Romans 16:21
Timothy, my fellow worker, sends you greetings, as do Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater, my fellow countrymen.
Timothy, my fellow worker
The name "Timothy" is derived from the Greek "Timotheos," meaning "honoring God" or "honored by God." Timothy was a close companion and protégé of Paul, often accompanying him on his missionary journeys. His role as a "fellow worker" underscores the collaborative nature of early Christian ministry. In a historical context, Timothy's presence signifies the importance of mentorship and discipleship in the spread of the Gospel. His dedication and service exemplify the commitment required to advance the Christian faith.

sends you greetings
The act of sending greetings was a common practice in ancient letters, serving as a means of maintaining fellowship and unity among believers. This phrase highlights the interconnectedness of the early Christian communities, despite geographical distances. It reflects the warmth and personal nature of Paul's relationships with the Roman believers, emphasizing the communal aspect of the Church.

as do Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater
These names represent individuals who were part of Paul's ministry team. "Lucius" may refer to Lucius of Cyrene, mentioned in Acts 13:1, indicating a diverse background among early Christians. "Jason" is likely the same individual who hosted Paul in Thessalonica (Acts 17:5-9), demonstrating hospitality and courage in the face of persecution. "Sosipater" is possibly the same as Sopater of Berea (Acts 20:4), known for his faithfulness. Each name signifies the diverse yet unified body of Christ, where different backgrounds and accounts converge in the mission of the Gospel.

my kinsmen
The term "kinsmen" (Greek: "syngenēs") can mean relatives or fellow countrymen. In this context, it likely refers to Jewish Christians who shared a common heritage with Paul. This phrase underscores the continuity between Judaism and Christianity, highlighting Paul's deep connection to his Jewish roots while embracing the new covenant in Christ. It serves as a reminder of the shared spiritual lineage and the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Timothy
A close companion and fellow worker of Paul, Timothy was a young pastor and leader in the early church. He is known for his deep faith and dedication to the Gospel, as seen in the letters Paul wrote to him (1 Timothy and 2 Timothy).

2. Lucius
Likely a Jewish Christian, possibly the same Lucius of Cyrene mentioned in Acts 13:1, who was a prophet and teacher in the church at Antioch.

3. Jason
Possibly the same Jason who hosted Paul and Silas in Thessalonica and faced persecution for his hospitality (Acts 17:5-9).

4. Sosipater
Referred to as Paul's "kinsman," indicating a fellow Jew. He may be the same as Sopater of Berea mentioned in Acts 20:4, who accompanied Paul on his travels.

5. Paul's Kinsmen
The term "kinsmen" (Greek: syngen?s) suggests a familial or ethnic connection, indicating these men were fellow Jews who shared Paul's heritage and faith.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Fellowship in Ministry
Paul’s mention of his fellow workers highlights the importance of collaboration and support in ministry. We are reminded that the work of the Gospel is not a solitary endeavor but a collective effort.

The Role of Heritage and Identity in Faith
The reference to "kinsmen" underscores the significance of cultural and familial identity in the early church. It encourages us to appreciate our own backgrounds and how they can be used to further the Gospel.

Hospitality and Sacrifice for the Gospel
Jason’s example of hospitality, even in the face of persecution, challenges us to consider how we can support and serve others in our communities, even when it requires personal sacrifice.

Faithfulness Across Generations
Timothy’s relationship with Paul serves as a model for mentoring and discipleship, emphasizing the importance of investing in the next generation of believers.

Unity in Diversity
The diverse backgrounds of these individuals reflect the unity found in Christ, transcending cultural and ethnic differences. This unity is a powerful testimony to the world.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the example of Timothy as a "fellow worker" inspire you to serve in your own community or church?

2. In what ways can you practice hospitality like Jason, even when it might be inconvenient or risky?

3. How can understanding your own heritage and identity help you in sharing the Gospel with others?

4. What steps can you take to mentor or be mentored by someone in your faith community, following the example of Paul and Timothy?

5. How can the unity among diverse believers in Romans 16:21 encourage us to embrace and celebrate diversity within our own church or community?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Acts 16:1-3
Provides background on Timothy's relationship with Paul, highlighting his mixed Jewish and Greek heritage and his role in Paul's ministry.

Acts 13:1
Mentions Lucius of Cyrene as a leader in the church at Antioch, suggesting his prominence in the early Christian community.

Acts 17:5-9
Describes Jason's role in Thessalonica, showing his commitment to supporting Paul and the early church despite facing opposition.

