of how someone thinks. A mindset of harmony is important for Christian unity (see 12:3-5, 16; Phil 2:2-5).