Fathers

Loading…

What the Fathers say

Romans 1:12

Eastern Fathers

John Chrysostom

As if he said, Do not suspect that I spoke to accuse you. It was not with this feeling that I said what I did. But what may it be that I wished to say? Ye are undergoing many tribulations, being drenched on every side (by those who persecute you). I desired then to see you, that I might comfort you, or rather, not that I might comfort you only, but that I might myself receive comfort. See the wisdom of the teacher. …

Homily on Romans 2 ↗

Theophylact of Ohrid

In a covert manner he gave them to understand that the Romans needed to be corrected in many things. But since even this was said too strongly (for the Romans could say: what are you saying? Are we really wavering, going in circles, and in need of you to become firm?), he adds: "that is, to be comforted together with you." The meaning is this: you endure many afflictions; therefore I have desired to see you, in order to comfort you somewhat, or rather, to receive comfort myself as well. The common good requires this. …

Commentary on Romans ↗

Western Saints

Thomas Aquinas

The second cause is the mutual consolation found in friendly communication. Hence he continues that I may be comforted together in you, i.e., me by seeing you and imparting a grace, and all of us by that which is common to us both, your faith and mine. For it is a source of mutual consolation to be one in the faith: but God who comforts the downcast comforted us by the coming of Titus: not only by his coming but also by the comfort with which he was comforted in you (2 Cor 6:6).

Commentary on Romans ↗