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- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The God of peace - Who neither sends nor favors such disturbers of the tranquillity of his Church. Shall bruise Satan - Shall give you the dominion over the great adversary of your souls, and over all his agents who, through his influence, endeavor to destroy your peace and subvert your minds. Several critics suppose that the word Satan is a sort of collective term here, by which all opposers and adversaries are meant; and especially those false teachers to whom he refers above. The grace of our Lord - That you may be truly wise simple, obedient, and steady in the truth, may the favor or gracious influence of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you! without which you cannot be preserved from evil, nor do any thing that is good. Here the apostle appears to have intended to conclude his epistle; but afterwards he added a postscript, if not two, as we shall see below. Several ancient MSS. omit the whole of this clause, probably thinking that it had been borrowed from Rom 16:24; but on the ground that the apostle might have added a postscript or two, not having immediate opportunity to send the epistle there is no need for this supposition.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly--The apostle encourages the Romans to persevere in resisting the wiles of the devil with the assurance that, as good soldiers of Jesus Christ, they are "shortly" to receive their discharge, and have the satisfaction of "putting their feet upon the neck" of that formidable enemy--symbol familiar, probably, in all languages to express not only the completeness of the defeat, but the abject humiliation of the conquered foe. (See Jos 10:24; Sa2 22:41; Eze 21:29; Psa 91:13). Though the apostle here styles Him who is thus to bruise Satan, the God of peace," with special reference to the "divisions" (Rom 16:17) by which the church at Rome was in danger of being disturbed, this sublime appellation of God has here a wider sense, pointing to the whole "purpose for which the Son of God was manifested, to destroy the works of the devil" (Jo1 3:8); and indeed this assurance is but a reproduction of the first great promise, that the Seed of the woman should bruise the Serpent's head (Gen 3:15). The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen--The "Amen" here has no manuscript authority. What comes after this, where one would have expected the epistle to close, has its parallel in Phi 4:20, &c., and being in fact common in epistolary writings, is simply a mark of genuineness.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Timotheus my work fellow,.... Now follow the salutations of the friends and companions of the apostle: we may imagine that when this epistle was just concluding, that these his friends being about him, one said, pray send my Christian salutation to our dear friends at Rome, so said a second, and likewise a third, and so on, and Timotheus he began. This is the same person with Timothy, a disciple the apostle met with at Derbe, whose father was a Greek, and his mother a Jewess, and a believer in Christ. This same man he circumcised because of the Jews, and took him along with him, and was his companion in his travels, and very assisting to him in the work of the ministry, in spreading the Gospel, and promoting the interest of Jesus Christ; and therefore he here calls him his "work fellow"; he wrote two epistles to him afterwards when at a distance front him, in which he often calls him his son, his dear and well beloved son, having a great affection for him, because as a son with a father he served with him in the Gospel of Christ: and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater my kinsmen salute you. This Lucius was either Lucius of Cyrene, who was one of the prophets in the church at Antioch, Act 13:1, though indeed he is never said to travel with the apostle, or to be at Corinth, from whence this epistle was written; or rather, therefore, as others think, Luke the evangelist, who was a constant companion of the apostle, and was at Corinth with him at this time, as appears from Act 20:5; Jason no doubt is he of Thessalonica, that received Paul and Silas into his house, and when an uproar was made concerning them, was brought before the rulers of the city, and gave security for them, Act 17:5. This is a Jewish name, and he himself was a Jew, as is clear from his being a kinsman of the apostle's; his name was "Jeshua" or "Jesus"; so we read of one Jason, the brother of Onias the high priest of the Jews, "But after the death of Seleucus, when Antiochus, called Epiphanes, took the kingdom, Jason the brother of Onias laboured underhand to be high priest,'' (2 Maccabees 4:7) and whose name, as Josephus (a) relates, was Jesus, but he chose to be called Jason, very likely because that was a name among the Greeks, whose fashions he was fond of. Sosipater was Sopater of Berea, who, with others, accompanied the apostle into Asia, Act 20:4; he also was a Jew, and his Jewish name, as Grotius conjectures, might be Abisha, or rather Abishua, the name of the son of Phinehas the high priest, Ch1 6:4. Mention is also made of one of this name, Sosipater, in "12. Howbeit Dositheus and Sosipater, who were of Maccabeus' captains, went forth, and slew those that Timotheus had left in the fortress, above ten thousand men. 24. Moreover Timotheus himself fell into the hands of Dositheus and Sosipater, whom he besought with much craft to let him go with his life, because he had many of the Jews' parents, and the brethren of some of them, who, if they put him to death, should not be regarded.'' (2 Maccabees 12:12,24) These three last were Paul's kinsmen after the flesh, as well as in the spirit; being of the same nation, and perhaps of the same tribe, and it may be of the same family; they are all three mentioned among the severity disciples: Lucius is said to be bishop of Laodicea in Syria, Jason of Tarsus, and Sosipater of Iconium; See Gill on Luk 10:1. (a) Antiqu. l. 12. c. 5. sect. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet: Paul alludes to the curse that God pronounced upon the serpent after he had deceived Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Gen 3:15). Christ, the offspring of Eve, will soon crush Satan under the feet of the church (cp. Matt 16:18-19).
