Who Was Tertius in the Bible?

A Scribe in the Early Church

Tertius is a figure mentioned briefly in the New Testament, specifically in Romans 16:22. His name appears in a single verse, yet it holds significance within the context of the early Christian community. The name “Tertius” is derived from the Greek word Τέρτιος (Tertios), meaning “third,” which may suggest that he was the third son in his family or simply a common name given in that period.

Tertius is identified as the scribe who penned the Epistle to the Romans on behalf of the Apostle Paul. In Romans 16:22, Tertius takes a moment to greet the recipients of the letter: “I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the Lord.” This small yet personal note offers a glimpse into the collaborative nature of the early Christian church, where different individuals played vital roles in the spread of the gospel, even if their contributions were behind the scenes.

The Role of a Scribe in the Ancient World

In the ancient world, scribes held an important role in society, especially within religious and governmental settings. The act of writing was a specialized skill, and those who mastered it often served as recorders, secretaries, or transcribers for more prominent figures. In the context of the New Testament, scribes like Tertius were essential in the dissemination of Christian teachings. They meticulously copied letters and manuscripts, ensuring that the words of the apostles were accurately transmitted to the growing Christian communities.

Tertius’s role as Paul’s scribe emphasizes the collaborative effort required to build the early church. Although Paul was the primary author of the Epistle to the Romans, Tertius’s involvement as a scribe was crucial for the letter’s creation and distribution. His contribution, though seemingly minor, played a significant part in the spread of Christian doctrine.

Lessons for the Modern Christian

The Importance of Humble Service

Tertius serves as a powerful example of humble service within the body of Christ. His work as a scribe might not have placed him in the limelight, yet his role was indispensable. This teaches modern Christians that service to God does not always require being at the forefront. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, the body of Christ is made up of many members, each with its own function. Tertius’s example reminds us that every task, no matter how seemingly small, is valuable in God’s kingdom.

In today’s church, we might find ourselves in roles that seem insignificant, whether it’s administrative work, setting up chairs, or providing hospitality. However, Tertius’s example shows that God sees and values every act of service. In Colossians 3:23-24, believers are encouraged, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.”

Faithfulness in Our Calling

Tertius’s mention in Romans 16:22 also underscores the importance of being faithful in whatever role God assigns us. Tertius was faithful in his calling as a scribe, ensuring that Paul’s message was accurately conveyed to the Roman believers. His dedication to this task, though brief in mention, is a testament to the value of faithfulness in the Christian life.

Modern believers are called to a similar standard of faithfulness. Whether in our professional lives, our families, or our churches, we are to carry out our responsibilities with diligence and commitment, knowing that we serve the Lord Christ (Colossians 3:23). Tertius’s example encourages us to approach our tasks, no matter how mundane, with a heart of service and faithfulness.

Connection to a Loving God

God’s Care for All His Servants

The brief mention of Tertius in the Bible also speaks to the inclusive care of God for all His servants. While Tertius might not have been a prominent figure like Paul or Peter, his work was vital to the mission of the early church. This reflects the truth that God values every member of His body, regardless of their role. In Matthew 10:42, Jesus states, “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” This demonstrates God’s recognition and reward for even the smallest acts of service.

God’s love is not limited to those who hold prominent positions; it extends to everyone who faithfully serves Him. Tertius’s inclusion in Paul’s letter is a reminder that God sees and cherishes every contribution made to His kingdom, no matter how small or unnoticed it might seem.

The Unity of the Church

The mention of Tertius also highlights the unity and cooperation within the early Christian church. The early believers worked together, each contributing their gifts and talents to further the gospel. This unity is a reflection of God’s design for the church as a unified body, where each member supports and uplifts the others. Ephesians 4:16 speaks of this unity: “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”

Connection to Jesus Christ

The Ultimate Servant

Tertius’s humble service as a scribe is a reflection of the servanthood modeled by Jesus Christ. Jesus, though He was God, took on the form of a servant and humbled Himself to serve humanity (Philippians 2:5-7). Tertius’s willingness to serve behind the scenes is a mirror of Christ’s attitude, who came “not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28).

Participating in the Spread of the Gospel

By assisting Paul in writing the letter to the Romans, Tertius participated in the spread of the gospel, which is central to the mission of Jesus Christ. The letter to the Romans has been instrumental in shaping Christian doctrine and teaching about salvation through faith in Jesus. In this way, Tertius’s work contributed to the ongoing mission of Christ, who commanded His disciples to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).

Tertius’s role reminds us that we too are called to participate in the spread of the gospel, whether through direct evangelism, supporting others in their ministries, or contributing in practical ways to the work of the church. Each believer, like Tertius, has a role to play in God’s redemptive plan, and every act of service contributes to the fulfillment of Christ’s mission on earth.

Conclusion

Tertius, though briefly mentioned in the New Testament, provides a rich example of humble and faithful service to God. His role as a scribe for the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans underscores the importance of every individual’s contribution to the kingdom of God. Tertius’s example teaches modern Christians the value of serving in whatever capacity God calls us to, knowing that our efforts, no matter how small, are significant in the eyes of God. Moreover, his story connects us to the broader themes of unity, service, and the ongoing mission of Jesus Christ, encouraging us to faithfully participate in the work of the gospel.