Romans 16:7

KJV

Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.

KJV (with Strong's)

Salute {G782} Andronicus {G408} and {G2532} Junia {G2458}, my {G3450} kinsmen {G4773}, and {G2532} my {G3450} fellowprisoners {G4869}, who {G3748} are {G1526} of note {G1978} among {G1722} the apostles {G652}, who {G3739} also {G2532} were {G1096} in {G1722} Christ {G5547} before {G4253} me {G1700}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Greetings to Andronicus and Junia, relatives of mine who were in prison with me. They are well known among the emissaries; also they came to trust in the Messiah before I did.

Berean Standard Bible

Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow countrymen and fellow prisoners. They are outstanding among the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was.

American Standard Version

Salute Andronicus and Junias, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also have been in Christ before me.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 16:7 is a significant verse within Paul's extensive closing greetings, where he commends Andronicus and Junia, two remarkable individuals. Paul identifies them as his "kinsmen" and "fellowprisoners," indicating a deep personal connection and shared suffering for the Gospel. Most notably, he describes them as "of note among the apostles" and states they were "in Christ before me," highlighting their prominence in the early Christian movement and their pioneering faith prior to Paul's own conversion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 16 serves as a crucial closing to Paul's magnum opus, the Epistle to the Romans. After systematically expounding profound theological doctrines concerning justification by faith, the role of Israel, and practical Christian living, Paul dedicates an entire chapter to personal greetings and commendations. This extensive list, unusual in its length compared to other Pauline epistles, underscores the highly relational nature of early Christian communities and Paul's vast network of co-laborers. It transitions from weighty theological discourse to the practical outworking of faith in community, demonstrating that theology is not abstract but lived out in concrete relationships and shared ministry. The inclusion of specific individuals like Andronicus and Junia highlights the personal investment Paul had in the churches and the mutual support vital for the spread of the [Gospel message](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Power of the Gospel").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Rome, as the capital of the Roman Empire, was a melting pot of cultures, religions, and social strata. Its Christian community, likely composed of both Jewish and Gentile believers, was diverse and influential. Paul, writing from Corinth, had not yet visited Rome, making these greetings particularly poignant as he seeks to establish rapport and affirm the existing leadership and faithful members. The terms "kinsmen" (likely implying Jewish heritage) and "fellowprisoners" (suggesting shared persecution) reflect the realities of early Christian life, where believers often faced opposition and imprisonment for their faith. The mention of individuals by name in such a prominent letter was a common practice in ancient correspondence, serving to strengthen communal bonds and acknowledge contributions within the nascent church.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, nestled within the broader greetings of [Romans 16](/romans/16 "Romans 16 - Paul's Greetings and Doxology"), contributes to several key themes. It emphasizes the **interconnectedness of the early church** and the importance of **personal relationships in ministry**. Paul's commendation highlights the **diverse contributions of individuals** to the spread of the Gospel, regardless of gender or social standing. The phrase "fellowprisoners" underscores the theme of **suffering for Christ**, a recurring motif in Paul's writings (e.g., [Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")). Most significantly, the description of Andronicus and Junia as "of note among the apostles" raises crucial questions about the **nature of apostleship** beyond the Twelve and the **role of women in early Christian leadership**, challenging traditional interpretations and inviting deeper theological reflection on passages like [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Unity in Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **epísēmos (Greek, _epísēmos'_):** This word, translated as "of note," means remarkable or eminent. It signifies that Andronicus and Junia were highly regarded, prominent, or distinguished. The context suggests their notability was specifically within the sphere of the apostles, implying they were either well-known *to* the apostles or were themselves *among* the apostles and held in high esteem.
* **apóstolos (Greek, _apóstolos'_):** Meaning "a delegate," "an ambassador of the Gospel," or "a commissioner of Christ." While often referring to the original twelve disciples, the New Testament uses "apostle" more broadly to describe those commissioned by Christ for a specific mission, possessing authority and often miraculous powers (e.g., Paul himself, Barnabas, Silas). The crucial interpretive question here is whether Andronicus and Junia were simply well-regarded *by* the apostles or were recognized *as* apostles themselves. The most natural reading of the Greek phrase "en tois apostolois" (among the apostles) suggests the latter, indicating they were counted among the distinguished group of apostles.
* **gínomai (Greek, _gínomai'_):** Translated as "were" in the phrase "were in Christ before me." This verb means "to cause to be," "to become," or "to come into being." Here, it signifies their conversion and identification with Christ occurred prior to Paul's own. This highlights their pioneering faith and early adoption of Christianity, positioning them as foundational figures in the early church.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners":** Paul begins by extending a warm greeting ("salute" from G782 _aspázomai_, to embrace or welcome) to two specific individuals. The term "kinsmen" (G4773 _syngenēs_) signifies a shared ethnic background, likely Jewish, and possibly even a familial relationship, emphasizing a deep personal bond. Calling them "fellowprisoners" (G4869 _synaichmálōtos_) reveals they had endured imprisonment or severe hardship alongside Paul for the sake of the Gospel, underscoring their commitment and shared suffering.
* **"who are of note among the apostles":** This is the most debated and significant clause. The phrase "of note" (G1978 _epísēmos_) indicates their prominence or distinction. The preposition "among" (G1722 _en_) with "the apostles" (G652 _apóstolos_) most naturally implies that Andronicus and Junia were themselves counted among the distinguished group of apostles, rather than merely being well-known to them. This interpretation, especially for Junia, has profound implications for understanding women's roles in early Christian leadership.
* **"who also were in Christ before me":** This final clause establishes their seniority in faith. "In Christ" (G1722 _en_ G5547 _Christós_) is a foundational Pauline concept denoting union with Christ through faith, signifying their conversion and new identity. The phrase "before me" (G4253 _pró_ G1700 _emoû_) means they became believers prior to Paul's dramatic conversion on the Damascus Road, marking them as early, foundational members of the Christian community, perhaps even among the first Jewish converts.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concise verse. **Commendation** is evident in his explicit greeting and the laudatory descriptions of Andronicus and Junia. By identifying them as "kinsmen" and "fellowprisoners," Paul uses **Personal Connection** to establish their credibility and his deep bond with them, inviting the Roman church to share in his esteem. The phrase "of note among the apostles" uses **Affirmation of Authority/Status**, elevating their standing within the broader Christian movement. Furthermore, the inclusion of Junia, a woman, in such a prominent role alongside a man, and described as an apostle, implicitly serves as a powerful statement of **Inclusion and Equality** within the early church's ministry, challenging later patriarchal interpretations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 16:7 is a powerful testament to the diverse and inclusive nature of early Christian ministry. It highlights Paul's recognition of individuals who were not part of the original Twelve but were clearly commissioned and highly regarded for their apostolic work. The most significant theological implication revolves around Junia. If, as the most natural reading of the Greek suggests, she was indeed an apostle, this verse provides compelling evidence for women holding significant leadership and apostolic roles in the nascent church. This challenges later hierarchical structures and underscores that God's gifting and calling are not limited by gender, but by faithfulness and commitment to Christ. The verse also emphasizes the importance of shared suffering for the Gospel and the deep bonds formed through such experiences.