Avoid Divisions
19Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice over you. But I want you to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil. 20The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
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(Hebrews) 3-Cain and Abel
By Leonard Ravenhill19K1:07:54Cain and AbelGEN 3:16ROM 16:20HEB 11:4HEB 11:16HEB 11:39In this sermon, the preacher discusses various topics related to faith and obedience to God. He mentions the story of Noah and the ark, highlighting how God's plan was perfect and how people ridiculed and snarled at it. The preacher emphasizes the importance of holy character and how God can work through flesh and blood to magnify Christ. He also references the book of Hebrews, specifically chapter 11, which discusses the excellency, life, and achievements of faith. The sermon concludes with a reminder that trusting and obeying God may not always be easy, but it is necessary even when faced with opposition.
(Basics) 2. God Makes Evil Work for Good
By Zac Poonen5.3K12:28GEN 50:20ISA 54:17ROM 8:28ROM 16:202CO 12:9JAS 4:71JN 3:8In this sermon, the preacher shares a story of a businessman who drifted away from God as his business prospered. Despite the elders of his church trying to bring him back to faith, he was too occupied with his success. However, when his youngest son fell seriously ill after being bitten by a poisonous snake, the father realized the importance of turning back to God. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus Christ has the power to undo the works of Satan and untie the knots in our lives. He explains that God uses evil and Satan to further His purposes, ultimately bringing people to salvation. The sermon highlights the almighty power of God and how He makes a fool of Satan by using evil to deliver people from his clutches.
Now Do You Believe God?
By Ralph Sexton2.0K39:56BelieveGEN 3:15ROM 3:14ROM 16:20REV 12:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing the imminent return of the Lord. He believes that society has become too focused on materialism, which has caused a loss of love for God and the Bible. The preacher references the story of Adam and Eve and how their sin brought about consequences such as broken fellowship with God, pain in childbirth, and the need to work for food. He also mentions the recent natural disasters and the biblical prophecies that have been fulfilled, suggesting that these events are signs of the approaching end times. The preacher urges the congregation to love and reach out to the lost, and to actively serve in the church in anticipation of Christ's return.
Psalms - Part 2
By Zac Poonen1.8K54:14PsalmsROM 6:14ROM 16:202PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of praising God and acknowledging His blessings in our lives. The sermon is based on Psalm 113, which is a psalm of praise. The preacher highlights different categories of people who have experienced God's deliverance, such as those who were lost, in darkness, sick, or in a storm. The sermon concludes with Psalm 150, which emphasizes the need for everyone to praise the Lord, as long as they have breath.
(Genesis) 10 - Paradise Lost, - but Regainable!
By S. Lewis Johnson1.7K51:42CreationGEN 3:15MAT 6:33ROM 16:20In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the concept of Paradise Lost but Regainable, drawing from the book of Genesis. He emphasizes the fact that all humans are sinners and will eventually return to dust unless saved by the Lord Jesus Christ. The preacher also mentions the story of Adam and Eve and how they must have taught their children about the consequences of sin. He warns the audience that relying on their own actions for salvation is futile and that they must acknowledge their need for God's grace.
The Fight (Reading)
By J.C. Ryle1.5K45:50ECC 12:6ISA 63:2JHN 6:37JHN 10:28ROM 6:14ROM 8:38ROM 16:20PHP 1:6HEB 13:5REV 21:7In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the concept of spiritual warfare and the struggle that Christians face in their journey towards eternal rewards. He emphasizes that true Christianity is not a passive endeavor, but rather a fight and a warfare. The preacher highlights the importance of relying on God's promises and the assurance that He will fulfill them. He encourages believers to trust in God's provision, strength, and faithfulness, reminding them that sin will not have dominion over them and that God will ultimately bring victory over Satan.
