### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Tértios**, represented by `{{G5060}}`, is of Latin origin and means **third**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a Christian who served a specific role in the creation of a New Testament letter. Its singular appearance offers a unique glimpse into the practical realities of apostolic ministry.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G5060}}` is in [[Romans 16:22]], where **Tertius** interjects with his own greeting: "I **Tertius**, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord." In this passage, he identifies himself as the scribe, or amanuensis, who physically penned the letter to the Romans. His personal greeting is notable, as it is inserted directly into the text, indicating a personal connection to the message and its recipients, with his action being done "in the **Lord**" `{{G2962}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the verse provide context for the role of **Tertius**:
* `{{G1125}}` **gráphō** (to write): This verb defines the action performed by Tertius. It is frequently used in scripture to refer to the act of writing, including the phrase "it is written" when quoting sacred texts ([[Matthew 4:4]], [[Mark 7:6]]).
* `{{G1992}}` **epistolḗ** (epistle, letter): This word identifies the document Tertius **wrote**. It is the standard term for the letters that form a significant portion of the New Testament [[2 Thessalonians 2:15]].
* `{{G782}}` **aspázomai** (to salute): This describes Tertius's personal action of greeting the Roman believers. It is a common word for expressing fellowship and welcome among the early Christians ([[Colossians 4:12]], [[1 Peter 5:14]]).
### Theological Significance
The brief mention of `{{G5060}}` carries significance by illustrating key aspects of the early church.
* **Human Collaboration:** The presence of **Tertius** highlights the human element in the production of scripture. His role as the one who **wrote** `{{G1125}}` the **epistle** `{{G1992}}` shows the practical collaboration involved in apostolic work [[Romans 16:22]].
* **Personal Fellowship:** By inserting his own greeting using the word **salute** `{{G782}}`, **Tertius** demonstrates that his work was more than a technical task; it was an act of personal connection within the community of faith, performed "in the **Lord**" `{{G2962}}`.
* **Individual in the Community:** The use of the emphatic pronoun **I** `{{G1473}}` gives a distinct voice and identity to the scribe, acknowledging the value of his individual contribution to the larger work of the ministry [[Romans 16:22]].
### Summary
In summary, while the name **Tértios** `{{G5060}}` is rare, its single appearance in scripture is revealing. It provides a valuable window into the process of how an epistle was written and transmitted. The mention of **Tertius** serves as a permanent record of the collaborative and personal nature of early Christian ministry, where even the scribe's role was an expression of fellowship and a valued contribution to the work of the **Lord**.
TRV