The Recognition of Character (Romans 16:1-16)

Abstract

Paul had made firm plans to visit the church in Rome, but he had been delayed in coming to them because of God’s provision of ministry opportunities. Although he had never been there, he was still able to greet 27 individuals by name in the Roman church. And he not only knew their names, but he identified character qualities exhibited in most of them. Paul realized that ministry is about people. He wasn’t in love with traveling or preaching or teaching or recognition or any other motivation to serve the Lord. He loved God and he loved people. And that personable-ness comes through clearly throughout his concluding remarks to the Roman Christians.