How does Romans 16:7 connect with other scriptures on honoring church leaders? Setting the Scene in Romans 16:7 “Greet Andronicus and Junias, my fellow kinsmen and fellow prisoners; they are outstanding among the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was.” ( Romans 16:7 ) • Paul pauses his letter to single out two seasoned believers. • He calls them “outstanding among the apostles,” openly honoring their service and seniority in the faith. • By noting that they “were in Christ before I was,” Paul places himself beneath them in spiritual longevity, modeling respect for those who have gone before. How Paul’s Greeting Echoes Other Commands to Honor Leaders Scripture consistently reinforces the pattern Paul demonstrates: • 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 — “Acknowledge those who labor among you… Esteem them very highly in love because of their work.” • Hebrews 13:7 — “Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you… imitate their faith.” • Hebrews 13:17 — “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls.” • 1 Timothy 5:17 — “The elders who lead well are worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” • Philippians 2:29-30 — Epaphroditus is to be “welcomed… with great joy, and honor men like him.” • Galatians 6:6 — “The one who is taught the word must share all good things with the one who teaches.” Paul’s salute to Andronicus and Junias isn’t an isolated courtesy; it is the lived-out expression of these commands. Why This Honor Matters • It acknowledges God’s order in the church. • It protects unity by encouraging gratitude rather than rivalry. • It motivates leaders to keep serving faithfully, knowing their labor is recognized. • It teaches younger believers a culture of respect that will outlast individual ministries. Practical Ways to Follow Paul’s Example Today • Speak well of faithful pastors, elders, missionaries, and veteran saints when you introduce them. • Publicly recount their sacrifices and milestones, just as Paul highlighted Andronicus and Junias. • Offer tangible support—hospitality, financial gifts, or time—so honor moves beyond words (Galatians 6:6). • Share testimonies of how their teaching has shaped your walk, echoing Hebrews 13:7’s call to “consider the outcome of their way of life.” • Encourage the next generation to learn from seasoned believers, reminding them, “they were in Christ before us.” The greeting of Romans 16:7, simple though it is, fits seamlessly into the wider biblical tapestry that calls God’s people to esteem, support, and joyfully honor those who lead and labor among them. |
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