“…full of joy over you…” Romans 16:19b
/Closing his letter with personal greetings, Paul addressed the following:
Phoebe – commended to the Roman Christians for their temporary care; they were to “receive her in the Lord, in a way worthy of the saints”; to care for her because of the profound assistance she had given to so many (vv. 1 – 2).
Priscilla and Aquilla – tentmakers who were refugees from Italy that Paul met in Corinth (they had been persecuted for their Jewish heritage in Italy); they risked their own lives for Paul, and were known and appreciated by all the Gentile churches, especially for welcoming Apollos into their home to explain the scriptures more thoroughly to him (vv. 3 – 4; Acts 18:1-3, 26).
The churches that met in the homes of: Priscilla and Aquilla (v.5a), Aristobulus (v.10b), and Narcissus (v.11b).
Epenetus – a dear friend of Paul’s and one of the first converts to Christ in the province of Asia (Achaia – southern Greece; v.5b).
Those among them who had worked hard for the church (vv. 6 & 12).
Relatives of Paul (vv.7 & 11a).
Dear friends in Christ (vv.8, 9b, & 13).
Fellow missionaries of the gospel (vv. 9a, 14, & 15).
Apelles – a church member who had been tested and approved (possibly a teaching elder; v.10a).
Paul instructed the Roman Christians to greet each other with a holy kiss, offered greetings to them from all the churches in his missional network, and then warned them to beware of those who bring divisive teaching. Paul accused those who teach such as serving their own appetites (doing ministry for personal gain) through their flattery and clever twists of scripture which they use to deceive those less knowledgeable of The Word (vv. 17 – 18).
The Roman church was then applauded by Paul who stated, “Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you.” (v.19a-b) Like a parent recognizing a child’s accomplishments, Paul expressed his overwhelming joy in the Roman Christians’ obedience to the call of Christ and holy living. He even pressed the point further by stating:
“…I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.” (v.19c-d)
Once again, Paul connects one’s belief with one’s behavior. When one is wise about what is good, that wisdom influences one’s choices for living. And when one is innocent about what is evil, one is less likely to be enticed by activity which will entrap one’s heart and mind.
Though the names may seem foreign to our ears, the individuals brought joy and refreshment to Paul. Who overflows your heart with joy? Whose life is blessed in such a way by you?
Be wise and innocent and know that I am full of joy over you!