Romans 16:10 – Approved in Christ

^“Greet Apelles, the approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus” (Romans 16:10 NASB).

Paul says to salute or greet the co-workers of his. I think of salute as a military salute. I wasn’t in the military but I was in the Boy Scouts who also used a salute to greet one another. Here the word is more personal. The word “greet” is getting closer. The word might actually mean, “Give a hug to, or embrace.” In fact, in the 16^th verse Paul says to “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” (Romans 16:16 NASB)

Apelles, still another anonymous name has a special label. He is the approved in Christ. Here the word has to do with being accepted through trials. He has stood against the fiery trials and he was found approved. James uses the word tried. “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” (James 1:12)

This person in Christ took his stand for the gospel of Christ. Both God and Paul now approve him. First of all, it’s important to know God approves you. He does so apart from your performance or behavior. He does so because you are in Christ. You are approved. God is not mad at you. He loves you unconditionally. Moreover, He approves of you unqualifiedly.

Second, it’s good when your fellow workers see the fruit in your life. Paul has obviously observed the hard work of Apelles and his steadfastness through many trials. There was a great deal of persecution going on in the Roman Empire during this time. Apelles was approved of men as well as God.

Aristobulus apparently was head of a household who believed in the Lord. It’s a great statement of faith when the household is in Christ. Though the word household is in italics and is not in the Greek text, the meaning is still to greet those of Aristobulus. It isn’t just Aristobulus but of those of him. It could mean his close family, or his slaves, or his relatives.

^“They said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:31 NASB) When the head of the house is saved, the whole house has a greater likelihood of being saved as well. If your whole household is not yet in Christ, you have a stronger prayer that your household will be saved. Even if it is in the last moments of one’s life God can intervene. In addition, I think God makes an extra effort to honor your faith and trust in Him.