What is the meaning of Romans 16:14? Greet Paul writes, “Greet …” (Romans 16:14). • This is an imperative, urging the Roman believers to extend personal acknowledgment and affection. • Scripture consistently treats greetings as acts of spiritual fellowship (2 John 1:13; 3 John 1:14; 1 Corinthians 16:19–20). • A simple greeting reinforces unity in Christ (Ephesians 4:3) and honors each person’s place in the body (1 Corinthians 12:22–26). Asyncritus • Though otherwise unknown, his name is forever preserved in God’s Word (Isaiah 56:5). • His inclusion shows that public recognition is not reserved for the well-known but for every faithful servant (Hebrews 6:10). Phlegon • Another believer about whom Scripture says nothing else, yet Paul knows him by name (John 10:3). • His mention illustrates that shepherding involves personal care, not mere statistics (Acts 20:28). Hermes • Probably a common name among slaves in Rome; his greeting underscores the gospel’s reach across social lines (Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:11). • In Christ, significance is measured by faithfulness, not status (Luke 16:10). Patrobas • Tradition places him later as a church leader, but Paul’s greeting already treats him as a valued brother (Romans 12:10). • The verse models how encouragement can anticipate future usefulness (2 Timothy 1:5–6). Hermas • Like the others, he is singled out for recognition, reminding us that God’s work is done through many “living stones” (1 Peter 2:5). • Whatever his specific ministry, he exemplifies dependable partnership (Philippians 2:25). and the brothers with them • Paul widens the greeting to the larger house-church or ministry circle (Philemon 1:2; Colossians 4:15). • This clause highlights corporate identity: each small group is part of the one universal church (1 Corinthians 1:2). • It also shows how leadership naturally gathers others—faithful believers tend to reproduce faithfulness (2 Timothy 2:2). summary Romans 16:14 is more than a roll call; it showcases the warmth, equality, and interconnectedness of believers who serve Christ together. Paul’s brief command to “Greet” these six men and their companions teaches the value of personal acknowledgment, the honor God places on every servant, and the unity that binds diverse believers into one family. |
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