Romans Part 44

Paul continues his list of greetings in verses 8–15, and the personal nature of these greetings gives us a glimpse into how deeply Paul cared about the people he served. These were not simply names he had heard about. Paul had personally known many of them, worked alongside them, stayed in their homes, and watched them grow in faith and service. His ministry involved spending months or even years in particular communities, developing genuine relationships with God's people. The list demonstrates how many faithful individuals were quietly contributing to the work of the Church.

In verse 10, Paul describes Apelles as “approved in Christ.” The word dokimos was used for something that had been tested and found genuine, much like metal that had been examined and proven to be of full value. Apelles had endured testing and demonstrated the genuineness of his faith. In verse 12, Paul similarly commends Persis, whom he calls “beloved” and says he had worked hard in the Lord. The Church is large and the work of God requires many people faithfully doing their part. Not everyone has the same responsibility or visibility, but everyone has something meaningful to contribute.

Paul also mentions Rufus, chosen in the Lord. This may be particularly interesting because Mark 15:21 identifies Simon of Cyrene as the man who carried Jesus' cross and mentions his son Rufus. Cyrene was a city in North Africa, in what is now Libya. If this is the same Rufus, it would mean that someone from the family of the man who carried Christ's cross had become a well-known member of the Church. Paul also speaks warmly of Rufus' mother, saying that she had been a mother to him as well.

Verse 14 mentions “the brothers who are with them,” which may indicate another group of believers meeting separately within Rome. Taken together, the greetings give the impression of a large and active Christian community, with many faithful people serving in different ways and groups gathering throughout the city. Paul knew many of them personally, and he wanted them to know that they were remembered and valued.

Paul then shifts from personal greetings to an urgent warning in verses 17–18: Division can hinder the work of God. He tells the Roman Christians to watch out for those who cause divisions and offenses that are contrary to the doctrine they had been taught. The Greek word related to “offenses” is "skandalon," from which we get the word “scandal.” It carries the idea of a trap or snare. Paul is warning them about people whose teachings and behavior could become a spiritual trap for others.

The instruction to “note” or “mark” such people does not necessarily mean establishing a formal label or immediately disfellowshipping someone. The word "skopio" carries the idea of recognizing, taking heed, watching carefully, or being alert. Christians are not supposed to be naïve about false teaching. When someone consistently promotes ideas contrary to the truth that God's people have been taught, we should recognize the danger and exercise caution.

Verse 18 explains the motivation of these false teachers. They are not genuinely serving Christ. They are serving their own interests and seeking to build their own following. Their smooth words and flattering speech can deceive people who are not paying careful attention. This is why Christians must remain grounded in the truth of God's Word rather than being carried away by persuasive personalities.

Paul then gives encouragement in verse 20: 

“The God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly.” 

The ultimate responsibility for defeating these deceivers and the spiritual forces behind them belongs to God. God's people must remain faithful, but we do not have to carry the burden of personally defeating every opponent. God will establish peace and bring every form of rebellion against Him to an end.

Verse 23 introduces another familiar name, Erastus, who held an important public position in Corinth. His presence is another reminder that the gospel had reached people from many diverse backgrounds and positions in society. God's Church was not restricted to one social class or occupation.

Paul closes by returning to the “mystery” that he has been explaining throughout Romans. The mystery is God's previously unrevealed plan to bring salvation beyond Israel to the Gentiles and eventually to all mankind. What had once been hidden was now being made known through the prophetic Scriptures and the preaching of the gospel. The purpose of revealing this mystery was not merely to give people information. It was “for obedience to the faith.” God's truth is intended to produce a changed life, one that responds to Him in faithful obedience.

And that brings the entire letter to its fitting conclusion: 

“To God, alone wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen.”

Epistles of Paul is a course taught at ABC by Mr. Steve Myers. Recordings from the 2023–2024 class year are available on the ABC website. 

UYA Team | uya@ucg.org  

United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.