Psalm 133:1

Verse 1. Brethren. Some critics observe that the Hebrew word for a brother is of near brotherhood or alliance with two other words, whereof the first signifies one, and the other alike or together, to show that "brethren" ought to be as one, and alike, or together; which latter is by an elegant paranomasia joined with it: "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity", or, as we put it in the margin, "to dwell even together." So then, the very word whereby "brethren" are expressed notes that there ought to be a nearness, a similitude, yea, a oneness (if I may so speak) between them in their affections and actions. -- Joseph Caryl.

Verse 1. To dwell is a word of residence, and abode, and continuation. There is also pertaining to the love and concord of brethren a perseverance and persistency in it; not only to be together, or to come together, or to meet together for some certain time; but to dwell together in unity, this is which is here so extolled and commended unto us. It seems to be no such great matter, nor to carry any such great difficulty in it, for men to command themselves to some expressions of peace and friendship for some short space of time (though there are many now and then who are hardly able to do that); but to hold out in it, and to continue so long, this endurance is almost impossible to them. Yet this is that which is required of them as Christians and as "brethren" one to another, even to "dwell together in unity;" to follow peace, and love, and concord, and mutual agreement, not only upon some occasional meetings, but all along the whole course of their lives, while they converse and live together. --Thomas Horton.

Verse 1. Together in unity. If there be but one God, as God is one, so let them that serve him be one. This is what Christ prayed so heartily for. "That they may be one:" John 17:21 . Christians should be one,

HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS

Verse 1. Christian unity.

Verse 1. The saints are here contemplated,

Verse 1-3. Six blessings which dwell with unity.

Verse 1-3.

Verse 1-3. On Christians dwelling together in unity as a church.

b) Because united to Christ, who as elder brother desires unity: John 17:20-21 . Not to seek it is virtually to disown Him.

c) Because "by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body" ( 1 Corinthians 12:13 ), wherein unity must be kept: Ephesians 4:3 .

d) Because destined to "dwell together in unity", for ever in heaven; therefore we should aim at it here.

b) Pleasant, as productive of happiness: as pleasing to God.

b) Love to Christ as a constraining power unites each to the other as it binds all closely to Christ.

c) Activity in ministering to others, rather than desiring to be ministered unto, binds heart to heart. --J. F.