Romans 16:13 (KJV)

What does Romans 16:13 mean?

Romans 16:13 is a personal greeting from Paul, asking the recipients of his letter to greet Rufus, who is described as "chosen in the Lord," and also to greet Rufus’s mother, whom Paul affectionately calls a mother to himself as well. This verse highlights the close, family-like bonds among early Christians and Paul’s deep gratitude for those who supported him.

Paul is writing to the believers in Rome, closing his letter with a series of greetings to specific people he knows or appreciates. By calling Rufus "chosen in the Lord," Paul points out Rufus’s special standing or faithfulness within the Christian community. Mentioning Rufus’s mother as his own suggests she cared for Paul in a way that felt like family, showing the warmth and personal connections that marked the early church.

The Greek behind Romans 16:13

• "chosen" (ἐκλεκτός, eklektos): This word means "chosen" or "select," often understood as someone specially set apart or recognized for faith or service. Here, it suggests Rufus is notable among the believers, not just a random member.
• "in the Lord" (ἐν κυρίῳ, en kyriō): This phrase means "in relationship to the Lord" or "as a follower of Christ." Paul’s use here shows that Rufus’s special status is spiritual, not social or political.
• "mother" (μήτηρ, mētēr): Paul refers to Rufus’s mother as "his mother and mine," using the same Greek word for both. This signals a deep, personal care—she likely showed Paul motherly kindness, which he honors publicly.

Why Romans 16:13 matters

• Romans 16:13 clears up that Paul’s relationships with fellow Christians often went beyond formal or distant ties; he experienced real, familial affection and support.
• The verse emphasizes that being "chosen in the Lord" is about spiritual standing, not earthly status, reminding readers that Paul valued faithfulness and service.
• This greeting connects to the wider passage by showing how Paul personally knew and appreciated many in the Roman church, making his letter not just theological, but deeply relational.