1. The Importance of Holy Fellowship and Community
In Romans 16:16, Paul says, "Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you." From this verse, we can see that Paul emphasized the holy fellowship and greeting that believers within the church community should show toward one another. He was not merely encouraging the act of kissing itself but rather urging those who have become brothers and sisters in Christ to share genuine love and deep spiritual intimacy whenever they meet. In our current era, when believers gather at church, we often express our warm feelings with a handshake or a hug. In Paul's day, however-especially in the Roman church-kissing was a natural form of greeting within that cultural context, and the word "holy" underscores the importance of approaching one another with a pure heart centered on Christ.
Rev. David Jang reminds us that Paul's exhortation here points to the church as a community that is not just a group of people but a congregation of interdependent members-"one body" organically connected. One hand cannot claim ignorance of the other, and the eyes cannot forget the labors of the feet. Likewise, the church consists of members who help and connect with each other to form a single whole. When Paul tells the Roman church, "Greet one another with a holy kiss," the underlying premise is, "You are already one. You are members of the same body in Christ."
Paul then says, "All the churches of Christ greet you." This shows us that even in the early days of the church, scattered throughout the Mediterranean world, congregations were not completely isolated or oblivious to each other; they were already interconnected in Christ. From Jerusalem, the gospel spread rapidly through the apostles' evangelistic efforts, establishing churches in Antioch, Asia Minor, Macedonia, Achaia, and Rome. These congregations shared news via letters, collected offerings to send to one another, and dispatched apostles and co-laborers, thus remaining united as one body.
Rev. David Jang explains that this "connectedness" and "solidarity" displayed by the early church holds a great lesson for churches today. Modern churches, with advanced internet and communication tools, can share information and resources much more quickly and easily. Yet, we often see churches dividing or building walls against one another. Despite enjoying better means of communication than ever before, many churches have failed to establish the kind of united cooperation and mutual care that the early church had. This indicates our urgent need to recover the "connectedness" and "sense of community" that Paul exemplified in this passage.
The true significance of the command "Greet one another with a holy kiss" is that the church should welcome one another with the attribute of "holiness," not forgetting the love, care, and sense of oneness contained therein. In Paul's day, people of Gentile origin and Jewish origin were worshiping together in the church, with notable differences in terms of law, tradition, culture, and language. Yet, the exhortation to "Greet one another with a holy kiss" called for a type of "hospitality" that transcended differences and barriers. No matter the background or culture, they were to remember that in Christ they were siblings, and thus they should exchange sincere fellowship and greeting.
Rev. David Jang underscores this point, stating that "no one in the church should be marginalized." We must not shun or reject brothers and sisters we meet "in Christ" simply because their social status or background is different, or because they belong to a different type of church-whether within or outside established denominational structures. A holy kiss, a holy greeting, is not merely an artificial form; rather, it should be founded on spiritual intimacy and an attitude of service, encompassing mutual care. Even today, such heartfelt openness in greeting one another remains the true hallmark of the community of believers and a beautiful sign of our calling.
After emphasizing the importance of holy fellowship, Paul, in verses 17-18, addresses the elements that threaten the purity and unity of the church community-namely, discord and stumbling blocks. This is a warning about what most undermines the foundation of "greeting one another" just mentioned. "I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them," Paul says. Within the church, there may be those who sow discord or cause others to stumble, and Paul instructs the believers to distance themselves from such people in order to protect the church.
Commenting on this, Rev. David Jang explains that to maintain the church's holy fellowship continuously, the church must exercise discernment against forces that destroy relationships or lead people into sin, whether inside or outside the community. When Paul corresponded with churches like Corinth and others, he frequently warned them to guard against heretical teachings and divisive individuals. Such issues were an open reality in the early church. Since no church consists solely of perfect angels but is a real community of people with sin natures, conflicts and sources of stumbling can arise at any time. Therefore, we must heed Paul's admonition: "Never let yourself be dragged into their influence."
"Those who cause divisions" spread strife and conflict, gossip and factionalism, sowing discord within the church. Proverbs 6 names those who "sow discord among brothers" as one of the six or seven things the Lord hates. Meanwhile, "those who cause others to stumble" hinder others' faith journeys or tempt them so that they fall away from faith. Paul calls them "those who serve their own appetites," implying that they do not live for Christ but only seek to fulfill their selfish interests and desires, deceiving unsuspecting believers with slick talk and flattery.
For a church community to sustain a healthy and holy fellowship, it must discern and actively avoid such individuals Paul describes. Rev. David Jang clarifies that while love should cover all things, indiscriminately accepting those who craftily commit wrongdoing or spiritual harm is not "true love." In other words, "a stance that appears to embrace everything might actually sicken the church." Preserving holiness sometimes requires the "wisdom to keep a distance," just as Paul instructed. Nonetheless, it is also essential, whenever possible, to attempt correction and guidance before resorting to complete avoidance.
