Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother.
Gaius {G1050} mine {G3450} host {G3581}, and {G2532} of the whole {G3650} church {G1577}, saluteth {G782} you {G5209}. Erastus {G2037} the chamberlain {G3623} of the city {G4172} saluteth {G782} you {G5209}, and {G2532} Quartus {G2890} a brother {G80}.
My host Gaius, in whose home the whole congregation meets, greets you. Erastus the city treasurer and brother Quartus greet you.
Gaius, who has hosted me and all the church, sends you greetings. Erastus, the city treasurer, sends you greetings, as does our brother Quartus.
Gaius my host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the treasurer of the city saluteth you, and Quartus the brother.
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Acts 19:22
So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season. -
1 Corinthians 1:14
¶ I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; -
2 Timothy 4:20
Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick. -
3 John 1:1
¶ The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. -
3 John 1:6
Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: -
Acts 20:4
And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus. -
Acts 19:29
And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.
Context
Romans chapter 16 is unique in Paul's epistles, serving as a comprehensive list of personal greetings and commendations. While the bulk of the letter to the Romans is theological and doctrinal, this final chapter underscores the deeply personal nature of early Christian fellowship. Paul, writing from Corinth, extends greetings from various individuals who were with him, highlighting the interconnectedness of the early church network. Verse 23 specifically names three individuals who send their salutations to the Roman believers, reinforcing the idea of a broad, unified Christian community.
Key Figures and Their Significance
Gaius
Described as "mine host, and of the whole church," Gaius was a prominent and hospitable figure in Corinth. He provided lodging for Paul during his stay and likely opened his home for church gatherings, a common practice for early Christian communities before dedicated church buildings existed. His hospitality extended not just to Paul but to "the whole church," suggesting he was a generous patron and pillar of the Corinthian community. Paul also mentions baptizing Gaius in 1 Corinthians 1:14, confirming his close relationship with the apostle. It is also possible he is the same Gaius who was the recipient of 3 John, commended for his hospitality.
Erastus
Identified as "the chamberlain of the city," Erastus held a significant civic position, likely the city treasurer or commissioner of public works in Corinth. This detail is noteworthy as it indicates that Christianity had attracted believers from various social strata, including those with considerable influence and responsibility. His inclusion demonstrates that faith in Christ was not limited to the marginalized but embraced individuals across the social spectrum. Erastus is also mentioned elsewhere by Paul, such as Acts 19:22 where he is sent with Timothy, and 2 Timothy 4:20, noting his stay in Corinth.
Quartus
Simply referred to as "a brother," Quartus's inclusion highlights the essential spiritual kinship shared among believers. While not holding a specific title or prominent role mentioned here, his status as "a brother" signifies his belonging to the Christian family. This phrase emphasizes the unity and equality found within the body of Christ, where every member, regardless of their earthly standing, is valued and connected.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The term "chamberlain" for Erastus is the Greek word oikonomos (οἰκονόμος), which literally means a "steward" or "manager." In this context, it refers to a public treasurer or an official responsible for managing the city's finances or public works. This highlights Erastus's significant and respected position in Corinthian society.
The word "saluteth" is from the Greek aspazomai (ἀσπάζομαι), meaning "to greet," "embrace," or "welcome." It conveys a sense of warm, personal affection and respect, not just a formal acknowledgment. This reinforces the genuine love and connection shared among these early believers.
Practical Application
Romans 16:23 reminds believers today of the enduring importance of community, hospitality, and mutual encouragement within the church. It encourages us to: