Why does Paul commend the Romans in Romans 1:7?
Paul commends the Romans because Romans 1:7 addresses them as beloved of God and called to be saints. This is a high commendation, recognizing their position as God's beloved and called-to-be-saints people. He praises their spiritual status; that is the basis of his commendation.
Les explains that in Romans 1:7 Paul writes, 'To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints.' Les notes this is 'quite a commendation' and says Paul 'is commending the Romans for that kind of a position.' To illustrate, Les points to 1 Corinthians 1:2, where Paul similarly addresses the Corinthian church as 'sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints.' The commendation therefore rests on the Romans' standing as God's beloved and called-to-be-saints.
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.