Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.
Ver. 1. Dearly beloved and longed for] What heart melting language is here! Ministers must woo hard for Christ, and speak fair, if they will speak to purpose: "though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee, yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee," Philemon 1:8,9. How often are men fain to sue for that which is their own; and how heart glad if by fair entreaties they can gather up their debts!