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I. HIS PLACE IN HISTORY. The son of Simon the Cyrenian, whom Mark mentions (Romans 15:21), with his brother Alexander, as well known to the Church. Christ's Cross, laid on Simon, brought blessing to his wife and children.

II. HIS DISTINCTION.

1. Chosen, i.e. —

(1)  Elected, as proved by his works (1 Thessalonians 1:4-6).

(2)  Choice. Excellent, as seen in his life and labours (2 John 13). It is good to be a chosen Christian; better still to be a choice one.

2. In the Lord — i.e., in union with Christ (Ephesians 1:4).

(1)  Union with Christ the evidence of election in Christ.

(2)  True excellence only attainable in union with Christ.

III. HIS RELATIONSHIPS.

1. Natural. "His mother." He was the godly son of a godly mother. It is a double blessing when both parent and child are in the Lord.

2. Spiritual. "And mine." He owed his brotherhood with St. Paul probably to his mother's attention to the apostle.

(T. Robinson, D.D.)

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KJV: Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household.

WEB: Greet Apelles, the approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus.