First, here, is not a word of order, for there follows no secondly, &c.; but it serves to show, that here the Epistle begins, for all before was but a preface or inscription: q.d. In the first place. See the like, 1 Timothy 2:1. Throughout the whole world, that is, through many parts of it; it is a figurative speech: see the like, 1 Thessalonians 12:19. Or else, by the whole world may be understood the Roman empire, which ruled at that time over a great part of the known world. See the like, Luke 2:1. Besides, there was a resort to Rome from all parts of the world, and so this report might be diffused far and near. The faith of the gospel at Rome made it more famous than all its victories and triumphs. Oh, how is Rome degenerated! We may take up the complaint concerning her which we find, Isaiah 1:11,12. The Romanists urge this place to prove Rome the mother church; but without reason: the church of Thessalonica had as high a eulogy: see 1 Thessalonians 1:8.
Related Commentaries of Romans 1:8
Romans 1:8
8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.