Romans 16:10Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

“Greet Apelles, approved in Christ.” Nothing equals this praise, to be blameless and not even give occasion for reproach in matters according to God.

When the Apostle says, “approved in Christ,” he means every virtue.

Why does the Apostle not use such expressions in his greetings as, “my master so-and-so,” or, “my lord”? Because that praise is weightier than this.

In the latter, only honor is expressed. In apostolic praise, virtue is indicated.

The Apostle did not accidentally honor them with the same praise, greeting many who were lower together with those who were higher and noble.

By greeting them, and greeting them together with others in the same epistle, the Apostle gave equal honor to all.

By praising each in particular, he set before us the special virtue of each.

“Greet Apelles, approved in Christ.” That is, blameless and spotless in everything. Some say that this was said to distinguish him from some other Apelles who did not deserve approval. “Greet the faithful of the household of Aristobulus.” These were probably not like the preceding persons, and therefore he did not mention them by name.

Paul greets Apelles not as a friend or coworker, but as one who has passed through trials and been found faithful to Christ. “Greet the faithful of the household of Aristobulus.” This Aristobulus, as may be understood, was a gatherer of brethren in Christ. Paul values this so highly that he considered all whom Aristobulus gathers worthy of greeting.

“Apelles, skilled in Christ,” in Russian, “Apelles, approved in Christ.” The Apostle, however, does not show why he calls Apelles this. Perhaps he was a skilled preacher and knower of the writings concerning Christ. More likely, he was tested in sufferings for Christ, like the confessors later.

“Apelles, approved,” δόκιμον. This may mean skilled, one who knows well how to preach the faith, confirm others in it, defend it, and generally conduct all affairs concerning Christ the Lord.

Or it may mean tested, so that one may rely on him in everything. By his deeds he proved that he believes sincerely and is sincerely devoted to the work of faith and to all the faithful.

“Behold a testimony of high virtue, for to have nothing counterfeit is the summit of goodness,” says blessed Theodoret.

“Nothing equals this praise, to be blameless and not even give occasion for reproach in matters according to God.

When the Apostle calls Apelles approved in Christ, he expresses by this all virtues.