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into all creatures , Ps. cxxxix. 7, a passage, from which the groaning of the creature is distinctly explained. The sons of God are said to have the first fruits , so long as they are in the way [whilst as yet they have not reached the end, when they shall have full fruition]. They who possess the first fruits , and the good, which attends the first fruits, are the same. — %%ovreg, hax'ing) This word involves the idea of cause ; because we have. — sv eauro/g, in ourselves ) It implies, that the groaning of believers is widely different from the groaning of the creature. — tfrsva^o^ sv) here, and in ver. 22, signifies to desire [yearn after] with groaning ; comp. 2 Cor. v. 4. — rijv) This article shows by the apposition, that this sentiment, if it be resolved [analyzed], is contained in it, the redemption of our body is what constitutes the adoption. — r^v dffoXvrpuGiv [ redemption ] deliverance) This will be at the last day, which already at that time they were setting before themselves as being at hand; iXs v6ep/a, liberty [ver. 21], is a kindred expression to this dvoXurpuGig. — Comp. Luke xx. 36. [ That liberty is not intended here , by which we are delivered from the body , but that , by which the body is delivered from death. —
v. g.]
24. ’E Xv/di) the dative, not of the means, but of the manner ; we are so saved , that there may even yet remain something, for which we may hope, — both salvation and glory. He limits the present salvation, but, while he limits, he by that very circum- stance takes it for granted. — ri xul) why yet does he hope for it? Where there is vision, there is no need of hope. The blessed will be sure of the eternity of their blessedness, because they shall have no need of hope ; and therefore they will be established in it.
25. E / de, but if) The patient waiting of believers is deduced from the nature of hope.
26. K a/', even) Not only the whole creation (every creature) groans, but the Holy Spirit Himself affords assistance ; comp, ver. 23, note 2. On both sides, believers have such as groan with them, and make common cause with them ; — on the one side, they have the whole creation [creature] ; on the other, what is of still more importance, they have the Spirit. In as far as the Spirit groans, it respects us : in as far as He also affords assistance [‘ helps/] it respects the creature [creation]. — gw
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