What does Paul commend the Romans for in Romans 1:7?
In Romans 1:7, Paul commends the Romans for being beloved of God and called to be saints. That position is presented as a high commendation, marking them as set apart by God's love and calling. This greeting identifies them as objects of divine affection and as those summoned to holiness.
Les points out that in Romans 1:7 Paul addresses 'all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints.' He treats this as quite a commendation, saying Paul is commending the Romans for that kind of position. He then compares this with 1 Corinthians 1:2, where Paul writes to the church at Corinth as those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be saints, along with all who call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.
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.