(Romans) Romans 15:30-16:27
By Zac Poonen1.4K48:17GEN 3:15MAT 5:44ROM 8:14ROM 9:11ROM 11:29ROM 12:1ROM 16:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of keeping our minds innocent of evil in a world filled with wickedness. He encourages listeners to avoid watching or reading about evil and instead focus on ways to live a pure and good life. The speaker highlights the various aspects of the gospel beyond forgiveness and victory, such as God's sovereignty and faithfulness. He urges believers to give glory to God when they experience victory over sin and when they are part of a united church. The sermon concludes with a reminder to rely on the grace of Jesus Christ and to stay away from deceivers who are only interested in personal gain.
God's Strength & Faithfulness
By Robert B. Thompson6021:05:35MAT 5:18LUK 18:1ROM 16:202CO 1:201TH 5:17JAS 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of the upcoming difficult times to grow spiritually and help others. He believes that American Christians are too comfortable and need to become more serious with God. The preacher also discusses the brutal treatment of captives and how it should serve as a wake-up call for Christians to prioritize prayer and sacrifice for the gospel. He urges the audience to redeem their time and avoid wasting it on trivial pursuits, emphasizing the need to bear fruit in their lives. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God will ultimately crush Satan and that believers should trust in Him for guidance and provision.
Learning How to Make Progress in Christian Life
By Zac Poonen6011:18:31GEN 3:15MAT 5:3MAT 8:16MAT 11:29MAT 18:4LUK 17:3ROM 8:31ROM 14:17ROM 16:202CO 2:142CO 7:11JN 4:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life that honors God and reflects the character of Jesus Christ. It highlights the need for humility, purity, and compassion towards sinners while being firm against unrepentant sin. The message encourages believers to seek victory over the devil, to cleanse themselves from all filthiness, and to have the aroma of Christ in their lives. It calls for a church where Christ is honored and the devil is defeated, urging individuals to respond to God's call to live a life of holiness and victory.
The Day of the Seventh Angel
By Robert B. Thompson5961:09:47PSA 119:105ISA 60:13MAT 22:37ROM 16:20REV 10:1REV 12:17In this sermon, the preacher begins by praying for the congregation to be vigilant and alert in the face of conflict in the coming year. He emphasizes the importance of putting on the whole armor of God to stand against evil. The preacher then discusses the issue of seeking power in the charismatic movement, stating that what is truly needed is a desire for God rather than just power. He concludes by highlighting the significance of God's power and the need for a genuine relationship with Him.
Whispers of Victory
By Denny Kenaston5891:33:14VictoryROM 8:31ROM 16:20PHP 2:10REV 21:6In this sermon, the speaker shares stories of their experiences preaching the word of God in villages. They mention a man who was a practicing witch doctor but got saved after attending their services for two years. The speaker then transitions to discussing the story of the Israelites escaping from Egypt and being pursued by Pharaoh's army. They highlight the fear and desperation of Elisha's servant when faced with the enemy army surrounding them. However, Elisha reassures him that those with them are more than those with the enemy. The speaker relates this story to the challenges we face in our own lives and encourages listeners to trust in God's strength even when the odds seem against us.
(Through the Bible) Joshua
By Zac Poonen51157:20JOS 1:9JOS 24:15ROM 6:14ROM 16:20JAS 4:7REV 12:11This sermon delves into the book of Joshua, highlighting the importance of obedience, faith, and humility in serving God. It emphasizes the need to trust in God's victory, to remember His past deliverances, and to seek His counsel even after experiencing success. The narrative of Joshua's leadership serves as a model for believers to follow, reminding them to stay vigilant, to resist temptation, and to continually seek God's guidance in all aspects of life.
Satan Has Been Defeated
By Zac Poonen47225:42JHN 19:30ROM 16:20COL 2:14HEB 2:14JAS 4:7REV 12:11This sermon delves into the profound work accomplished by Christ on the cross, highlighting the completion of salvation, the payment for sins, and the defeat of Satan's power. It emphasizes how Jesus bore the punishment for our sins, leading to the restoration of our relationship with God. The sermon also explores the victory over Satan through Christ's sacrifice, empowering believers to resist the devil and live in freedom from fear and bondage.
