Romans 16 Commentary: Greetings, Warnings, and Praise
I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea:
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.
Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:
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.
Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.
Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.
Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.
Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.
Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.
Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus’ household.
Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord.
Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord.
Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.
Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them.
Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints which are with them.
Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
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.
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.
And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you.
I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord.
Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
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,
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:
To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. Written to the Romans from Corinthus, and sent by Phebe servant of the church at Cenchrea.
Romans 16 is the grand finale of Paul's letter to the Roman Christians. It’s a chapter brimming with personal greetings, a sharp warning against false teachers, warm salutations from Paul's companions, and a soaring doxology that encapsulates the very heart of the gospel. This chapter not only reveals Paul's deep connection to the believers in Rome, even before his visit, but also reinforces the core themes of his letter: unity in diversity and the power of the gospel to transform lives. Let's delve into the rich tapestry of Romans 16, exploring its meaning and its message for us today.
A Network of Faith: Personal Greetings (Romans 16:1-16)
Paul begins by commending Phoebe (Romans 16:1-2), a servant of the church in Cenchreae, near Corinth. She is likely the bearer of this very letter. Paul uses the word for "servant" that is elsewhere translated as "deacon," suggesting Phoebe held an official and significant role in her church. He describes her as a "patron" or "benefactor" to many, including himself, highlighting her generosity and leadership. Welcoming and assisting such individuals is a testament to the church's support for those dedicated to ministry. Phoebe's example underscores the vital role women played in the early church, serving with distinction under male authority and contributing significantly to God's kingdom.
Next, Paul extends greetings to Prisca (or Priscilla) and Aquila (Romans 16:3-4), a married couple who were close collaborators with Paul in ministry and tentmaking. They had previously been expelled from Rome due to a decree against Jews but apparently returned after the ban was lifted. Paul acknowledges their dedication, noting that they risked their lives for him. Also, he greets Epaenetus, described as the first convert to Christ in Achaia, where Priscilla and Aquila ministered.
The rest of Paul's greetings encompass a diverse array of individuals (Romans 16:5-16), many of whom we know little about outside this list. Some were likely slaves, others members of royal households, and still others close friends. What is striking is the diversity within this community. We find ethnic diversity (Jewish and Gentile believers), gender diversity (prominent women like Mary, Junia, Tryphaena, Tryphosa, and Julia), and even class diversity (those from prominent households alongside those who likely owned nothing). Despite their diverse backgrounds, origins, and skills, all these individuals co-labored with Paul in the ministry of the gospel. As Paul repeatedly emphasizes, they worked very hard in the Lord (Romans 16:12). This section serves as a powerful example of unity within diversity, showcasing the inclusive nature of the early church. It reminds us that the body of Christ is enriched by the unique contributions of all its members, regardless of their background.
A Call to Discernment: Warning Against False Teachers (Romans 16:17-20)
Even amidst these warm greetings, Paul issues a stark warning (Romans 16:17-20) against those who create divisions and obstacles contrary to the doctrine the Roman Christians had learned. He urges them to "watch out" for these individuals, recognizing them by their divisive behavior and distorted teachings. These false teachers serve their own appetites rather than Christ, using smooth talk and flattery to deceive and lead astray the naive.
Paul's warning underscores the fragility of unity and the ever-present threat of deception. He emphasizes the importance of discernment, urging believers to be vigilant in guarding against false teachings that can undermine the gospel and disrupt the church's harmony. Such deceivers are not merely annoyances; they are tools of Satan. Yet, Paul offers hope: "The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet" (Romans 16:20). As the Word of God prevails and the church is strengthened, God's victory over Satan is increasingly manifested.
Greetings from Corinth: A Team Effort (Romans 16:21-24)
Paul then conveys greetings from his companions in Corinth (Romans 16:21-23), including Timothy, his long-time ministry partner and student. The presence of these fellow workers highlights Paul's collaborative approach to ministry. He consistently worked with a team, demonstrating the importance of partnership and mutual support in spreading the gospel.
It's worth noting that verse 24, which repeats the statement from verse 20, is absent from many modern translations, likely being a later addition to the text.
A Glorious Conclusion: Doxology (Romans 16:25-27)
Paul concludes his letter with a magnificent doxology (Romans 16:25-27), a hymn of praise to God. This doxology encapsulates the essence of the gospel message, praising God for revealing the long-hidden mystery of Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that this gospel, "my gospel," is the authoritative truth about Jesus, calling the Romans to embrace it wholeheartedly. He points out that this revelation was promised in the prophetic Scriptures and made known to all nations, leading to obedience of faith.
The doxology echoes the opening of Romans, reminding us that Paul's message is rooted in God's plan and purpose. Paul prays that God would strengthen them according to his gospel (Romans 16:25), a gospel revealed and made known through the prophetic Scriptures (Romans 16:26). It culminates in a powerful declaration: "to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen" (Romans 16:27). This final statement underscores that history is His story, and our lives exist to bring Him glory.
Romans 16 serves as a fitting conclusion to this profound letter, reminding us of the importance of community, discernment, and unwavering faith in the God who has revealed Himself through Jesus Christ. May we, like the believers in Rome, embrace the gospel, live in unity, and bring glory to God forevermore.
