The Greetings of Romans 16

The Greetings of Romans 16 constitute a detailed list of individuals and house churches located in Rome, appearing at the conclusion of the letter to the Romans (Romans 16:1–23). The passage begins with a formal commendation of Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchreae who is described as a benefactor to many, including the author (Romans 16:1–2). The text then transitions into a series of personal greetings directed toward specific members of the Roman community, many of whom are identified by their labor, their relationship to the author, or their status within the faith.

The group is organized through specific descriptions of service and kinship within the movement of Jesus. The text mentions Priscilla and Aquila, who are described as fellow workers who risked their lives for the author (Romans 16:3–4). Epaenetus is identified as the first convert to Christ from the province of Asia (Romans 16:5). Mary is singled out for having worked very hard for the community (Romans 16:6). Andronicus and Junia are noted as being of note among the apostles and having been in prison alongside the author (Romans 16:7). The list continues with Ampliatus, who is called beloved in the Lord, and Urbanus, who is labeled a fellow worker (Romans 16:8–9). Stachys is also greeted as a beloved friend (Romans 16:9).

Further names include Apelles, who is described as tested and approved, and Herodion, who is identified as a fellow countryman (Romans 16:10–11). The text greets those belonging to the households of Aristobulus and Narcissus (Romans 16:10–11). Women such as Tryphaena, Tryphosa, and Persis are commended for their diligent work in the Lord (Romans 16:12). The list concludes with a variety of names including Rufus, who is called chosen in the Lord, as well as Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, and Hermas (Romans 16:13–14). Finally, Philologus, Julia, Nereus, and Olympas are greeted along with the believers who meet with them (Romans 16:15).

The passage concludes with greetings sent from the author’s current location, involving Timothy, Lucius of Cyrene, Jason, and Sopater (Romans 16:21). Tertius, the scribe who wrote the letter, includes his own greeting, followed by Gaius of Corinth, who is hosting the author and the whole church (Romans 16:22–23). Erastus, the city’s director of public works, and Quartus also send their regards (Romans 16:23). This extensive list serves to document the diverse social and ethnic composition of the early church in Rome, highlighting the roles of both men and women in the spread of the gospel.