Romans 16:22 – “I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the Lord.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Romans 16:22 is a unique verse because it is not written by Paul, but by Tertius, the scribe (or amanuensis) who physically wrote the letter to the Romans. Paul dictated the letter, but Tertius was the one who put it into writing.

For a brief moment, Tertius steps out of the background and personally greets the believers in Rome. Though we know little about him, his presence in this verse reminds us that many people played a role in spreading the gospel, even if they weren’t in the spotlight.

By adding “in the Lord,” Tertius emphasizes that his greeting is not just a casual hello—it is a greeting as a fellow believer in Christ. He acknowledges his unity with the Roman church, even though he may never have met them personally.

Historical Context

In the ancient world, it was common for letters to be dictated to a professional scribe. Writing materials were expensive, and skilled scribes could write more legibly and efficiently than most people. Paul, like other educated leaders of his time, often used a scribe when writing letters (see Galatians 6:11, where Paul notes that he wrote with his own hand at the end of the letter).

Tertius, whose name means “third” in Latin (possibly indicating he was a slave or freedman), was likely a believer who served Paul in this role. His brief greeting is a rare moment where a scribe steps into the text of Scripture, reminding us that behind the well-known apostles and teachers, many others faithfully worked to help spread God’s Word.

Theological Implications

This simple verse carries important truths about serving God and His people:

1. Every role in the kingdom of God matters. Tertius was not preaching to large crowds or planting churches, but his role as a scribe was crucial. Because of him, the book of Romans was preserved and shared with the world.
2. Faithful service, even in small ways, has eternal impact. Though his name appears only once in the Bible, Tertius played a part in God’s great plan. This reminds us that no task done for the Lord is insignificant (Colossians 3:23).
3. Unity in Christ extends beyond location and status. Even though Tertius was not in Rome, he still considered himself part of the same spiritual family as the believers there. This reflects the larger body of Christ—believers across the world, united in Jesus.

Literary Analysis

Romans 16 is filled with greetings, but this verse stands out because the voice changes. Instead of Paul, we hear from Tertius himself. This is a rare instance where a biblical writer’s assistant directly acknowledges their role.

• The phrase “I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter” is an example of an amanuensis briefly identifying himself. While scribes usually remained anonymous, Tertius’ inclusion here suggests that Paul valued and acknowledged his work.
• “Greet you in the Lord” – This phrase shows that Tertius saw himself as a spiritual brother to the Roman Christians, even though they were far away. This reflects the deep unity of the early church.

Biblical Cross-References

• Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Tertius’ role reminds us that all work done for God is meaningful.
• 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 – Paul describes the church as a body with many parts, showing that every role is important in God’s kingdom.
• Philippians 1:3-5 – Paul thanks others for their partnership in spreading the gospel, much like how Tertius partnered in this work.
• Galatians 6:11 – “See what large letters I use as I write to you with my own hand!” This shows that Paul often dictated his letters and sometimes wrote a portion himself.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is a reminder that faithful service matters, even if it seems small or unnoticed.

In today’s world, people often think that only pastors, missionaries, or famous Christian leaders are doing important work for God. But Tertius’ role as a scribe shows that every believer’s contribution counts. Whether it’s writing, organizing, encouraging, or serving behind the scenes, every act of faithfulness plays a part in God’s kingdom.

It also reminds us that we are all part of one body. Just as Tertius, a believer outside Rome, greeted the Roman church, Christians today should recognize that they are part of a worldwide family of faith. Our unity in Christ is not based on location or status, but on our shared relationship with Him.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He values every person’s service, no matter how small it may seem.

• He sees and honors the contributions of those who serve in quiet, unnoticed roles (Matthew 6:4).
• He works through ordinary people like Tertius, showing that you don’t have to be famous or highly gifted to make a difference in His kingdom.
• He calls believers into a family, where they are connected to one another, no matter where they are.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Himself valued and honored those who served humbly. He washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:12-17), teaching that the greatest in His kingdom are those who serve others.

Just as Tertius played a behind-the-scenes role in spreading Paul’s message, many of Jesus’ followers quietly worked to spread His gospel. Women who provided for His ministry (Luke 8:1-3), those who welcomed Him into their homes, and others who faithfully followed Him all had a role in the larger mission.

Jesus also taught that no task done for God is too small. In Matthew 10:42, He said, “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.”

Tertius’ example reminds us that serving Jesus doesn’t require being in the spotlight—it requires faithfulness.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does this verse teach us about the different roles people play in God’s kingdom?
2. Do you ever feel like your work for God is unimportant? How does Tertius’ example challenge that mindset?
3. How can you encourage those who serve in behind-the-scenes roles in your church or community?
4. What are some ways you can serve God and others, even if it’s not in a visible or leadership position?
5. How does this verse remind us of the unity we share with believers around the world?

Though it’s just a single verse, Romans 16:22 carries a powerful message: God values every act of service, and He uses even the smallest contributions to advance His kingdom. Whether seen or unseen, every faithful effort matters in the work of the gospel.