* [Acts 14:14](/acts/14-14 "Acts 14:14 - Barnabas and Paul as Apostles")
* [1 Corinthians 15:8-10](/1_corinthians/15-8-10 "1 Corinthians 15:8-10 - Paul's Apostolic Calling")
* [Philippians 4:3](/philippians/4-3 "Philippians 4:3 - Paul's Female Co-workers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 16:7 invites us to reflect on the nature of Christian community, leadership, and perseverance. Paul's deliberate act of naming and commending individuals reminds us to value and affirm those who labor faithfully in God's kingdom, especially those who have suffered for their convictions. It challenges us to look beyond conventional titles and recognize the diverse ways God calls and equips people for ministry, often in unexpected places and among those we might overlook. The example of Andronicus and Junia, who were "in Christ before" Paul and "of note among the apostles," encourages us to honor pioneering faith and to appreciate the foundational work of those who came before us. This verse also prompts us to critically examine our own assumptions about leadership and gender roles in the church, ensuring that our practices align with the inclusive and empowering spirit of the Gospel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Who are the "Andronicus and Junia" in your life or church community—those who have pioneered in faith or suffered for the Gospel, whose contributions might be overlooked?**
* **How does Paul's commendation of these individuals challenge your understanding of leadership and recognition within the church?**
* **In what ways can we better affirm and empower all gifted individuals in the body of Christ, regardless of traditional expectations?**

### FAQ

**Was Junia truly a woman, and was she an apostle?**

Answer: Yes, the overwhelming scholarly consensus is that "Junia" is a feminine name. While a masculine form "Junias" was proposed in the past, ancient Greek inscriptions and linguistic analysis strongly support "Junia" as a woman's name. Regarding her apostleship, the Greek phrase "of note among the apostles" (ἐπίσημοι ἐν τοῖς ἀποστόλοις, _episēmoi en tois apostolois_) is most naturally translated as "outstanding among the apostles," implying that Andronicus and Junia were themselves considered apostles. While "apostle" can refer to the Twelve, it also describes a broader group of commissioned messengers (e.g., [1 Corinthians 15:7](/1_corinthians/15-7 "1 Corinthians 15:7 - Many Witnesses to the Resurrection")). Therefore, Romans 16:7 provides strong evidence that Junia, a woman, held a recognized apostolic role in the early church.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 16:7, by highlighting the prominence and suffering of Andronicus and Junia, points to the Christ-centered nature of all true ministry and fellowship. Their status as "in Christ before me" underscores that all believers, regardless of their specific calling or chronology of conversion, are united in their common identity in Christ, the Head of the Church (e.g., [Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ as the Head of the Church")). Their shared imprisonment and suffering with Paul reflect the reality that following Christ often involves taking up one's cross (e.g., [Matthew 16:24](/matthew/16-24 "Matthew 16:24 - Taking Up Your Cross")), participating in His sufferings (e.g., [Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")), and enduring persecution for the sake of the Gospel. Ultimately, their "notability among the apostles" is not for their own glory, but for the glory of Christ, who commissions and empowers His servants (e.g., [Ephesians 4:11-12](/ephesians/4-11-12 "Ephesians 4:11-12 - Christ's Gifts to the Church")) to build up His body, the church, for the advancement of His kingdom. Their faithful service is a testament to the power of Christ working through His people, regardless of gender or background, to spread the message of salvation to the ends of the earth.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 16:11

Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the [household] of Narcissus, which are in the Lord.

Romans 16:21

¶ Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you.

Colossians 4:10

Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)

Philemon 1:23

There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Ephesians 2:10

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Galatians 1:22

And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: