John Calvin Commentary Romans 1:12

"that is, that I with you may be comforted in you, each of us by the other`s faith, both yours and mine." — Romans 1:12 (ASV)

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 preclude his also wishing to learn from them; as if he said, “I desire to confirm you according to the measure of grace conferred on me, in such a way that your example may also add courage (alacritatem – alacrity) to my faith, and that we may thus mutually benefit one another.”

See to what degree of modesty his pious heart submitted itself, so that he did not disdain to seek confirmation from inexperienced beginners. Nor did he speak insincerely, for there is no one in the Church of Christ so devoid of gifts who is not able to contribute something to our benefit.

But we are hindered by our envy and by our pride from gathering such fruit from one another. Such is our arrogance, such is the intoxication produced by vain reputation, that despising and disregarding others, everyone thinks that he possesses what is abundantly sufficient for himself.

I prefer to read with Bucer, exhortation (exhortationem – encouragement) rather than consolatim, for it agrees better with the former part.