I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea:
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.
Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:
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.
Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.
Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.
Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.
Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.
Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.
Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus’ household.
Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord.
Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord.
Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.
Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them.
Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints which are with them.
Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
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.
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.
And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you.
I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord.
Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
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,
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:
To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. Written to the Romans from Corinthus, and sent by Phebe servant of the church at Cenchrea.
Romans 16 is the grand finale of Paul's letter to the Roman Christians. It’s a chapter brimming with personal greetings, a sharp warning against false teachers, warm salutations from Paul's companions, and a soaring doxology that encapsulates the very heart of the gospel. This chapter not only reveals Paul's deep connection to the believers in Rome, even before his visit, but also reinforces the core themes of his letter: unity in diversity and the power of the gospel to transform lives. Let's delve into the rich tapestry of Romans 16, exploring its meaning and its message for us today.
A Network of Faith: Personal Greetings (Romans 16:1-16)
Paul begins by commending Phoebe (Romans 16:1-2), a servant of the church in Cenchreae, near Corinth. She is likely the bearer of this very letter. Paul uses the word for "servant" that is elsewhere translated as "deacon," suggesting Phoebe held an official and significant role in her church. He describes her as a "patron" or "benefactor" to many, including himself, highlighting her generosity and leadership. Welcoming and assisting such individuals is a testament to the church's support for those dedicated to ministry. Phoebe's example underscores the vital role women played in the early church, serving with distinction under male authority and contributing significantly to God's kingdom.
Next, Paul extends greetings to Prisca (or Priscilla) and Aquila (Romans 16:3-4), a married couple who were close collaborators with Paul in ministry and tentmaking. They had previously been expelled from Rome due to a decree against Jews but apparently returned after the ban was lifted. Paul acknowledges their dedication, noting that they risked their lives for him. Also, he greets Epaenetus, described as the first convert to Christ in Achaia, where Priscilla and Aquila ministered.
The rest of Paul's greetings encompass a diverse array of individuals (Romans 16:5-16), many of whom we know little about outside this list. Some were likely slaves, others members of royal households, and still others close friends. What is striking is the diversity within this community. We find ethnic diversity (Jewish and Gentile believers), gender diversity (prominent women like Mary, Junia, Tryphaena, Tryphosa, and Julia), and even class diversity (those from prominent households alongside those who likely owned nothing). Despite their diverse backgrounds, origins, and skills, all these individuals co-labored with Paul in the ministry of the gospel. As Paul repeatedly emphasizes, they worked very hard in the Lord (Romans 16:12). This section serves as a powerful example of unity within diversity, showcasing the inclusive nature of the early church. It reminds us that the body of Christ is enriched by the unique contributions of all its members, regardless of their background.
A Call to Discernment: Warning Against False Teachers (Romans 16:17-20)
Even amidst these warm greetings, Paul issues a stark warning (Romans 16:17-20) against those who create divisions and obstacles contrary to the doctrine the Roman Christians had learned. He urges them to "watch out" for these individuals, recognizing them by their divisive behavior and distorted teachings. These false teachers serve their own appetites rather than Christ, using smooth talk and flattery to deceive and lead astray the naive.
Paul's warning underscores the fragility of unity and the ever-present threat of deception. He emphasizes the importance of discernment, urging believers to be vigilant in guarding against false teachings that can undermine the gospel and disrupt the church's harmony. Such deceivers are not merely annoyances; they are tools of Satan. Yet, Paul offers hope: "The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet" (Romans 16:20). As the Word of God prevails and the church is strengthened, God's victory over Satan is increasingly manifested.
Greetings from Corinth: A Team Effort (Romans 16:21-24)
Paul then conveys greetings from his companions in Corinth (Romans 16:21-23), including Timothy, his long-time ministry partner and student. The presence of these fellow workers highlights Paul's collaborative approach to ministry. He consistently worked with a team, demonstrating the importance of partnership and mutual support in spreading the gospel.
It's worth noting that verse 24, which repeats the statement from verse 20, is absent from many modern translations, likely being a later addition to the text.
A Glorious Conclusion: Doxology (Romans 16:25-27)
Paul concludes his letter with a magnificent doxology (Romans 16:25-27), a hymn of praise to God. This doxology encapsulates the essence of the gospel message, praising God for revealing the long-hidden mystery of Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that this gospel, "my gospel," is the authoritative truth about Jesus, calling the Romans to embrace it wholeheartedly. He points out that this revelation was promised in the prophetic Scriptures and made known to all nations, leading to obedience of faith.
The doxology echoes the opening of Romans, reminding us that Paul's message is rooted in God's plan and purpose. Paul prays that God would strengthen them according to his gospel (Romans 16:25), a gospel revealed and made known through the prophetic Scriptures (Romans 16:26). It culminates in a powerful declaration: "to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen" (Romans 16:27). This final statement underscores that history is His story, and our lives exist to bring Him glory.
Romans 16 serves as a fitting conclusion to this profound letter, reminding us of the importance of community, discernment, and unwavering faith in the God who has revealed Himself through Jesus Christ. May we, like the believers in Rome, embrace the gospel, live in unity, and bring glory to God forevermore.