Romans 16

Monday, 17 February 2014

Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord. Romans 16:12

Paul has more people to send greetings to in verse 12. Three names are given and, again, speculation is mostly what abounds concerning them as nothing else is noted about them in Scripture. The three of them may actually be those mentioned in the previous verse which said –

“Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.”

Paul may be singling out those who are “of the household of Narcissus.” Or, he may be going on with a new listing. The names “Tryphena and Tryphosa” are believed to be slave names, but they also may be the feminine of the Jewish name Tryphon. The two names are similar enough to arose the thought that they were closely related, probably sisters, and possibly even twins. Whatever the truth of their situation, they were noted as having “labored in the Lord.” They were diligent in their duties and model examples of what a Christian should be.

Paul next addresses his desire for the Romans to “Greet the beloved Persis.” As she is a woman, he was careful to use the word “the” in place of “my.” In so doing, he was eliminating unnecessary speculation concerning any type of close relationship, which would certainly come about. Some ancient heretical writings and even modern scholars try to find inappropriate relationships between Jesus and Mary Magdalene. In the same way, they would also perversely attempt to do this with Paul if his words could be so manipulated. But he was careful in what he conveyed concerning her.

He notes that she was one “who labored much in the Lord.” The added “much” for her may be because the first two women were named together which would form the thought of a competent team. In the case of Persis, he then might have added in “much” to distinguish that her efforts were notable through her actions alone. Again, almost all that we can guess about these three is mere speculation.

Life application; In today’s world of social media and easy communications, we can easily make a comment which could be misconstrued. Photos can also be seen as inappropriate if the context isn’t known concerning what happened. Let us endeavor to use our words wisely so that we don’t somehow make others feel that we are acting in a way contrary to our Christian calling. However, it is also true that anyone can find fault for any reason, so be ready to defend yourself when your words and actions are in line with the Bible.

Lord Jesus, it is so easy in today’s world to have people misunderstand a photo, a post, or a comment made on social media. When the context isn’t known, people can find fault over anything. I would ask that if this happens, You will help me to resolve the issue in friendliness and love. If what I do or say isn’t contrary to Scripture, then let that truth be known. I never wish to bring discredit upon You with what I do. Amen.

Sunday, 16 February 2014

Greet Herodion, my countryman. Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord. Romans 16:11

Continuing on with his greetings of so many in Rome, Paul now directs his attention to Herodion stating that he is “my countryman.” This means he is a converted Jew, but possibly even of the same tribe, Benjamin, as Paul was. This can’t be certain however. The name Herodion also may lead to the family of Herod mentioned in the Gospels. This also is only conjecture, but the name may imply this.

After Herodion, Paul next asks for greetings for “those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.” Again, speculation must enter into exactly what this means, but a good guess is that Narcissus was either dead, famous, or otherwise noted. In his house, and in a such a state, some of the people there were believers, but not all. Whoever he was or whatever his state, he was well known enough by name to generate this type of note.

Life application: There is nothing wrong with identifying people who are close to you in an elevated manner. This doesn’t mean they are somehow better than others, but they are of note to you. Paul has been careful to make mention of others in a way which brings people to mind while still not diminishing anyone that he may fail to acknowledge.

Lord, you have given me many tasks to accomplish throughout my days. Help me to prioritize them in a way which will make the most effective use of my time. But help me to remember that each thing I do should bring honor to Your name. May I not be slack in fulfilling all the things that I should. I wish to use this one life to serve You to the utmost. Help me in this, Lord. Amen.

Saturday, 15 February 2014

Greet Apelles, approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus. Romans 16:10

Paul next requests greetings be extended to Apelles. Like many others, this is the only time he is mentioned in Scripture, but what an honor to be singled out of a congregation, recognized by the hand of the great Apostle, and be eternally recorded in God’s superior word! But not all mentioned in the Bible are mentioned favorably. In fact, many times the opposite is true. And so the honor to Apelles is even greater because he is noted as one “approved in Christ.”

