| Chapters 1‐11 focus on the great doctrine of justification and that chapters 12‐15 focus on how Christians ought to live in light of having been justified.
In chapter 16 there is a Commendation, 22 Greetings, A Warning, A Few Greetings from Others and A Benediction…that could seem like just a regular kind of wrap up. But for Paul to mention all those folks by name, and he hadn't been to Rome yet seems remarkably personal. His theology was deeply personal and for him to take time to speak to individuals means he was deeply invested in their lives, although he hadn't been to Rome yet.
So it seems to me in Chapter 16 that Paul is saying, "If you’re hiding out there I urge you as strongly as I can, “Come on in and help us. Get to know us…let us get to know you. The Body of Christ is a wonderful thing.”
A personal encouragment imo. |