Crushing Satan
By Watchman Nee1Authority over the EnemyVictory in ChristLUK 10:19JHN 15:5ROM 16:201CO 15:572CO 2:14EPH 6:10PHP 4:13COL 2:151JN 5:4REV 12:11Watchman Nee emphasizes that obedience to God's will leads to the crushing of Satan under our feet, as stated in Romans 16:20. He explains that the Holy Spirit guides us into deeper fellowship with God, making the victory of Christ's sacrifice at Golgotha a tangible reality in our lives. Nee asserts that Christians have been given authority over the enemy's power, as highlighted in Luke 10:19, and that experiencing victory is essential for a fruitful Christian life. He warns that a defeated Christian cannot bear fruit and that many believers fail to realize the absolute victory available to them in Christ, leading to various spiritual struggles. Ultimately, he encourages believers to embrace their God-given authority and live in the victory that is theirs through faith.
The Works of the Devil
By Watchman Nee1Spiritual WarfareResponsibility of BelieversMAT 28:18ROM 16:201CO 15:57EPH 6:12COL 2:152TI 4:2JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 3:8REV 12:11Watchman Nee emphasizes that the Son of God was manifested to destroy the works of the devil, urging Christians to take responsibility in combating sin rather than resigning to fate. He warns against complacency in the face of biblical prophecies about apostasies, encouraging believers to actively rebuke and warn others. Nee asserts that Christians are obstacles to Satan's plans and must utilize the power of Christ to eradicate evil in their lives and communities. He reminds the congregation that any opposing force against God's will can be overcome, as it has already been defeated by the Lord.
The End Time
By Watchman Nee1Spiritual WarfareFaithPSA 35:1LUK 18:8ROM 16:20Watchman Nee emphasizes the urgency of prayer in the end times, highlighting that as the return of the Son of Man approaches, faith and prayer will be in short supply among believers. He points out that many lack the faith to pray against Satan's influence, doubting the power of their prayers despite God's promises. Nee calls for a faithful minority to rise up and engage in spiritual warfare through prayer, opposing Satan's authority and seeking God's intervention. He reminds believers that the end times are marked by increased activity from evil forces, making prayer more crucial than ever. The sermon challenges the congregation to be vigilant and proactive in their prayers against the enemy.
The Serpent's Head Bruised
By Henry Law1GEN 3:15EXO 15:6JHN 8:44ROM 16:202CO 4:41PE 5:8Henry Law preaches about the ongoing battle between good and evil, emphasizing the role of Satan in deceiving and enslaving humanity. He highlights the power and cunning nature of the devil, who seeks to keep people blind to his existence and the presence of the great Deliverer, Jesus Christ. Despite Satan's strength and influence, Law proclaims the ultimate victory of Jesus over the devil, as foretold in Genesis 3:15, where the Seed of the Woman will bruise the head of the serpent, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Of Evil Angels
By John Wesley1Spiritual WarfareThe Nature of EvilPSA 91:11MAT 4:8LUK 10:19ROM 16:202CO 11:14EPH 6:12JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:19REV 12:9John Wesley addresses the reality of evil angels, emphasizing that our true struggle is not against human adversaries but against powerful spiritual forces. He explains that all angels were created good, but some, led by Satan, fell from grace and now work to oppose God's purposes. Wesley warns that these evil spirits are constantly seeking to tempt and deceive humanity, using various means to instill doubt, malice, and discord. He encourages believers to be vigilant, don the armor of God, and resist these spiritual attacks through faith and reliance on Christ. Ultimately, Wesley calls for awareness of the subtlety and malice of evil angels, urging Christians to remain steadfast in their faith.
Confess Christ's Lordship
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 12:20MRK 5:4MRK 14:3LUK 4:18JHN 19:36ROM 16:20REV 2:27Wayne Barber preaches on the powerful concept of 'Crush' as seen in Romans 16:20, emphasizing the complete destruction and shattering of Satan's strength and power. The verb 'Suntribo' is used to depict breaking reeds, tearing apart chains, and figuratively representing being brokenhearted. This crushing action symbolizes trampling the devil under our feet, ultimately leading to his complete defeat by God. The promise of God's victory over Satan brings hope and assurance to believers, reminding them that the evil one cannot and will not win in the end.
Homily 10 on Ephesians
By St. John Chrysostom0ISA 43:26JON 3:10ROM 16:20EPH 4:4PHP 2:5John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of unity in the Church, drawing parallels between the body of believers and the physical body, highlighting the need for each member to fulfill their role without envy or pride. He warns against the destructive nature of seeking personal glory and honor within the Church, likening it to a consuming fire that threatens the spiritual well-being of all. Chrysostom urges repentance, fasting, and a turning away from selfish desires, calling for a collective effort to seek God's mercy and restoration for the Church.
