How can we apply Romans 16:14 in building relationships with other believers? Seeing Relationship in a Simple Greeting “Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brothers with them.” (Romans 16:14) Observations from Romans 16:14 • A personal, named greeting highlights individual value. • Paul shows awareness of smaller circles (“the brothers with them”), recognizing house-church clusters inside the larger church. • The greeting is public and affectionate, modeling openness rather than cliques. • Every name—however obscure—receives the same honor as the better-known believers in the chapter. Practical Ways to Apply This Greeting Today • Learn and use names. – Move beyond “brother” or “sister” to intentional, personal acknowledgment. • Affirm unseen ministry circles. – Celebrate Bible-study hosts, sound-booth volunteers, nursery teams. • Cultivate inclusive language. – Say “all of you” or “everyone on that team” when thanking people publicly, so no one feels invisible. • Practice visible honor. – Write short notes, send texts, or mention believers by name during announcements. • Bridge house-church or small-group boundaries. – Visit another group occasionally; invite their members to yours for shared meals. • Keep greetings warm and public. – Arrive early to speak with people in the foyer; linger after service for hallway conversations. • Maintain consistency. – Don’t let greetings depend on mood; reflect Christ’s constancy (John 13:1). Supporting Scriptures That Echo the Same Heart • 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up…” • Hebrews 10:24-25 – “…not neglecting to meet together, but encouraging one another…” • 3 John 1:14 – “Greet the friends by name.” • Philippians 2:3 – “In humility consider others more important than yourselves.” Taking the First Step • This week pick three believers whose names rarely surface in public settings. • Greet them personally, mention something specific about their service, and include them intentionally in conversation circles. • Watch how a simple, heartfelt greeting softens hearts, tightens bonds, and mirrors the family warmth modeled in Romans 16:14. |
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