How does Romans 16:22 connect with other scriptures on Christian collaboration? An Unexpected Signature of Teamwork Romans 16:22: “I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the Lord.” • One short sentence, yet it pulls back the curtain on how Paul’s letter actually reached Rome: Paul spoke, Tertius transcribed, and both shared the greeting. • The Spirit-inspired words flowed through more than one servant, underscoring that gospel ministry is rarely a solo endeavor. Behind Paul’s Pen: Tertius’ Role • Amanuensis—Tertius handled the physical writing, freeing Paul to dictate. • Co-laborer—by adding his own greeting, he steps out of anonymity, reminding us that “less visible” roles matter. • Evidence of trust—Paul entrusts sacred truth to Tertius’ careful hand, showing how spiritual authority and practical skill blend in ministry. Parallel Snapshots of Collaborative Ministry • 1 Corinthians 3:6-9: “I planted the seed and Apollos watered it, but God made it grow” … “For we are God’s fellow workers.” – Different tasks, same harvest. • Colossians 4:7-14: a roll-call of Tychicus, Onesimus, Aristarchus, Mark, Justus, Epaphras, Luke, Demas—eight names proving Paul never ministered alone. • Acts 13:2-3: the church in Antioch “set apart” Barnabas and Saul together, then laid hands on them as a team. • 3 John 8: “Therefore we ought to support such men, so that we may be fellow workers for the truth.” • 2 Timothy 4:11: “Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me in ministry.” Past rifts (Acts 15:38-40) healed for future work. • Ephesians 4:16: “From Him the whole body, fitted and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” Shared Grace, Shared Labor Notice the rhythm: 1. God calls (Acts 13:2). 2. The church affirms and sends (Acts 13:3). 3. Various gifts function in harmony—teaching, writing, hosting, traveling (Romans 16 entire list). 4. All credit returns to God for the increase (1 Corinthians 3:7). The Spiritual Symphony: Diversity under One Lord • Writers like Tertius • Strategic thinkers like Paul • Encouragers like Barnabas • Physicians like Luke • Hospitable believers like Phoebe (Romans 16:1-2) • Prayer warriors like Epaphras (Colossians 4:12) Together they illustrate Philippians 1:5, “your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” Practical Takeaways for Today • Value unseen service—the “Tertius tasks” of note-taking, scheduling, tech support. • Seek healthy interdependence—no ministry gift is self-sufficient (1 Peter 4:10). • Restore strained partnerships—Paul’s reunion with Mark shows that yesterday’s disappointments need not define tomorrow’s mission. • Keep Christ at the center—only “in the Lord” (Romans 16:22) does collaboration become kingdom fruit rather than mere teamwork. |
    |