Romans 16 (yes, the whole chapter)

WHATS’S IN A NAME?

Paul mentions 35 people in this chapter, not counting Jesus.  Most of these names appear nowhere else in Scripture – only here in Romans 16.  I bet these people had no idea their names would be recorded for eternity.  But here they are in Romans, one of Paul’s many letters which the Holy Spirit inspired him to write.

Now this “name dropping” does not compare to those other incidents you may have encountered.  You know what I mean. Some people have to mention they know someone or have met someone to bring attention to themselves.  No, Paul is mentioning these names to give them honor in their service to Jesus.

TEACHING MOMENT

Our children need to know their name is important to God.  He knows them by name.  He even knows their middle name, lol.  He knows everything about them.  And, although their name won’t be listed in a book of the Bible, if they are a believer, it is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.  That is where it really matters.

Our children need to know that, although they may think their service to the King isn’t important, He is noticing.  He is pleased with their sacrifice.  He is blessed by their obedience.  It does not matter if anyone else on earth knows what they did, God does.  That is all that matters.

How about you?  Are you down in the dumps because no one has “patted you on the back” lately.  Why are you serving?  Why are you doing what you are doing?  It is NOT for men’s applause.  It is to please your Father in heaven.  Let Him be pleased.  That is all that matters.