That is (τουτο δε εστιν). "An explanatory correction" (Denney). The δε should not be ignored. Instead of saying that he had a spir…

That I may be comforted, etc. It was not merely to confirm them that Paul wished to come. He sought the communion of saints; he expected t…

That is, that I may be comforted.—A beautiful touch of true courtesy. He is anxious to see them, that he may impart to them some …

Paul wanted his faith to establish theirs, and their faith to establish his. Christians grow rich by an exchange of spiritual commodities; and I am…

The apostle confesses to a great desire to see his readers, not simply in order to know them personally, but especially to minister to them. By “sp…

Not being satisfied with this modest statement, he qualifies it, and shows that he did not occupy the place of a teacher in such a way as to preclu…

That is, that I may be comforted together with you
This is a further explanation of his view, in being desirous of c…

We must show love for our friends, not only by praying for them, but by praising God for them.

As in our purposes, so in our desires, we mus…

1. After the greeting, the Apostle begins the me age, in which he first shows his affection for his readers to make them receptive hearers, …