Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Romans 16:4

"who for my life laid down their own necks; unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles:" — Romans 16:4 (ASV)

First to be greeted are Priscilla and her husband, Aquila. Paul’s friendship with them went back several years to his mission at Corinth, when they gave him hospitality, encouragement, and cooperation in the Lord’s work (Acts 18:2). Their usefulness is confirmed by his taking them with him to Ephesus on leaving Corinth (Acts 18:18). When he left for Jerusalem, they remained there to lay the groundwork for his long ministry there (Acts 18:19) and were used of God in the life of Apollos (Acts 18:24–28). It was during the mission at Ephesus (Acts 19) that these “fellow workers” proved their mettle and personal devotion to Paul. They “risked their lives for me” (v.4). Probably the reference is to the dangerous riot that broke out, endangering the apostle’s life (Acts 19:28–31; cf. 1 Corinthians 16:9; 2 Corinthians 1:8–10).

Their presence with Paul at Ephesus just prior to the riot is confirmed by 1 Corinthians 16:19; cf. v.8). At that time they had a church in their house, so it is not surprising to find that the same is true of their situation in Rome. Their return to the imperial city fits in with their earlier residence there (Acts 18:2). Paul likely encouraged them to return, so that they could prepare for his arrival by acquainting the church with his work and by helping in his plans for the future (cf. Acts 19:21). Priscilla and Aquila represent a splendid image of Christian married life. Since several women are mentioned in this chapter, it is well to note that there was a married woman whom Paul encouraged to labor in the Gospel along with her husband. Paul’s habit of naming Priscilla first testifies to her great gifts and usefulness in the kingdom of God.

Epenetus is the next to be greeted (v.5). It is understandable that Paul should speak of him as “my dear friend,” since this man was the first convert (lit. “firstfruits” [GK 569], suggesting that many more were to follow) to Christ during his mission in the province of Asia, of which Ephesus was the leading city. He naturally held a special place in Paul’s heart.