Acts 20:4
Lists Sosipater (Sopater) as one of Paul's companions, indicating his active involvement in missionary work.
Christian SalutationsT.F. Lockyer Romans 16:1-16, 21-23
Salutations and BenedictionsR.M. Edgar Romans 16:1-27
The Object and the Strength of a Christian ChurchC.H. Irwin Romans 16:20-27
Distinctions Even in the ChurchJ. Lyth, D.D.Romans 16:21-24
Erastus the ChamberlainT. Robinson, D.D., R. Wardlaw, D. D., A. Maclaren, D. D.Romans 16:21-24
Fellowship with ChristC. H. Spurgeon.Romans 16:21-24
Gaius the HostJ. W. Burn.Romans 16:21-24
Grace for AllJ. Lyth, D. D.Romans 16:21-24
HospitalityBp. Martensen.Romans 16:21-24
LuciusT. Robinson, D.D.Romans 16:21-24
Mutual SalutationsJ. Lyth, D. D.Romans 16:21-24
Natural and Spiritual RelationshipsJ. Lyth, D. D.Romans 16:21-24
TertiusA. Maclaren, D. D.Romans 16:21-24
Tertius the ScribeJ. Brown, D.D.Romans 16:21-24
The Grace of Our Lord Jesus ChristJ. Lyth, D.D.Romans 16:21-24
The Greetings of the Saints Derive ValueJ. Lyth, D.D.Romans 16:21-24
The Pastor's Parting BlessingC. H. Spurgeon.Romans 16:21-24
Timotheus the WorkfellowJ. Lyth, D.D.Romans 16:21-24
People
Amplias, Andronicus, Apelles, Aquila, Aristobulus, Asyncritus, Christians, Epaenetus, Erastus, Gaius, Hermas, Hermes, Herodion, Jason, Julia, Junia, Lucius, Mary, Narcissus, Nereus, Olympas, Patrobas, Paul, Persis, Phebe, Philologus, Phlegon, Prisca, Priscilla, Quartus, Romans, Rufus, Sosipater, Stachys, Tertius, Timotheus, Timothy, Tryphena, Tryphosa, Urbane
Places
Asia, Cenchreae, Rome
Topics
Countrymen, Fellow, Fellow-worker, Fellow-workman, Greetings, Greets, Jason, Kindred, Kinsmen, Love, Lucius, Relations, Relatives, Salute, Saluteth, Sends, Sosipater, Sosip'ater, Timotheus, Timothy, Worker, Workfellow, Work-fellow, Working
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Romans 16:21

     5205   alliance
     7924   fellowship, in service

Romans 16:3-27

     5328   greeting

Library
July 29. "My Helpers in Christ Jesus" (Rom. xvi. 3).
"My helpers in Christ Jesus" (Rom. xvi. 3). Christ's Church is overrun with captains. She is in great need of a few more privates. A few rivers run into the sea, but a larger number run into other rivers. We cannot all be pioneers, but we can all be helpers, and no man is fitted to go in the front until he has learned well how to go second. A spirit of self-importance is fatal to all work for Christ. The biggest enemy of true spiritual power is spiritual self-consciousness. Joshua must die before
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

Tryphena and Tryphosa
'Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord.'--ROMANS xvi. 12. The number of salutations to members of the Roman Church is remarkable when we take into account that Paul had never visited it. The capital drew all sorts of people to it, and probably there had been personal intercourse between most of the persons here mentioned and the Apostle in some part of his wandering life. He not only displays his intimate knowledge of the persons saluted, but his beautiful delicacy and ingenuity in
Alexander Maclaren—Romans, Corinthians (To II Corinthians, Chap. V)

Persis
'Salute the beloved Persis, who laboured much in the Lord.'--ROMANS xvi. 12. There are a great number of otherwise unknown Christians who pass for a moment before our view in this chapter. Their characterisations are like the slight outlines in the background of some great artist's canvas: a touch of the brush is all that is spared for each, and yet, if we like to look sympathetically, they live before us. Now, this good woman, about whom we never hear again, and for whom these few words are all
Alexander Maclaren—Romans, Corinthians (To II Corinthians, Chap. V)

A Crushed Snake
'The God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly.'--ROMANS xvi. 20. There are three other Scriptural sayings which may have been floating in the Apostle's mind when he penned this triumphant assurance. 'Thou shalt bruise his head'; the great first Evangel--we are to be endowed with Christ's power; 'The lion and the adder thou shalt trample under foot'--all the strength that was given to ancient saints is ours; 'Behold! I give you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all
Alexander Maclaren—Romans, Corinthians (To II Corinthians, Chap. V)

