Romans 16:10-11
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The phrase "approved in Christ" isn't just about Apelles being a good guy; it signifies that his faith has been tested and proven genuine, finding its true quality and value within Christ, not just by his own efforts. Likewise, greeting "those who belong to the family of Aristobulus" highlights that even people connected to a potentially non-believing household could be recognized and included as part of God's people.
Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ. Greet those who belong to the family of Aristobulus. Greet my kinsman Herodion. Greet those in the Lord who belong to the family of Narcissus.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is nearing the end of his letter to the Romans, and this section shifts from theological argument to personal greetings. He's shouting out specific individuals and groups within the Roman church, showing his deep care for them and connecting them to his own ministry and network of believers. This personal touch highlights the vibrant community life of early Christianity and the deep bonds forged through shared faith.
Paul reserves a special commendation for Apelles: he is 'approved in Christ.' What does it mean to be 'approved' in the most important relationship of all?
The phrase 'approved in Christ' isn't just a casual compliment; it speaks to a faith that has been tested and proven genuine. Think of it like a craftsman whose work is so excellent it passes every quality check, or a metal that's been refined and emerges pure.
Paul doesn't just greet Aristobulus himself, but his 'household.' This subtle distinction reveals something powerful about how faith impacts the entire sphere of a person's life, even if they aren't the primary believer.
When Paul mentions 'those who belong to the family of Aristobulus,' he's likely referring to the members of Aristobulus' household – perhaps slaves or freedmen – who had come to faith in Christ. This highlights a few key points:
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Understand the original words
dokimos · Greek Adjective
'Approved' (dokimos) describes something or someone that has been tested by fire or trials and found to be genuine, reliable, and acceptable, particularly regarding character or faith.
aspazomai · Greek Verb
In the NT, this term expresses the warm, formal welcome given to fellow believers, emphasizing Christian fellowship, unity, and the bonds of love within the body of Christ.
syngenes · Greek Noun
One belonging to the same nation, race, or extended family. In a spiritual context, it highlights the close relational and covenantal ties among God's people.
en Kyrio · Greek Prepositional Phrase
A designation indicating a person’s spiritual location and allegiance; it denotes those who are redeemed, under the authority of Christ, and living in vital union with Him.
The mention of 'Aristobulus' household' hints at the complex social structures of Rome, where even slaves or freedmen could form Christian communities, potentially holding onto their former master's name or associated with his legacy.
c. 40 BC
Aristobulus (grandson of Herod the Great) born
Aristobulus, a grandson of Herod the Great, was born. He later lived in Rome and had connections to the imperial family.
c. AD 40-50
Aristobulus' household possibly transferred to Emperor
It's theorized that Aristobulus' household, including slaves, may have been transferred to Emperor Claudius' service after Aristobulus' death, a common practice at the time.
c. AD 50-55— this verse
Paul likely writes Romans from Corinth or Ephesus
The Apostle Paul is believed to have penned the letter to the Romans during his travels, possibly while staying in Corinth or Ephesus.
c. AD 57
Paul arrested in Jerusalem
Paul was arrested in Jerusalem and subsequently imprisoned for several years, eventually appealing to Caesar and being sent to Rome.
This passage also speaks about discerning what is best and being pure, much like Apelles being 'approved in Christ,' highlighting the importance of genuine character and spiritual discernment.
1 Timothy 3:10This verse discusses the character required for those serving in the church, echoing the idea of being 'approved' or tested and found worthy, as Apelles is described.
Colossians 4:7-8Similar to Paul's greetings in Romans 16, this passage includes commendations of faithful individuals like Tychicus, showing the value Paul placed on recognizing and encouraging those who served faithfully.
1 Corinthians 16:19This verse also mentions greetings from a household, specifically mentioning Priscilla and Aquila and 'the church in their house,' which parallels the mention of 'those who belong to the family of Aristobulus.'
jfbRomans 16:10: "Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household."
- Salute Apelles approved—"the approved"in Christ—or, as we should say, "that tried Christian"; a noble commendation.Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household—It would seem, from what is said of Narcissus in Ro 16:11, that this Aristobulus himself had not been a Christian; but that the Christians of his household simply were meant; very possibly some of his slaves.
vincentRomans 16:10: "Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household."
ApellesIt occurs in Horace as the name of a Jew, under the form Apella ("Satire," i. 5, 100).Them which are of Aristobulus' householdPossibly household slaves. They might have borne the name of Aristobulus even if they had passed into the service of another master, since household slaves thus transferred, continued to bear the name of their former proprietor. Lightfoot thinks that this Aristobulu…
The phrase "approved in Christ" isn't just about Apelles being a good guy; it signifies that his faith has been tested and proven genuine, finding its true quality and value within Christ, not just by his own efforts. Likewise, greeting "those who belong to the family of Aristobulus" highlights that even people connected to a potentially non-believing household could be recognized and included as part of God's people.
Paul is nearing the end of his letter to the Romans, and this section shifts from theological argument to personal greetings. He's shouting out specific individuals and groups within the Roman church, showing his deep care for them and connecting them to his own ministry and network of believers. This personal touch highlights the vibrant community life of early Christianity and the deep bonds forged through shared faith.
Paul is nearing the end of his letter to the Romans, and this section shifts from theological argument to personal greetings. He's shouting out specific individuals and groups within the Roman church, showing his deep care for them and connecting them to his own ministry and network of believers. This personal touch highlights the vibrant community life of early Christianity and the deep bonds forged through shared faith.
"Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ. Greet those who belong to the family of Aristobulus. Greet my kinsman Herodion. Greet those in the Lord who belong to the family of Narcissus." — The phrase "approved in Christ" isn't just about Apelles being a good guy; it signifies that his faith has been tested and proven genuine, finding its true quality and value within Christ, not just…
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Last reviewed October 2026
