How can we greet fellow believers with love as in Romans 16:15? Reading the Verse Together “Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas and all the saints with them.” (Romans 16:15) An ordinary line of farewells—yet rich with lessons on how love is expressed in simple greetings. A Personal, Name-Knowing Love • Paul lists five believers by name. Love remembers specifics. • Jesus models this: “He calls His own sheep by name and leads them out.” (John 10:3) • Learning and using names says, “You are known, noticed, and valued.” Inclusive Warmth for “All the Saints” • After naming individuals, Paul adds “all the saints with them.” No one left on the fringe. • “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you.” (Romans 15:7) • Intentionally fold newcomers, children, seniors, and the quiet into your greeting circle. Family Affection, Not Mere Formality • First-century believers used a “holy kiss” (Romans 16:16). Today that may be a warm handshake, hug, or fist-bump—whatever communicates sincere affection without causing discomfort. • “Love one another deeply, from a pure heart.” (1 Peter 1:22) • Body language matters: eye contact, a smile, an unhurried posture. Practical Ways to Practice a Romans 16:15 Greeting – Arrive early or linger after worship to engage rather than rush. – Memorize two new names each week; jot them down if needed. – Send a quick mid-week text: “Thinking of you—how can I encourage you?” – Write a short note or card for birthdays, baptisms, or hard seasons. – Invite someone for coffee or a meal and ask about their story. – When traveling, bring greetings back to your home church (cf. 1 Corinthians 16:20). Keeping the Focus on Christ Himself • Our welcome is “holy” because it is rooted in Jesus’ work, not mere friendliness. • “Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints send you greetings.” (2 Corinthians 13:12) • Speak words that point to Christ’s grace—“I’m thankful the Lord put you in our fellowship.” An Ongoing Habit, Not a One-Time Event • “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds… encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Consistency turns greetings into community: week after week, season after season, until personal warmth becomes the culture of the church. Love in Christ can be as simple—and as powerful—as greeting every fellow saint by name, with genuine affection, and welcoming them into the family circle. |
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