Tertius
'I, Tertius, who write the epistle, salute you in the Lord.'--ROMANS xvi. 22 (R.V.). One sometimes sees in old religious pictures, in some obscure corner, a tiny kneeling figure, the portrait of the artist. So Tertius here gets leave to hold the pen for a moment on his own account, and from Corinth sends his greeting to his unknown brethren in Rome. Apparently he was a stranger to them, and needed to introduce himself. He is never heard of before or since. For one brief moment he is visible, like
Alexander Maclaren—Romans, Corinthians (To II Corinthians, Chap. V)

Quartus a Brother
'Quartus a brother.'--ROMANS xvi. 23. I am afraid very few of us read often, or with much interest, those long lists of names at the end of Paul's letters. And yet there are plenty of lessons in them, if anybody will look at them lovingly and carefully. There does not seem much in these three words; but I am very much mistaken if they will not prove to be full of beauty and pathos, and to open out into a wonderful revelation of what Christianity is and does, as soon as we try to freshen them up
Alexander Maclaren—Romans, Corinthians (To II Corinthians, Chap. V)

Phoebe
'I commend unto you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the Church that is at Cenchrea: 2. That ye receive her in the Lord, worthily of the Saints, and that ye assist her in whatsover matter she may have need of you: for she herself hath been a succourer of many, and of mine own self.'--ROMANS xvi. 1, 2 (R.V.). This is an outline picture of an else wholly unknown person. She, like most of the other names mentioned in the salutations in this chapter, has had a singular fate. Every name, shadowy
Alexander Maclaren—Romans, Corinthians (To II Corinthians, Chap. V)

Two Households
'... Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household. 11. ... Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord.'--ROMANS xvi. 10, 11. There does not seem much to be got out of these two sets of salutations to two households in Rome; but if we look at them with eyes in our heads, and some sympathy in our hearts, I think we shall get lessons worth the treasuring. In the first place, here are two sets of people, members of two different households, and that means mainly, if not
Alexander Maclaren—Romans, Corinthians (To II Corinthians, Chap. V)

Priscilla and Aquila
'Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus; 4. (Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but so all the churches of the Gentiles:) 5. Likewise greet the church that is in their house.'--ROMANS xvi. 3-5. It has struck me that this wedded couple present, even in the scanty notices that we have of them, some interesting points which may be worth while gathering together. Now, to begin with, we are told that Aquila was a Jew. We are not told whether
Alexander Maclaren—Romans, Corinthians (To II Corinthians, Chap. V)

The Pastor's Parting Blessing
THE CHRISTIAN IS A MAN of generous actions, but his wishes go far beyond his deeds. Where he cannot be beneficent he is benevolent. If he cannot actually accomplish good for all, yet he anxiously desires it. If it be not in his power to confer grace upon any, yet he prays that God would give his grace to all the brotherhood. His heart entertains thousands, though his house might be overfull with ten; his liberal desires feed nations, even though his purse be so scant that he cannot afford more than
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

Of this Weakness of His, He Saith in Another Place...
13. Of this weakness of his, he saith in another place, "We made ourselves small among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children." [2510] For in that passage the context indicates this: "For neither at any time," saith he, "used we flattering words, as ye know, nor an occasion of covetousness; God is witness: nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others when we might have been burdensome to you as the Apostles of Christ: but we made ourselves small among you, even as a nurse cherisheth
St. Augustine—Of the Work of Monks.

Purity and Peace in the Present Lord
PHILIPPIANS iv. 1-9 Euodia and Syntyche--Conditions to unanimity--Great uses of small occasions--Connexion to the paragraphs--The fortress and the sentinel--A golden chain of truths--Joy in the Lord--Yieldingness--Prayer in everything--Activities of a heart at rest Ver. 1. +So, my brethren beloved and longed for+, missed indeed, at this long distance from you, +my joy and crown+ of victory (stephanos), +thus+, as having such certainties and such aims, with such a Saviour, and looking for such
Handley C. G. Moule—Philippian Studies

Whether it is Lawful for a Bishop to have Property of his Own?
Objection 1: It would seem that it is not lawful for a bishop to have property of his own. For our Lord said (Mat. 19:21): "If thou wilt be perfect, go sell all [Vulg.: 'what] thou hast, and give to the poor . . . and come, follow Me"; whence it would seem to follow that voluntary poverty is requisite for perfection. Now bishops are in the state of perfection. Therefore it would seem unlawful for them to possess anything as their own. Objection 2: Further, bishops take the place of the apostles in
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Always Abounding in the Work of the Lord
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, , unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.'--1 Cor. 15:58 We all know the fifteenth chapter of 1st Corinthians, in its Divine revelation of the meaning of Christ's resurrection, with all the blessings of which it is the source. It gives us a living Saviour, who revealed Himself to His disciples on earth, and to Paul from heaven. It secures to us the complete deliverance from
Andrew Murray—Working For God!

