What does Romans 16:10 mean?

Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus’ household. Romans 16:10

Explanation

The verse Romans 16:10, “Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus’ household,” is part of a larger section where the Apostle Paul greets and acknowledges various individuals and groups in the Roman Christian community. The term “salute” is a translation of the Greek “aspasasthe,” which means to greet or welcome warmly.

“Apelles approved in Christ” indicates a commendation for a man named Apelles, suggesting he is a tested and trustworthy Christian, someone who has demonstrated his faith and steadfastness. The phrase “approved in Christ” hints at a deeper spiritual vetting or proving, perhaps through trials or services that affirm his authenticity and dedication as a follower of Jesus.

The mention of “them which are of Aristobulus’ household” refers to other members of the Christian community who are part of a household that is somehow associated with a person named Aristobulus. In those times, a household included not only family members but also servants and slaves. Aristobulus may have been a notable individual, and his household could have been well-known within the Roman community.

Historical Context

At the time of this letter, Paul had not yet visited the church in Rome. He dictated it to Tertius (Romans 16:22) and sent it with Phoebe, a deacon of the church at Cenchrea (Romans 16:1). The greeting lists various individuals and households in Rome, indicating a diverse and socially complex Christian community.

Rome was the center of the Roman Empire, with a vast array of cultural and social influences. House churches were typical, reflecting Christianity’s early structure before formal church buildings emerged. The mention of Aristobulus’ household suggests that conversions may have occurred within the larger household structures common to Roman society. It is debated whether Aristobulus himself was Christian since only his household is mentioned.

Theological Insights

Different theological interpretations arise from this verse. One viewpoint focuses on the concept of being “approved in Christ,” which suggests a theological perspective on how individuals are deemed righteous or commendable before God — not through their works but through faith in Jesus Christ.

The reference to a household implies a communal aspect of faith, showing that salvation and Christian living were understood within community and family settings. This aligns with a theological understanding of the church not just as an assembly of individual believers but as a familial network of those who are in Christ.

Practical Applications

This verse teaches the importance of recognizing and affirming each other’s faith and contributions within the community. It encourages believers to warmly welcome one another, and acknowledge the spiritual journey and service of fellow Christians.

It also exemplifies how individual households and broader social networks can be integral to the fabric of Christian community, highlighting the role families and shared living arrangements play in supporting and nurturing faith.

Cross-References

• Romans 16:7: “Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.”
• 1 Peter 1:7: “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.”
• 2 Timothy 2:15: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

Language Study

The key phrase “approved in Christ” is derived from the Greek “dokimos en Christo.” “Dokimos” means tested, approved after examination, and carries the connotation of authenticity and reliability. It is often used in the context of metals that have been purified and found to be of high quality. The use of “en Christo,” meaning “in Christ,” signifies union with Jesus and standing within the Christian community.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of household salutations and commendations can be compared with traditional Greco-Roman practices of patronage and household codes where the head of the household had significant influence over the inhabitants. In terms of religious parallels, the idea of someone being “approved” could be likened to various religious and cultural initiation rites where one’s status would change following the successful completion of certain tests or rites of passage.

Scientific Perspectives

While there are no direct scientific concepts tied to this particular verse, the ideas of community acceptance and validation have been studied within the fields of psychology and sociology. These fields acknowledge the importance of social bonds, community approval, and the inclusion of members of a household or group for the well-being of individuals and the cohesion of communities.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators highlight the personal and often affectionate nature of the greetings in Romans 16. Some suggest that Apelles could have been a person of some distinction in the church due to the specific commendation by Paul. As for Aristobulus, commentators speculate about who he may have been—some align him with Herod’s household due to the name’s rarity and suggest that these members of his household became Christians despite Aristobulus himself possibly not being a follower. The greetings provide insights into the diversity and interconnectedness of the early Christian community in Rome.