Charles Ellicott Commentary Romans 15

We then that are strong.—The opening verses of this chapter are intimately connected with the end of the previous one. Not only ought those who are strong in faith to be careful what they do in the matter of meat and drink, but in all things they should show sympathy and consideration for their weaker brethren. This unbroken continuity between the two chapters is sufficient to show that the Epistle cannot originally have ended with Romans 14.

Bear the infirmities.—Take them upon ourselves, act as if they were our own, and, at the same time, by our sympathy relieve the consciences of the weak.

For his good.—The object of this compassionate interaction with others is to be their benefit and growth in spiritual perfection. It is grounded on the example of Christ Himself.

The reproaches. . . .—Literally, according to the Septuagint version of Psalm 69:9, one of those Psalms of suffering which, like Isaiah 53, provides a type of the sufferings of the Messiah.

Reproached thee fell on me.—The insults directed against God Himself fell upon His servants.

For. . . . — These words from the Old Testament, “For,” etc., can rightly be understood as applying to us.

Through patience and comfort of the scriptures — that is, “by the patience and comfort which the Scriptures afford.” The promises and consolations of Scripture support the Christian under his trials, and enable him to endure them not only patiently but also cheerfully.

Might have hope. — Literally, the hope — that is, the Messianic hope. The promises of Scripture center on the hope of the future Messianic glory. The fortitude with which the Christian endures his trials is sustained by that hope, and this fortitude, in turn, strengthens the hope, causing it to be held more tenaciously.

Now the God of patience and consolation.—Such, then, should be the disposition of the Roman Christians. The Apostle prays that along with the spirit of steadfast endurance God will also give them that spirit of unanimity which proceeds from singleness of aim.

There seems, at first sight, to be little or no connection between the God of patience and consolation and being likeminded. They are connected, however, through the idea of singleness of purpose. He who is wholly self-dedicated to Christ, and who in the strength of that self-dedication is able to endure persecution, will also have a close bond of union with all who set before themselves the same object.

Consolation....—The same word as comfort in the previous verse.

To be likeminded....—To have the same thoughts, feelings, sentiments, hopes, and aims.

According to Christ Jesus.—The conforming to that spirit of Christ which it is to be assumed that all who call themselves Christians have put on.