The Greek word used to describe him is dokimon, meaning a type of approval which indicates “testing.” His faith was tried, it was tested, and he proved faithful in the test. We can speculate all day as to what type of test he was given – loss of family or work, torture or imprisonment, etc. But whatever it was, it was enough to have Paul single him out as having passed the test. May we be found so worthy and so noted!

After Apelles, Paul next requests greetings for “those who are of the household of Aristobulus.” This may seem curious, but there are several possibilities that would precipitate such a comment as this –

1) Aristobulus, though not being a believer, could have been extremely well known in Rome. Those in his household then would be those who were either family or slaves who had received Christ.
2) Aristobulus, whether a believer or not, could already be dead. If this is the case, then greeting only those who are of his household would make sense.
3) Aristobulus could be a noted Christian evangelist or missionary from Rome, but living away from Rome. If so, then it wouldn’t make sense to greet him along with his household.

For one of these, or whatever other reason, the household of Aristobulus is singled out for a hearty greeting while not greeting him specifically.

Life application: Paul took time to remember those who were under other’s authority even if he didn’t mention them by name. Pastors have families, missionaries have children, etc. If you are greeting one, then take time to greet all. They will remember and take to heart that someone cared enough to think of them as well.

Glorious and perfect Savior. Should I face a test of my faith, will my conduct be found acceptable in Your sight? Do I have the strength to live out the life I have claimed? You have said that those who follow You will face trials and hardships and I want to be ready each time they come. Strengthen me now Lord for those trials which lay ahead so that I will only bring You glory in the eyes of others. Amen.

Friday, 14 February 2014

Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. Romans 16:9

Paul next takes the time to note a city boy and a country bumpkin. Urbanus means “belonging to the city” or “city-bred”  and Stachys means “ear of grain.” Urbanus was a rather common Roman name and was even the name used by 8 different popes of the Roman Catholic Church. On the other hand Stachys is a Greek name and references to it are far less common in ancient literature.

Extra-biblical writings note that both of these men continued on in their work for the Lord. Urbanus is believed to maybe have been an early pastor of the church in Rome, and Stachys is said by John Gill to have been one of the original 70 disciples mentioned in Luke 10:1, and that he further became a bishop of Byzantium.

However, these two are only noted here in Scripture. Urbanus is noted by Paul as “our fellow worker in Christ.” Whatever his work, he was there with the apostles or others helping out behind the scenes. Stachys is noted as “my beloved” which indicates a special note of friendliness and devotion.

Life application: God uses people of all sorts to accomplish His work. Regardless of where you are from, what has occurred in your past, or what your social standing is, or even what you do for a living, there is always a use for you. Allow the Lord to become you driving motivation in all things.

Heavenly Father, since receiving Jesus as my Lord, I’ve had many different jobs. Some were menial and some were stuffy, but I was able to use my surroundings to tell others about You. I would pray that anyone who feels they have no value or ability in spiritual matters to put such notions aside and to realize that they are exactly where You want them and that You have a good plan and purpose for them. Amen.

Thursday, 13 February 2014

Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. Romans 16:8

Various texts state “Ampliatus” in place of Amplias. Regardless of the actual spelling of his name, or if Amplias is simply a shortened nickname of Ampliatus, this is the only place in the Bible where he is mentioned, but he is given an especially endearing description by Paul, “my beloved in the Lord.” Four times in this chapter the term “beloved” is used by him. Out of approximately 35 names, this then shows that there was more than just a passing friendship, but one of intimacy.

It could be that Paul led him to Christ or that they worked together for the gospel. Whatever the situation, Paul is using up the writer’s ink with memos of affection as he progresses through his list of notables.

Life application: Time moves steadily forward and we don’t know when our last day will come. Nor do we know the end of those around us. Because of this, it is good to take a moment and recognize those who are near and dear to us. Take a minute today to send a note of encouragement to someone who is dear to you.

Heavenly Father, I am so grateful for those You have placed in my path. Old friends show up again after many years and new friends come my way. And it always seems to be at a time when I need them to bless me or they need to be blessed. I can see Your hand in these things.  You are there working to build up Your people. How great You are. Amen.