Romans 16:8–9: Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved.
Amplias is a common slave name and occurs in the tombs of the early Christians in the catacombs, always in a place of honor. He evidently was one of Paul’s converts and dear to his heart. Urbane means “city bred.” In other words, his name actually means “city–slicker.” This was also a common slave name, and it may mean that he was brought up in the city rather than in the country. He is identified as a real worker among believers. Stachys has been found listed in the royal household. It is a masculine name. He was beloved not only to Paul but to the church. 1
Application
- Are you giving significant time to build and strengthen the friendships that are most important to you?
- Who in your life is deserving of the name beloved? Are you known as an outstanding worker? What would it take for you to become a “beloved worker” for the Lord?
Prayer
Lord, please make me into a “beloved worker” for Your kingdom on earth.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles Romans, Nashville: Thomas Nelson.