1 I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea:
2 That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.
3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:
4 Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.
5 Likewise [greet] the church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.
6 Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.
7 Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.
8 Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.
9 Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.
10 Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus’ [household].
11 Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the [household] of Narcissus, which are in the Lord.
12 Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord.
13 Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.
14 Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them.
15 Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints which are with them.
16 Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.
17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.
19 For your obedience is come abroad unto all [men]. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.
20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen.
21 Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you.
22 I Tertius, who wrote [this] epistle, salute you in the Lord.
23 Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother.
24 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you all. Amen.
25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,
26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
27 To God only wise, [be] glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.
Overview of Romans Chapter 16
Romans Chapter 16 serves as the concluding chapter of the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans. It is notable for its personal greetings, commendations, and final exhortations. The chapter reflects Paul’s deep relationships with the early Christian community in Rome and emphasizes the importance of unity and support among believers.
Key Themes
- Community and Relationships: Paul highlights various individuals, showcasing the interconnectedness of the Christian community.
- Service and Ministry: The chapter emphasizes the roles of various individuals in ministry, illustrating the diverse ways people contribute to the church.
- Warning Against Division: Paul cautions against false teachings and divisions within the church, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith.
- Grace and Benediction: The chapter concludes with a prayer for grace, emphasizing the importance of God’s unmerited favor in the life of believers.
Detailed Analysis
Personal Greetings
Paul begins the chapter by sending greetings to a number of individuals, which serves to personalize the letter and demonstrate his affection for the Roman church.
- Phebe: Paul commends Phebe, a deaconess of the church in Cenchreae, and asks the Roman believers to receive her warmly. This highlights the role of women in ministry.
- Priscilla and Aquila: This couple is recognized for their significant contributions to the early church and their support of Paul. Their inclusion underscores the importance of teamwork in ministry.
- Andronicus and Junia: Paul refers to them as “outstanding among the apostles,” indicating their prominent role in the early church and their shared imprisonment with Paul.
- Urbanus and Stachys: These individuals are noted for their labor in the Lord, further emphasizing the theme of service.
Exhortation to Unity
In verses 17-20, Paul issues a stern warning against those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the teachings of Christ. He encourages the church to be watchful and to avoid such individuals.
- Characteristics of Dividers: Paul describes them as people who do not serve Christ but rather their own appetites.
- Call for Discernment: Believers are urged to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil, emphasizing the need for spiritual discernment.
Final Greetings and Benediction
The chapter concludes with a series of final greetings from Paul and others, reinforcing the communal aspect of the faith. Paul’s benediction in verses 25-27 encapsulates the essence of the letter.
- God’s Power: Paul emphasizes the power of God to establish believers according to the gospel.
- Revelation of Mystery: He speaks of the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages, highlighting the unfolding plan of salvation.
- Call to Obedience: The chapter ends with a call to obedience of faith, connecting the believer’s response to God’s grace.
Conclusion
Romans Chapter 16 encapsulates the relational and communal aspects of the early church while providing essential warnings and encouragements. It serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, service, and the grace of God in the life of believers. Paul’s personal connections with the individuals mentioned reflect the heart of pastoral care and the significance of each member within the body of Christ.
