Wednesday, 19 February 2014
Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren who are with them. Romans 16:14
Five more names are given in today’s verse. Nothing more is known about any of them except a few extra-biblical sources which may or may not be accurate. However, it does note that Paul asks for greetings to them “and the brethren who are with them.” This then could mean that they were leaders of individual home churches or gatherings. If this is so, it would be like writing a letter to the people of Sarasota, Florida and recognizing individual churches by noting the pastors.
This isn’t uncommon even today within larger denominations or among non-church organizations and so it is a distinct and even likely possibility. Because Paul knew them individually, he may have met with them and encouraged them to start a home church or group as they traveled back home to Rome. Whatever the case, Paul wanted them to be greeted.
Life application: Taking note of the leader of an organization often implies greeting the people within that organization. Should you address a group however, an additional few words such as “those who meet with you” will make those within the group feel welcome. Paul was careful to be attentive to such things and we should make a note of it and apply it as well.
Lord God, in the town I live in are many churches with different styles and approaches to teaching Your word. I would like to pray for those churches who hold sacred its contents, faithfully proclaim its truths, and are willing to stand on the doctrines it clearly proclaims. Thank You for providing such faithful preachers and teachers to cover my town with the wonder of Your superior word. Amen.