Urbane: A Christian in Rome
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Urbane, also referred to as Urbanus in some translations, is a Christian figure mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible. He is noted in the Apostle Paul's Epistle to the Romans, specifically in Romans 16:9. The Berean Standard Bible renders this verse as follows: "Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my beloved Stachys."

Biblical Context

Urbane is listed among a group of individuals whom Paul greets in the closing chapter of his letter to the Romans. This chapter is significant as it provides a glimpse into the early Christian community in Rome and highlights the diverse network of believers who were instrumental in the spread of the Gospel. Urbane is described as a "fellow worker in Christ," indicating his active role in the ministry and his partnership with Paul in the mission of the early Church.

Role and Significance

The mention of Urbane as a "fellow worker" suggests that he was deeply involved in the work of the early Church, possibly engaging in evangelism, teaching, or other forms of ministry. This designation underscores the collaborative nature of the early Christian mission, where individuals from various backgrounds came together to advance the message of Christ.

The fact that Paul includes Urbane in his personal greetings highlights the Apostle's appreciation for those who labored alongside him. It also reflects the interconnectedness of the early Christian communities, which were bound together by their shared faith and commitment to the Gospel.

Cultural and Historical Insights

The name Urbane, or Urbanus, is of Latin origin, meaning "of the city" or "refined." This name was common in the Roman world, suggesting that Urbane may have been a Roman citizen or someone who had integrated into Roman society. His presence in the Roman church indicates the diverse composition of the early Christian community, which included Jews, Gentiles, and individuals from various social and cultural backgrounds.

Theological Implications

Urbane's mention in Romans 16 serves as a reminder of the importance of every member within the body of Christ. Each individual, regardless of their specific role or prominence, contributes to the mission and growth of the Church. Paul's acknowledgment of Urbane and others in this chapter exemplifies the biblical principle of honoring and valuing each member's contribution to the work of the Gospel.

Conclusion

While little is known about Urbane beyond this brief mention, his inclusion in Paul's greetings to the Roman church signifies his valued role in the early Christian community. As a "fellow worker in Christ," Urbane represents the many unsung heroes of the faith who have labored diligently to spread the message of Jesus throughout history.
Nave's Topical Index
Romans 16:9
Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.
Nave's Topical Index

Greek
3773. Ourbanos -- Urbanus, a Christian
... Definition: Urbanus, a Christian in Rome, fellow-worker ... polished, etc.) Definition
Urbanus, a Christian NASB Word ... Urbanus (of the city, "urbane"), a Christian ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3773.htm - 6k
Library

Fragment xvii. On the Fortunes of Hyrcanus and Antigonus, and on ...
... Italy and all the West against Antony, who refused to return to Rome through fear ...
other cities; and to the Jews he was severe, but to other nations most urbane. ...
/.../africanus/the writings of julius africanus/fragment xvii on the fortunes.htm

Pagan Shrines and Temples.
... provinces of the Roman Empire at the beginning of the Christian era ... of my "Ancient
Rome.". ... and 1891, p.61."Lanciani: Ricerche sulle XIV regioni urbane; in the ...
/.../lanciani/pagan and christian rome/chapter ii pagan shrines and.htm

The Confessions and Letters of St
... Foul and Dishonourable, Desires to Be Thought Elegant and Urbane. ... Chapter
VIII.--The Same When at Rome, Being Led by ... Who Was Not Yet a Christian, and Refers ...
//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/the confessions and letters of st/

Resources
Urbane: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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