Identifying the Enemy
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual WarfareDiscernmentLUK 10:19JHN 10:10ROM 16:202CO 10:3EPH 6:122TI 2:26JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:19REV 12:10Watchman Nee emphasizes the necessity of identifying our true enemy, which is not merely human but spiritual, as outlined in Ephesians 6:12. He urges believers to recognize that behind human actions, Satan and his dark forces are at work, causing suffering and oppression. Nee calls for spiritual discernment to differentiate between God's purposes and the schemes of the enemy, advocating for a deep-seated hatred of Satan's harassment. He stresses that acknowledging the injustices inflicted by the enemy is crucial for achieving victory and that believers must adopt a resolute stance against oppression. Ultimately, he encourages a pursuit of vengeance against the malice of Satan, affirming that he has no right to afflict God's people.
(The Full Gospel) 8. Faith, Brokenness and Victory
By Zac Poonen02CH 20:12PSA 23:5PSA 139:16JER 17:5ROM 9:33ROM 16:20EPH 6:12EPH 6:18JAS 1:5Zac Poonen preaches on the spiritual warfare believers face against evil forces, emphasizing the need to be wholehearted and on fire for the Lord to effectively fight against the enemy. He highlights the importance of prayer, especially for those faithfully preaching God's Word, as they are prime targets of the enemy's attacks. Using the example of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20, Zac Poonen teaches on the power of seeking God in prayer, acknowledging our weakness, and trusting God to fight our battles. He categorizes believers into three groups based on their confidence in themselves and in God, stressing the necessity of having total confidence in God to do eternal work for Him.
The Seed of the Woman, and the Seed of the Serpent. (Gen. 3:15)
By George Whitefield0GEN 3:15ROM 16:20HEB 2:141JN 3:8REV 12:9George Whitefield preaches on the significance of the promise in Genesis 3:15, where God declares enmity between the seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent, foretelling the victory of the Savior over Satan. He emphasizes how this promise was the first mention of a Savior for humanity, showing God's gradual revelation of His Son to mankind. Whitefield delves into the fall of man, the consequences of disobedience, and the hope found in the promise of a Redeemer who would ultimately crush the power of the enemy.
The Bible's First Promise
By C.H. Spurgeon0Victory in ChristPromise of RedemptionGEN 3:15JHN 16:33ROM 16:201CO 15:572CO 2:14EPH 6:12PHP 4:13HEB 2:141JN 5:4REV 20:10C.H. Spurgeon expounds on Genesis 3:15, highlighting it as the Bible's first promise to humanity, encapsulating the entire gospel and the essence of God's grace. He explains how this promise has been partially fulfilled through Jesus Christ, who was bruised but ultimately triumphed over sin and death, with a complete victory awaiting at His second coming. Spurgeon encourages believers to recognize that while they may face afflictions and temptations from evil, they can find hope and victory in Christ, who will ultimately crush the serpent's head. He emphasizes the importance of faith in overcoming the trials that bruise us, assuring that we will reign with Christ despite our struggles.
How to Overcome the Tempter
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual WarfareAuthority in ChristMAT 5:37LUK 10:19ROM 16:202CO 2:10GAL 6:1EPH 4:27JAS 4:71JN 2:14REV 12:11REV 21:7Watchman Nee emphasizes that overcoming the tempter is not a battle we fight alone, but one where we rely on God's strength and the power of the blood of Jesus. He teaches that we must hide under the blood, digest God's Word, and exercise our will to resist the devil, ensuring we do not give him any ground, even in small matters. Nee also highlights the importance of maintaining love and forgiveness towards others, as well as being watchful with our words and actions to avoid temptation. By calling on God immediately and declaring our authority over the enemy, we can secure victory in our spiritual battles. Ultimately, our triumph comes from recognizing that the enemy is already defeated under Christ's authority.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The God of peace - Who neither sends nor favors such disturbers of the tranquillity of his Church. Shall bruise Satan - Shall give you the dominion over the great adversary of your souls, and over all his agents who, through his influence, endeavor to destroy your peace and subvert your minds. Several critics suppose that the word Satan is a sort of collective term here, by which all opposers and adversaries are meant; and especially those false teachers to whom he refers above. The grace of our Lord - That you may be truly wise simple, obedient, and steady in the truth, may the favor or gracious influence of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you! without which you cannot be preserved from evil, nor do any thing that is good. Here the apostle appears to have intended to conclude his epistle; but afterwards he added a postscript, if not two, as we shall see below. Several ancient MSS. omit the whole of this clause, probably thinking that it had been borrowed from Rom 16:24; but on the ground that the apostle might have added a postscript or two, not having immediate opportunity to send the epistle there is no need for this supposition.