Matthew Henry’s Commentary

Matthew Henry reflects on the general obligation of Christians to "do good" as a sacrificial and voluntary expression of their faith. He emphasizes that good works are not merely a duty but a privilege to engage in the acts of love towards others. Henry notes that the term "opportunity" implies a temporal nature to our efforts, suggesting that believers should be vigilant and ready to act whenever they can seize such moments.

• Good to Everyone: Henry points out that Paul broadens the call to do good to all people, which speaks to the universal nature of Christian love. This compels believers to step outside their comfort zones and engage with those who are not necessarily part of their immediate community.
• Especially to the Household of Faith: The emphasis on doing good to fellow believers underscores the notion of Christian fraternity and mutual support. Henry indicates that the church should represent a primary source of aid and encouragement among its members.

Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Whole Bible

Albert Barnes provides a detailed exposition wherein he interprets the “opportunity” as the circumstances that God presents to each believer. He underscores that what constitutes "doing good" encompasses both moral support and tangible aid. Barnes asserts that this injunction signals an overarching principle of life in the Spirit, rather than a checklist of ethics.

• The Harmonic Relationship: Barnes emphasizes that ministry to believers should be harmonious with acts of kindness to others, lest the church be seen as self-serving. This holistic view of charity reflects the true nature of Christ's command to love one another.
• Spiritual Growth: He also points to the notion that engaging in good works among the community fosters spiritual maturity, aiding not only the recipient but also the giver in their walk of faith.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary

Adam Clarke emphasizes the necessity of using one's time and resources wisely in doing good. He aligns the phrase “as we have opportunity” with the understanding that believers must be proactive, taking advantage of the chances God provides, rather than waiting passively. He advocates for a lifestyle that exhibits an ongoing commitment to charity.

• Temporal Aspect of Good Works: Clarke draws attention to the fact that opportunities to do good may be fleeting, thus underlining the urgency of Paul's call to action.
• A Broader Principle: His interpretation suggests that the principle extends beyond charitable acts to encompass kindness, forgiveness, and mutual upliftment among believers.