Chapter 16

            Chapter 16, unfortunately, is neglected by many pastors, and to their own loss.  It is by far the most extensive, intimate and particular of all the words of loving greeting in Paul’s epistles.  In all actuality, Chapter 16 is one chapter that now one can afford to miss, for it is the outpouring of the heart of Paul toward the saints whom he so loved—which really includes all the Church.
            The epistle concludes with various salutations. The names which occur in this chapter are chiefly Greek; and the persons designated had been, probably, inhabitants of Greece, but had removed to Rome for purposes of commerce, etc. Possibly some of them had been converted under the ministry of the apostle himself during his preaching in Corinth and other parts of Greece. It is remarkable that the name of Peter does not occur in this catalogue; which is conclusive evidence, contrary to the Papists, that Peter was not then known by Paul to be in Rome.
            Thirty five persons are named by Paul in this chapter.  There were eight men and one woman with Paul when he wrote his epistle, and there are twenty-four persons mentioned at Rome—seventeen men and seven women.  Besides these, there are two house-holds in Rome that are mentioned, that of Aristobulus and Narcissus.
            Paul concludes this epistle with various salutations. The  names which occur in this chapter are chiefly Greek; and the persons designated had been, probably, inhabitants of Greece, but had removed to Rome for purposes of commerce, etc.  Possibly some of them had been converted under the ministry of the Paul himself during his preaching in Corinth and other parts of Greece. It is remarkable that the name of Peter does not occur in this catalogue; which is conclusive evidence, contrary to the Papists, that Peter was not then known by Paul to be in Rome.
            The present chapter is a beautiful illustration of the lively interest which the apostle took, not in churches alone, but also in their individual members; and as naturally growing out of this, of the extent and accuracy of his knowledge concerning them. For, in writing to a church which he had never visited, he not only salutes many by name, but accurately describes the Christian service rendered by them. Herein he is an example to all Christ's ministers.
vv. 1-2
Paul commends to the Christians at Rome: Phoebe, a deaconess of the Church at Cenchrea,
vv. 3-5
Paul sends greetings to Aquila and Priscilla, of whom he gives a  high character; and greets also the Church at their house.
vv. 6-16
Paul mentions several others by name, both men and women, who were members of the Church of Christ at Rome.
vv. 17-18
Paul warns them to beware of those who cause dissensions and divisions, of whom he gives an awful character.
vv. 19-20
Paul extols the obedience of the Roman Christians, and promises them a complete victory over Satan.
vv. 21-23
Several persons send their salutations. To whose good wishes Paul adds the apostolic blessing; commends them to God; gives own abstract of the doctrines of  the Gospel.
vv. 24-27
Paul concludes with ascribing glory to the only wise  God, through Christ Jesus.