Fathers

Loading…

What the Fathers say

Romans 16:4

Eastern Fathers

John Chrysostom

"Who for my life have laid down their own necks." You see they are thoroughly furnished martyrs. For in Nero's time it is probable that there were thousands of dangers, at the time as he even commanded all Jews to be removed from Rome." (Acts viii. 2). "Unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the Churches of the Gentiles." Here he hints at their hospitality, and pecuniary assistance, holding them in admiration because they had both poured forth their blood, and had made their whole property open to all. …

Homily on Romans 30 ↗

Theophylact of Ohrid

They were perfect martyrs, for under Nero there were innumerable dangers. Here he hints at their hospitality. And lest they think he speaks out of flattery, he presents many other witnesses as well.

Commentary on Romans ↗

Western Saints

Thomas Aquinas

Who have for my life laid down their own necks, i.e., put themselves in danger of death to save my life, an indication of the greatest charity: greater love has no man than that he lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13). This seems to have happened at Corinth where Paul suffered persecution, as is found in Acts (Acts 18:6). Or perhaps it is better to say that others exposed themselves to danger for the Apostle. For what is read in Acts (Acts 18:21) occurred when Prisca and Aquila left Rome for Corinth. …

Commentary on Romans ↗