Summary
Romans 16:1–16 – Commendations and greetings
What happens: Paul commends Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, and asks the Romans to help her. He greets many coworkers like Prisca and Aquila, Epaenetus, Mary, Andronicus, Junia, and others. He urges them to greet one another with a holy kiss.
What it means: The gospel creates a network of partnership and honor. Men and women serve side by side in the Lord’s work. Warm affection shows the family nature of the church.
Romans 16:17–20 – Watchfulness and promise of peace
What happens: Paul warns against those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine they learned. The Romans should be wise to what is good and innocent to what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under their feet.
What it means: Truth and unity must be guarded. God equips his people to resist evil. Victory belongs to God, and he shares it with his church.
Romans 16:21–23 – Further greetings
What happens: Timothy, Lucius, Jason, Sosipater, Tertius, Gaius, Erastus, and Quartus send greetings. The church hosts and city servants are acknowledged.
What it means: Gospel ministry is teamwork. Hospitality and civic service can honor Christ. Every role matters in God’s mission.
Romans 16:25–27 – Final doxology
What happens: Paul ends with praise to God who is able to strengthen them according to the gospel and the revelation of the mystery now made known to all nations. He prays that God be glorified through Jesus Christ forever.
What it means: God’s plan centers on Christ and reaches the nations. Strength to stand comes from the gospel. Glory belongs to God alone.
Application
- Honor faithful servants and support them in practical ways.
- Guard unity and sound teaching with watchful love.
- Practice hospitality and teamwork in the church.
- End every work with praise to God who strengthens by the gospel.
