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Romans 16:5b–16
Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia to Christ … (Rom. 16:5b).
We continue today to move through the list of those in the Roman church to whom Paul sends personal greetings. Many of these people are mentioned nowhere else in Scripture, so Paul’s brief greetings tell us all we know about them. And yet, each of these believers represents a chapter of God’s grace. As such, they are beloved by Paul. He greets:
Epaenetus (v. 5). This dear friend of Paul is identified as “the first-fruits of Achaia to Christ.” Other Bible versions translate “Achaia” as “Asia,” meaning this man was the first convert in Asia Minor, probably during Paul’s first missionary journey.
Andronicus and Junia (v. 7). These are like Paul in two ways—they are converted Jews and have been in prison. They were not converted under Paul, but came to faith before he did. He says they are notable “apostles,” using the word in its general sense of “messenger.”
Herodian (v. 11). Another converted Jew.
Urbanus (v. 9). A “fellow worker” in Christ; another missionary.
Apelles (v. 10). His faith is tested and he is “approved in Christ.”
Beloved friends. Amplias (v. 8) and Stachys (v. 9).
Rufus and his mother (v. 13). This man is said to be “chosen in the Lord,” perhaps meaning that his conversion was surprising. Paul also greets Rufus’ mother, saying she has been like a mother to him, too.
Hard-working women. Like Phoebe (vv. 1–2), Mary (v. 6), Tryphena and Tryphosa (v. 12), and “the beloved Persis” (v. 12) have poured out their strength in serving the kingdom of God.
The households of Aristobulus and Narcissus (vv. 10–11). “Households” can include slaves as well as relatives. Perhaps these men had led their households to Christ but had died, so that Paul does not greet them personally. Or perhaps they were merely benevolent pagans into whose households the Gospel had penetrated.
Various other saints. Verses 14–15 list nine named saints, one unnamed one, and others who are with them.
Paul’s last greeting is a formal one from the other churches he has planted. But before he mentions it, he gives a command that almost seems playful: “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” Perhaps thinking about the believers he is greeting leaves him so joyous that he wants the same happiness for them.
Coram Deo Living before the face of God
As each Lord’s Day approaches, do you experience a growing anticipation about seeing brothers and sisters in Christ once more? When you arrive at church, do you greet your fellow believers (and visitors) genuinely and warmly? If not, ask yourself what you can do to express love and appreciation for other Christians.
For Further Study
- Galatians 5:13
- Ephesians 4:2
- 1 Peter 3:8
- 1 Peter 5:14
- 1 John 3:16