What qualities might have led Paul to call Stachys "my beloved"? Setting the Scene in Romans 16:9 “Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my beloved Stachys.” (Romans 16:9) Paul’s closing chapter to the Romans is filled with rapid-fire greetings. Every mention is intentional, so the tender phrase “my beloved” shines like a spotlight on Stachys. Exploring the Word “Beloved” • Greek ἀγαπητός (agapetos) points to covenant love—costly, self-giving, rooted in Christ. • Paul uses the same word of Timothy (1 Corinthians 4:17) and Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:25). These were men he trusted deeply. • God the Father calls Jesus “My beloved Son” (Matthew 3:17). The term signals highest affection and approval. Possible Qualities Evident in Stachys’ Life Because Scripture is accurate and literal, the title “my beloved” must rest on observable character. Paul likely saw several traits: • Whole-hearted faith in Christ – Colossians 1:4: “we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love you have for all the saints.” – A “beloved” saint stands out for genuine trust in the gospel. • Loyal partnership in ministry – Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” – Paul prized companions who stayed the course (cf. 2 Timothy 4:11 re: Luke). • Tireless service – Romans 16 praises many who “worked hard in the Lord” (v. 12). Stachys likely labored similarly, earning affectionate respect. – 1 Corinthians 15:58 urges “abounding in the work of the Lord”; Stachys apparently modeled this. • Christ-like love for others – John 13:34: “Love one another. Just as I have loved you.” – Paul would naturally love one who was already loving the flock. • Humble spirit – 1 Peter 5:5: “clothe yourselves with humility toward one another.” – Humility attracts godly affection and trust. • Encouraging presence – Hebrews 10:24–25 calls believers to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Those who refresh weary apostles become especially dear (cf. Onesiphorus, 2 Timothy 1:16). • Proven character under trial – Romans 5:4 links suffering to proven character. – Church tradition places Stachys in Rome during seasons of persecution, suggesting steadfast courage. Links to Other “Beloved” Co-Workers By comparing Paul’s other uses of “beloved,” we see a pattern: • Tychicus—“the beloved brother and faithful servant” (Ephesians 6:21). • Onesimus—“our faithful and beloved brother” (Colossians 4:9). • Philemon—“our beloved fellow worker” (Philemon 1). Each blends faithfulness, service, and personal warmth; Stachys most likely shared the same mix. Living These Qualities Today • Cultivate unhypocritical faith (2 Timothy 1:5). • Stand by gospel coworkers through thick and thin. • Serve the body tirelessly, yet joyfully. • Let love be the default reaction (Romans 12:10). • Choose humility over self-promotion (James 4:6). • Be the encourager who revives exhausted saints (2 Corinthians 7:6). By practicing these traits, believers today can wear, in God’s sight, the same honorable title Paul gave to Stachys—“my beloved.” |
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