I wonder how many of us would stay behind for the closing credits and pay attention to the list of names scrolling up on the screen at the end of every movie. Usually, I would make my way out of the theatre as soon as possible unless there is some behind-the-scenes snippets or post-credit scenes (like those typically found in a Marvel movie – where it serves as teaser of what is to come in the Marvel Cinematic Universe).
Admittedly, a part of me feels bad for all those who have collaborated with others in the production of this movie. After all, credit should be given to this big team of people who employed their skills and talents so that I can watch this show on the big screen. Although the majority of them work behind the scenes, they deserve proper recognition for their contribution. But alas, I suspect that apart from those who are from similar industry and the individual’s family and friends, most may only give a cursory glance to the credit rolls.
Hopefully, when we see the list of names that Paul mentioned in Romans 16:1-16, we will not be in a hurry to skim through it. Rather it should remind us that the work of Christ’s church was accomplished through the contributions of all its Spirit-filled members. As much as the apostles were key figures in laying the foundation of the early church, no Christian is supposed to be a spectator.
From Romans 16, we learn that God has also raised up several like-minded believers to serve alongside each other as they share their lives and resources. Although there were different gender roles during Paul’s time, both women and men had the opportunity to participate actively in taking the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Out of those whom Paul greeted, there were 3 married couples (Prisca & Aquila, Andronicus & Junia, Philologus & Julia) 2 siblings teams (Nereus & his sister, Tryphena & Tryphosa), 1 mother-son team (Rufus & his mother), several other women & men including those such Aristobolus and Narcissus who opened up their homes for Christians to gather for worship.
In Paul’s life, the apostle himself relied on the gracious hospitality and faithful service of others for the expansion of his gospel ministry. For example, Paul had no qualms about entrusting Phoebe to convey his letter to the fledging church in Rome and commending her for being a patron to him and many others (Romans 16:1). Likewise, Paul made it a point to acknowledge his debt of love to Rufus’ mother who treated him like her own son (v.13). There was also this couple, Prisca and Aquilla whom Paul described as having “risked their necks for (his) life” (v.3).
Bible commentators have noted that it is remarkable that Paul used a variety of descriptions such as sister, patron, fellow workers, beloved, kinsmen, fellow prisoner, chosen, etc to describe who those people are in relationship to him and each other.
This reveals the extent of Paul’s affection towards fellow believers as well as the affection he has received from them. Given the common bond of love and faith that Paul shares with them “in the Lord” and “in Christ”, it is not surprising that Paul would address them in such a manner. Indeed, as we learn to cultivate God-centred relationships with others today, we are also likely to find our lives being enriched by others as well as becoming a blessing to them.
Another thing that stands out from Paul’s greetings is the socio-economic and cultural diversity of those acquainted with him. Although we have little information about these individuals, scholars tell us that apart from some prominent people in society, many were slaves or freedmen. In addition, some of the names listed are Jewish names, others are Latin and still others are Greek.
Such unity in diversity, sincere affection and sacrificial love for one another regardless of their status would have been counter-cultural and a glowing testimony of Christ’s transforming love. Even today, it is a glorious picture of what God intends his church to be.
Bearing in mind that writing materials including scrolls and sheets of papyrus were expensive during Paul’s time, it is noteworthy that the apostle would fill up the valuable and limited space he has with so many names and commending these individuals for what they have done for the church.
According to John Calvin, “the testimonies which (Paul) brings here in favour of some individuals, were partly intended for this end, that by honouring those who were faithful and worthy, faithfulness itself might be honoured, and that they who could and would do more good than others”. Put simply, by honouring those who had served the church well, Paul’s intention was also to encourage others to do the same.
Whether we are a ministry leader at True Way or a regular worshipper, there is certainly much we can learn from the example of Paul and those whom he commended. If anything, we could begin by heeding Paul’s concluding instructions to “greet one another with a holy kiss” (v.16).
During Paul’s time, people often greeted one another with a kiss when they met together. Here, Paul adapts a prevailing cultural practice and gives its new Christian significance, calling it a “holy kiss”. Indeed, everything we do must be holy and acceptable to the Lord.
In our context today, perhaps we can start by not scurrying away after the worship service. Let us be intentional about extending a hearty handshake or a heartfelt smile to convey Christian warmth as we make our way out of the sanctuary. Let us consider how we can thank and encourage fellow believers, especially as we have been blessed by their labour of love and faith on Sundays or on any other occasions. After all, unlike those names on the credit rolls at the end of a movie, these individuals should hardly be strangers to us in the first place.