The Death which Gives Life
'And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear His cross. 22. And they bring Him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull. 23. And they gave Him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but He received it not. 24. And when they had crucified Him, they parted His garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take. 25. And it was the third hour, and they crucified Him. 26. And the superscription
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

After the Wreck
'And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita. 2. And the barbarous people showed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold. 3. And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand. 4. And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

Ignorance of Evil.
"And the Lord God said, Behold, the man is become as one of Us, to know good and evil."--Gen. iii. 22. It is plain that the temptation under which man fell in paradise was this, an ambitious curiosity after knowledge which was not allowed him: next came the desire of the eyes and the flesh, but the forbidden tree was called the tree of knowledge; the Tempter promised knowledge; and after the fall Almighty God pronounced, as in the text, that man had gained it. "Behold, the man is become as
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII

The Epistle of Saint Jude.
V. 1, 2. Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, but a brother of James, to those that are called to be holy in God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, mercy unto you and peace and love be multiplied. This Epistle is ascribed to the holy Apostle, St. Jude, brother of the two Apostles, James the Less and Simon, by the sister of the mother of Christ, who is called Mary (wife) of James or Cleopas, as we read in Mark vi. But this Epistle cannot be looked upon as being that of one who was truly an Apostle,
Martin Luther—The Epistles of St. Peter and St. Jude Preached and Explained

Epistle Xl. To Mauricius Augustus.
To Mauricius Augustus. Gregory to Mauricius, &c. The Piety of my Lords in their most serene commands, while set on refuting me on certain matters, in sparing me has by no means spared me. For by the use therein of the term simplicity they politely call me silly. It is true indeed that in Holy Scripture, when simplicity is spoken of in a good sense, it is often carefully associated with prudence and uprightness. Hence it is written of the blessed Job, The man was simple and upright (Job i. 1).
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Christ Crucified
"And they compel one passing by, Simon of Cyrene, coming from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to go with them, that he might bear His cross. And they bring Him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull. And they offered Him wine mingled with myrrh: but He received it not. And they crucify Him, and part His garments among them, casting lots upon them, what each should take. And it was the third hour, and they crucified Him. And the superscription of
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

How the Simple and the Crafty are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 12.) Differently to be admonished are the simple and the insincere. The simple are to be praised for studying never to say what is false, but to be admonished to know how sometimes to be silent about what is true. For, as falsehood has always harmed him that speaks it, so sometimes the hearing of truth has done harm to some. Wherefore the Lord before His disciples, tempering His speech with silence, says, I have many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now (Joh. xvi. 12).
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

Thirty-First Day. Holiness and Heaven.
Seeing that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of men ought ye to be in all holy living and godliness?'--2 Pet. iii. 11. 'Follow after the sanctification without which no man shall see the Lord.'--Heb. xii. 14. 'He that is holy, let him be made holy still.... The grace of the Lord Jesus be with the holy ones. Amen.'--Rev. xxii. 11, 21. O my brother, we are on our way to see God. We have been invited to meet the Holy One face to face. The infinite mystery of holiness, the
Andrew Murray—Holy in Christ

The Work of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Scriptures in the New Testament. "But these are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through His name."--John xx. 31. Having considered the apostolate, we are now to discuss God's gift to the Church, viz. the New Testament Scripture. The apostolate placed a new power in the Church. Surely all power is in heaven; but it has pleased God to let this power descend in the Church by means of organs and instruments, chief
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

Extracts No. viii.
"In regard to the story reported among the Jews, respecting the body of Jesus, I admit there is a greater probability of there being such a report, especially if the body could not be found, and the apostles affirmed that he was risen from the dead, than there is that the resurrection, should be actually true: hence, perhaps, I was not so much on my guard in the expression as I ought to have been. What I particularly had in my mind was, that I might find it difficult to prove even the existence of
Hosea Ballou—A Series of Letters In Defence of Divine Revelation

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