Matthew Poole and continuators on 1 Peter 5:12

12 By Sylvanus a faithful brother unto you (as I suppose ) I have written briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand.

Either Silas, Act. 15. and 16 ch. whom Peter therefore here calls a faithful Brother to them, that they might the more readily receive him, though a Minister of the Uncircumcision; or, else this Sylvanus was some other that had Preached to them, and is therefore said to be a faithful Brother to them; the former is more probable.

This doth not signify any doubt, but rather a firm persuasion of Sylvanus his faithfulness, q. d. I reckon him faithful, having hitherto found him so: Or, it may relate to the briefness of the Epistle, q. d. I suppose it will seem brief to you, as being from one that loves you, and about matters that so much concern you.

Viz. to Constancy in the Faith, and diligence in Duty.

Bearing my Testimony to the Truth ye have received; this the Apostle witnesseth, that being more fully convinced of it, they might more constantly adhere to it. See the like phrase, Neh. 9.29, 30. and 13.15.

The true Doctrine of God, wherein he sets forth the Grace of Christ, q. d. ye are in the right way; the Doctrine ye have embraced is indeed the Truth of God.

Marginal references: Heb. 13.22.