John Calvin Commentary Romans 16:5

"and [salute] the church that is in their house. Salute Epaenetus my beloved, who is the first-fruits of Asia unto Christ." — Romans 16:5 (ASV)

Who is the first-fruit, etc. This is an allusion to the rites of the law. For as people are sanctified to God by faith, those who first offer themselves are aptly called the first-fruit.

Whoever, then, is called first in time to the faith, Paul allows that person the prerogative of honor. Yet, such a person retains this eminence only when the end corresponds with the beginning.

And undoubtedly, it is no common honor when God chooses some as first-fruits. In addition, there is a greater and fuller trial of faith over a longer period, provided that those who were first to begin do not grow weary in their course.