Romans 16:1-16.     

In our text today, we have a closing section for the book of Romans. The section is fairly typical for one of Paul’s letters, as he often sends several personal greetings and notes of encouragement when signing off.

However, what we might miss as we skim through the collection of unfamiliar names is the real significance of the example that Paul is offering us. If you take the time to read this section closely, you’ll see that nearly every person listed is significant in some way. Paul did not simply list names but also made a brief effort to indicate in what way that person was significant or special in his life.

While we are called to a general approach of love and compassion in keeping with Christ’s example for us, there is also an important element of our mission that includes going deep in our relationships with one another in the church. Our care for others—both the entire world and our inner circles—is meant to be personal and intimate. This support builds trust and strength within the body of believers, enabling each to go farther together than they could alone.

Author: Grant Miller