Romans - Chapter 16

Romans 16.1 I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: Romans 16.2 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. Romans 16.3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: Romans 16.4 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. Romans 16.5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my well-beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ. Romans 16.6 Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us. Romans 16.7 Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. Romans 16.8 Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord. Romans 16.9 Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved. Romans 16.10 Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus’ household. Romans 16.11 Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord. Romans 16.12 Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord. Romans 16.13 Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. Romans 16.14 Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them. Romans 16.15 Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints which are with them. Romans 16.16 Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you. Romans 16.17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. Romans 16.18 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. Romans 16.19 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. Romans 16.20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. Romans 16.21 Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you. Romans 16.22 I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord. Romans 16.23 Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother. Romans 16.24 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. Romans 16.25 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, Romans 16.26 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: Romans 16.27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.

Romans : Chapter 16

Reflections on Romans Chapter 16

Romans chapter 16 invites us to a deep meditation on the personal greetings and final admonitions of the apostle Paul. Through these passages, several essential lessons emerge, offering us an enriching perspective on Christian community and the preservation of doctrine.

Connections Within the Early Church

Paul mentions numerous contributors, highlighting the crucial role of women and homes in the early church. These references testify to the importance of personal relationships and mutual support in the faith. Each greeting is a recognition of the commitment of community members, thus highlighting the value of individual contributions to the collective well-being of the Church.

Warnings Against False Teachers

The text of Romans 16 also warns against false teachers and divisions. Paul emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine, essential for the sustainability of the Christian faith. This warning reminds every believer of the need to discern the truth and to be rooted in apostolic teaching so as not to be led astray by erroneous doctrines.

The Doxology of Divine Wisdom

The chapter concludes with a magnificent doxology, paying homage to the infinite wisdom of God. This praise invites us to recognize the greatness of our Creator and to give Him glory for His work in our lives.

Meditation on Related Bible Passages

We invite you to meditate on five biblical passages related to the themes addressed in Romans 16:

1 Corinthians 16:20

"All the brothers send greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss." This verse reflects fraternal greetings similar to those Paul addresses in Romans 16, illustrating a common practice in the early churches.

Colossians 4:15

"Greet the brothers who are in Laodicea, and the nymphs, and the church that is gathered in his house." As in Romans 16, Paul here greets specific individuals and house churches, emphasizing the importance of community gatherings.

Philippians 4:22

"Greet all the saints, especially those in Caesar's palace." This verse, like Romans 16, demonstrates how Paul connected different Christian communities through his greetings, testifying to the unity of faith.

Jude 1:24-25

"Now to Him who is able to keep them from falling and to present them spotless before His glorious presence with great joy, to the one God our Savior, be glory, majesty, power, and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all time, now and forevermore. Amen." This doxology shares similarities with the one Paul uses to conclude Romans en 16:25-27, reminding us of the greatness of our Savior.

Galatians 1:8-9

"But even if we or an angel from heaven preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be accursed!" This warning against false teaching resonates with Paul's admonition in Romans 16:17-18, reinforcing the importance of clinging to the truth of the gospel.

By meditating on these passages, we are invited to strengthen our commitment to the truth of the gospel and to cultivate authentic connections within our faith community.