The Churches of Christ in Rome
In the last chapter of Romans there is a long list of names. They probably don’t mean much to most us, but they are actually the whole point of this letter. When combined with an understanding of how Claudius kicked the Jews out of Rome, these names help us understand the cultural context of Romans. Some of the Christians were Jews, some were Greeks, some were probably slaves, and some were wealthy homeowners. Paul instructs his audience to, “greet” each other. Finally, Paul’s appeal in Romans 16:17-20 and his doxology in verses 25-27 help us understand—and participate in—the peace God brings by grace. (Scripture: Romans 11:1-5)
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