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly--The apostle encourages the Romans to persevere in resisting the wiles of the devil with the assurance that, as good soldiers of Jesus Christ, they are "shortly" to receive their discharge, and have the satisfaction of "putting their feet upon the neck" of that formidable enemy--symbol familiar, probably, in all languages to express not only the completeness of the defeat, but the abject humiliation of the conquered foe. (See Jos 10:24; Sa2 22:41; Eze 21:29; Psa 91:13). Though the apostle here styles Him who is thus to bruise Satan, the God of peace," with special reference to the "divisions" (Rom 16:17) by which the church at Rome was in danger of being disturbed, this sublime appellation of God has here a wider sense, pointing to the whole "purpose for which the Son of God was manifested, to destroy the works of the devil" (Jo1 3:8); and indeed this assurance is but a reproduction of the first great promise, that the Seed of the woman should bruise the Serpent's head (Gen 3:15). The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen--The "Amen" here has no manuscript authority. What comes after this, where one would have expected the epistle to close, has its parallel in Phi 4:20, &c., and being in fact common in epistolary writings, is simply a mark of genuineness.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Timotheus my work fellow,.... Now follow the salutations of the friends and companions of the apostle: we may imagine that when this epistle was just concluding, that these his friends being about him, one said, pray send my Christian salutation to our dear friends at Rome, so said a second, and likewise a third, and so on, and Timotheus he began. This is the same person with Timothy, a disciple the apostle met with at Derbe, whose father was a Greek, and his mother a Jewess, and a believer in Christ. This same man he circumcised because of the Jews, and took him along with him, and was his companion in his travels, and very assisting to him in the work of the ministry, in spreading the Gospel, and promoting the interest of Jesus Christ; and therefore he here calls him his "work fellow"; he wrote two epistles to him afterwards when at a distance front him, in which he often calls him his son, his dear and well beloved son, having a great affection for him, because as a son with a father he served with him in the Gospel of Christ: and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater my kinsmen salute you. This Lucius was either Lucius of Cyrene, who was one of the prophets in the church at Antioch, Act 13:1, though indeed he is never said to travel with the apostle, or to be at Corinth, from whence this epistle was written; or rather, therefore, as others think, Luke the evangelist, who was a constant companion of the apostle, and was at Corinth with him at this time, as appears from Act 20:5; Jason no doubt is he of Thessalonica, that received Paul and Silas into his house, and when an uproar was made concerning them, was brought before the rulers of the city, and gave security for them, Act 17:5. This is a Jewish name, and he himself was a Jew, as is clear from his being a kinsman of the apostle's; his name was "Jeshua" or "Jesus"; so we read of one Jason, the brother of Onias the high priest of the Jews, "But after the death of Seleucus, when Antiochus, called Epiphanes, took the kingdom, Jason the brother of Onias laboured underhand to be high priest,'' (2 Maccabees 4:7) and whose name, as Josephus (a) relates, was Jesus, but he chose to be called Jason, very likely because that was a name among the Greeks, whose fashions he was fond of. Sosipater was Sopater of Berea, who, with others, accompanied the apostle into Asia, Act 20:4; he also was a Jew, and his Jewish name, as Grotius conjectures, might be Abisha, or rather Abishua, the name of the son of Phinehas the high priest, Ch1 6:4. Mention is also made of one of this name, Sosipater, in "12. Howbeit Dositheus and Sosipater, who were of Maccabeus' captains, went forth, and slew those that Timotheus had left in the fortress, above ten thousand men. 24. Moreover Timotheus himself fell into the hands of Dositheus and Sosipater, whom he besought with much craft to let him go with his life, because he had many of the Jews' parents, and the brethren of some of them, who, if they put him to death, should not be regarded.'' (2 Maccabees 12:12,24) These three last were Paul's kinsmen after the flesh, as well as in the spirit; being of the same nation, and perhaps of the same tribe, and it may be of the same family; they are all three mentioned among the severity disciples: Lucius is said to be bishop of Laodicea in Syria, Jason of Tarsus, and Sosipater of Iconium; See Gill on Luk 10:1. (a) Antiqu. l. 12. c. 5. sect. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet: Paul alludes to the curse that God pronounced upon the serpent after he had deceived Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Gen 3:15). Christ, the offspring of Eve, will soon crush Satan under the feet of the church (cp. Matt 16:18-19).