Romans 16:6-7 Greet Mary, who bestowed much labor on us.… Probably husband and wife, or brother and sister. Grace adorns, sanctifies, and sweetens every relation of life. Natural relationships not absorbed by union with Christ. The distinction of these persons was that they were — I. KINSMEN OF PAUL, either in the wider or more restricted sense. Paul's nephew at Jerusalem warmly attached to his uncle. Grace recognises the ties of kindred. These ties drawn still closer by a common faith. II. PAUL'S FELLOW PRISONERS. When and where unknown. Valuable undesigned coincidence with 2 Corinthians 6:5; 2 Corinthians 11:23. Paul had been often in prison, but the history speaks only of one imprisonment (Acts 16:23) before the date of this letter. Others mentioned afterwards as his fellow prisoners (Colossians 4:10; Philippians 2:2, 3). Chains for Christ greater honour than chains of office. III. OF NOTE AMONG THE APOSTLES. They were not, of course, apostles in the strictest sense, viz., of the company appointed by Christ Himself (Matthew 10:2), but in the wider sense, viz., messengers (2 Corinthians 8:23). Amongst these Andronicus and Junia were highly distinguished. There are different ranks among believers, as there were among David's worthies who were honoured according to bravery and zeal. Not only sincerity, but eminence in grace to be desired. Grace distinguishes more than gifts, but the best gifts are to be coveted. Paul's relations apparently lived in Jerusalem (Acts 23:16). Andronicus and Junia therefore in circumstances to be well known to apostles. Possibly the gospel was brought by them to Rome. IV. IN CHRIST BEFORE PAUL. The distinguishing characteristic of a true Christian is to be in Christ. The believer is in three positions — in Adam by nature, in Christ by faith, in the Church by baptism. To be in Christ is to be one with Him as a member of His body. Note Paul's humility. He readily accords pre-eminence. These kinsmen may have been among the converts at Pentecost. Priority of union with Christ to be regarded as an honour. Age in Christ makes venerable. Paul delights to refer to his conversion. The time of our union with Christ never to be forgotten. (T. Robinson, D.D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us. |
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