How does Romans 16:11 connect with honoring elders in 1 Timothy 5:17? Setting the scene • Romans 16 is Paul’s closing roll call of greetings. • Romans 16:11 — “Greet Herodion, my kinsman. Greet those in the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.” • 1 Timothy 5:17 — “Elders who lead effectively are worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.” Paul’s brief line to Herodion and the household of Narcissus may feel perfunctory, yet it reflects a Spirit-inspired pattern: publicly recognizing believers who serve faithfully, and especially those who lead. Honor running through Paul’s greetings • Personal acknowledgment — “my kinsman” signals close bond and respect. • Corporate acknowledgment — an entire household noted “in the Lord,” suggesting a community of faith likely guided by older, seasoned believers. • Consistent emphasis — Romans 16 lists more than twenty names; each greeting is an act of honor that models what Paul later codifies in 1 Timothy 5:17. From greeting to double honor 1. Same apostle, same principle • The Spirit who led Paul to name Herodion is the same Spirit who later says, “double honor” for elders. • Honoring leaders wasn’t an afterthought—it was embedded in Paul’s ministry rhythm. 2. Public recognition matters • Romans 16 shows public greeting; 1 Timothy 5 shows public remuneration and esteem. • Both passages teach that honor is conveyed verbally and materially. 3. Focus on those who labor • Herodion and Narcissus’ household likely carried weight in the Roman church. • 1 Timothy 5 singles out elders who “work hard at preaching and teaching.” • The thread: diligent service draws intentional honor. A wider biblical chorus • Romans 13:7 — “pay… honor to whom honor is due.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 — “respect those who labor among you… esteem them very highly in love.” • Hebrews 13:7 — “remember your leaders… imitate their faith.” • Proverbs 3:27 — “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due.” Together with Romans 16:11 and 1 Timothy 5:17, these texts build a unified call to honor spiritual fathers and mothers. Practical takeaways • Name and notice — follow Paul’s example by publicly thanking faithful leaders. • Provide materially — “double honor” includes fair support; budget for it. • Cultivate a culture of gratitude — let households, not just individuals, feel valued. • Keep the circle wide — honor veteran elders and fresh servants alike, just as Paul lists both well-known and lesser-known believers in Romans 16. • Remember the motive — honoring leaders ultimately honors Christ, the true Head of the church (Colossians 1:18). |
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