What is the meaning of Romans 16:10? Greet Apelles Paul writes, “Greet Apelles…” (Romans 16:10). • Paul names Apelles personally, signaling a known, faithful believer whose testimony mattered to the Roman church. • Individual greetings highlight how the Lord values each member of the body (cf. John 10:3, “He calls His own sheep by name”). • By instructing the church to greet him, Paul models tangible love and unity (cf. 1 Peter 5:14, “Greet one another with a kiss of love”). • The verse reminds us to recognize and affirm brothers and sisters who serve quietly yet faithfully, just as Apelles apparently had done. who is approved in Christ “…who is approved in Christ.” • “Approved” points to tested and proven character (cf. James 1:12, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has withstood the test, he will receive the crown of life”). • The approval comes “in Christ,” underscoring that any commendation rests on union with Jesus, not personal merit (cf. Galatians 2:20). • Apelles’ trials likely refined his faith; Paul publicly acknowledges God’s stamp of approval on that endurance (cf. 2 Timothy 2:15, “Present yourself approved to God”). • This encourages believers facing hardship: faithfulness under pressure is noticed by God and should be celebrated by the church. Greet those who belong to the household of Aristobulus “Greet those who belong to the household of Aristobulus.” • Paul now greets a group rather than an individual, showing that whole households can become centers of gospel influence (cf. Acts 16:15, 34; 1 Corinthians 1:16). • Some members of Aristobulus’s household are evidently believers, even if the head himself may not be; the gospel penetrates every social layer (cf. Philippians 4:22, “All the saints greet you, especially those from Caesar’s household”). • Recognizing believers within a larger secular context encourages courage and witness for those living out their faith in challenging environments. • This greeting also underscores the early church’s diversity—Jews, Gentiles, freedmen, and slaves worshiping side by side (cf. Colossians 3:11). summary Romans 16:10 spotlights Apelles, proven through trials, and the faithful within Aristobulus’s household. Paul’s greetings teach us to honor steadfast believers, to see testing as God’s pathway to approval, and to remember that the gospel flourishes in individuals and households alike. |
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