Jesus' Love For Little People

Persis. Romans 16:12 “Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord.”

Persis was from Persia. He is the only one on the list that Paul describes his labor as being “much”. Evidently he did more than his share in working for the Lord.

Rufus. Romans 16:12 “Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.”

Rufus was the son of Simon of Cyrinus who carried the cross for Jesus. Paul says, “He was chosen in the Lord.” He had a grandmother and she was friends with Paul’s mother. Paul spent a lot of time in their home.

Asyncritus, Philegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas. Romans 16:14 “Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas and the brethern who are with them.”

This was an entire family. They were part of home church. Each was a leader in the church. They must of had a growing congregation.

Philologus. Romans 16:15 “Greet Philologus, Julia,Nereus and his sisters.”

His name means “ lover of the Word of God.” He was Bible scholar. His wife Julia worked with him. This was a another home church. His pastor, Nereus is also mentioned. The early church was a close nit family.

Olympas. Romans 16:15 :and Olympas and all the saints who are with them.”

This was the pastor Nereus’ sister in the flesh. They were meeting in her home as well.

These wonderful saints of old were dear to Paul and he took great pride in their efforts to spread the Gospel. They supported Paul in his missionary efforts. Now that He is about to die in Rome his thoughts go out to these who have served with Paul. They were his trophies for Jesus. In the church today there is a mighty host of these little people serving without reward.

“Great is their reward in heaven.”