Matthew Poole and continuators on Romans 1:7

7. To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you, and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

He doth not direct this Epistle to all that there inhabited, as to the Emperor and Senate, &c. but to the Church, and all the Christians there, as appears by the two following Phrases. He Wrote not to those only which were Romans by Nation, but to all the Faithful, whether Iews or Gentiles, bond or free; for they were all one and alike in Christ. They are deceiv'd, that think this Epistle, because directed to the Romans, was written in Latine. The Greek Tongue was well understood in that City. Iuvenal calls Rome a Greek City, because the Inhabitants, as well Natives as Strangers, did, some of them, use, and most of them understand that Language.

Or called Saints; though there might be Hypocrites amongst them, yet they were denominated from the better part. The Iews of old, were only accounted a Holy Nation or People; and the Gentiles Common or unclean; but now that difference is taken away; Faith in Jesus Christ, and effectual Calling, makes the Gentiles Holy as well as the Iews. The name [Saint] doth not denote a Perfection in Holiness, but one that is devoted and consecrated to God, who is Holy in Heart and Life, though he hath many imperfections.

Under these two words, Grace and Peace, are comprehended all Spiritual and Temporal Blessings. It is an usual Salutation or Benediction in the Epistles of this Apostle, vid. 1 Cor. 1.3. 2 Cor. 1.2. Gal. 1.3. Eph. 1.2. Phil. 1.2. Col. 1.2. 2 Thes. 1.2. 1 Tim. 1.2. Tit. 1.4. Philemon 3. See the like in the Epistles of Peter, 1 Pet. 1.2. 2 Pet. 1.2. See also 2 Iohn 3. Rev. 1.4.

Why is there no mention made here of the Holy Ghost? Answ. Because he is imply'd in his Gifts: Grace and Peace are the Fruits and Gifts of the Holy Spirit. In other Salutations the Holy Ghost is exprest, vid. 2 Cor. 13.14. And here, when the Father and Son are nam'd, He is plainly imply'd.

Marginal references: [illegible: 1 letter] Thes. 4.7.