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For God is my witness, whom I serve in my spirit in the gospel of his Son, how unceasingly I make mention of you always in my prayers,
Verse Takeaways
1
Service from the Spirit
Paul emphasizes that his service to God is "in my spirit." Commentators explain this means his devotion is not merely external or ritualistic, but internal, sincere, and heartfelt. It is a service that flows from the highest part of a person, in contrast to a mere "outward mask of religion," as John Calvin puts it. This sets the standard for all Christian service: it must be genuine and come from the heart.
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Romans
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9
18th Century
Presbyterian
For God is my witness. The reason for this strong appeal to God is to show the Romans the deep interest that he felt in their welfare. Thi…
I serve (λατρευω). Old verb from λατρον, hire, and λατρις, hireling, so to serve for hire, then to serve in general gods or men, w…
19th Century
Anglican
Proof that the Apostle takes this lively interest in the Roman Church is conveyed through a solemn adjuration.
Whom I serve.
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Baptist
This man, Paul, did a great deal by prayer. I remember a minister, who is now with the Lord, who was thanked by his people for his wonderful sermon…
The salutation has been unusually long; but instead of moving on immediately to his main theme, the apostle still lingers over introductory matters…
16th Century
Protestant
For God is my witness, etc. He proves his love by its effects; for if he had not greatly loved them, he would not have so anxious…
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17th Century
Reformed Baptist
For God is my witness, whom I serve These words are an appeal to God, and carry in them the nature and form of an oath; the re…
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…
13th Century
Catholic
After the greeting, the Apostle begins the message, in which he first shows his affection for his readers to make them receptive hearers,…