Matthew Poole and continuators on Acts 21:17

17 And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.

It is thought that by Brethren in this place, and verse the seventh, they are meant, who being Believers, were formed into a Church with its several Officers, and that they are called Disciples only, verse 4. who living dispersed, and in smaller numbers, could not constitute such a Church; but surely whatsoever there is of priviledge and happiness in this spiritual fraternity, That truly Catholick Charity that was in the Apostles and other holy men, would not so confine it, as to exclude any from enjoying of it, who did not exclude themselves by greater crimes than their paucity in number, or the consequences of that could amount unto.