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1. If St. Paul's direction here arose from a real anxiety upon the subject of the "lodging" itself, we shall not be likely to suppose that he required much comfort or preparation for an ample retinue. The lodgings, as happily says, "were for the apostles rather than for Paul. He anticipated a large concourse of hearers. This would involve a situation convenient of access; large enough to hold a number of people; in a locality of good report, and undisturbed by a troublesome neighbourhood."

2. St. Paul had evidently changed his plans since writing Romans 15:24-28. With this verse cf. Philippians 2:24.

3. Rhetorically, this request would tell doubly —

(1) "Prepare me a lodging, or arrange for me at an inn. Nay, surely he will be the honoured and beloved guest of Philemon and Apphia. Will not Onesimus be there? And in what position?

(2) St. Paul wrote to a true and devoted friend. This simple direction would excite hope and joy, the passions which beyond all others make the human heart unable to refuse anything to those whom it loves.

(Bp. Wm. Alexander.)

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KJV: But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.

WEB: Also, prepare a guest room for me, for I hope that through your prayers I will be restored to you.