After mentioning the dangers of division and stumbling, Paul praises the Roman church in verse 19 for their well-known obedience. He then concludes with, "I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil." In this context, Paul is urging them not to be swayed by strife or false teachings but to become more proficient in doing good and less experienced in doing evil. Being "wise as to what is good" implies that the church community should excel in righteous acts like love, service, and caring. Being "innocent as to what is evil" means being so uninterested in sin, conflict, or schemes that bring others down that one is virtually ignorant of them.
When Rev. David Jang preaches on this verse, he points out that many modern believers have "exceedingly abundant knowledge of the world's evil and temptations but are actually quite unskilled in practicing goodness, mercy, and devotion." We live in a culture where the internet and media constantly expose us to all sorts of crime, violence, conflict, immorality, and dishonesty-leaving us inundated with evil knowledge and stimuli-yet we may remain untrained in responding wisely and "becoming more proficient in good." Therefore, we should take to heart Paul's admonition to the Roman church: "Be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil." We must not take pride in our supposed expertise in handling evil but rather distance ourselves from it, seeking to embody good more abundantly through disciplined practice.
In verse 20, Paul proclaims, "The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you." Ultimately, this is an assurance that the church will triumph over Satan's cunning attacks-those forces that create division and stumbling-and that God, the "God of peace," will break his power so the church can abide in perfect peace in Him.
Rev. David Jang explains that many believers, facing conflicts, trials, and temptations both inside and outside the church, often wonder, "When will this chaos end?" Yet Paul says that "the God of peace will soon crush Satan," promising that even conflicts that seem insurmountable from a human perspective can be resolved. However, God's notion of "soon" is a sovereign timing (kairos) that may elude our merely human comprehension. Until that moment arrives, the church must continue building each other up in holy fellowship, refusing to be swept away by those who sow discord or entice others, and instead adopting an attitude of being "wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil."
2. Conflict, Temptation, and the Firmness of the Gospel
Starting in Romans 16:21, Paul mentions his co-workers: "Timothy, my fellow worker, and Lucius and Jason and Sosipater, my kinsmen, greet you." Here we see a glimpse of Paul's situation at the time of writing the letter. He was in Corinth, sending a letter to the church in Rome, and he includes the names of those with him, passing on their greetings as well. Timothy was Paul's beloved spiritual son and a trusted companion whom Paul often sent to visit and care for congregations, including the church at Philippi. We can guess at the depth of their relationship from Paul's famed statement: "I have no one else like him who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare" (Phil. 2:20).
Rev. David Jang seizes on this point to emphasize how vital "co-workers" are in resolving or preventing church conflicts and trials. Had Paul worked alone, it would have been nearly impossible for him to handle the various issues that arose, such as disputes at the Jerusalem Council, the problems in the Corinthian church, and the debates over the Law in Galatia. But people like Timothy, Luke, and Silas filled Paul's absence by caring for churches, offering consolation, and doing necessary ministries, allowing Paul's work to broaden across regions. Though the church is indeed one body, each member must fulfill its unique function for the entire body to stand firm.
Paul goes on to mention "Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen," illustrating his inclusive and international approach. Jason is known from Acts 17 for welcoming and protecting Paul in Thessalonica, only to be accused and fined for it. Sosipater, from Berea, evangelized together with Paul in various locations (Acts 20). Paul indicates that these co-laborers share his heart as they send their greetings to the Roman church. This shows that the church was not an isolated ministry of a certain apostle or leader but rather a behind-the-scenes "network" of local congregations and believers who quietly collaborated and supported one another.
In verse 22, we find: "I, Tertius, who wrote this letter, greet you in the Lord." This indicates that Romans was penned by Tertius, who acted as Paul's scribe, based on Paul's dictation. Some scholars suggest Paul might have had poor eyesight; Galatians 6:11 states he wrote in "large letters" with his own hand. In those days, a dedicated scribe or amanuensis was often needed, and Paul regularly relied on such assistance to convey his theological insights promptly and systematically. At a letter's conclusion, Paul might write a few words in his own hand, or the scribe might add a note with their name, signifying the letter's authenticity.
Rev. David Jang points out that while the role of a scribe may seem overshadowed by the towering figure of the Apostle Paul, these scribes played a crucial role in recording the Spirit's inspiration accurately and enabling effective communication. Far from merely copying words, they grasped the content and meaning of the text and faithfully wrote it down, facilitating clear communication. Church history attests that "unnamed co-workers" who labored without seeking recognition were pivotal in its development. According to Rev. David Jang, "Even if their roles are not highly visible, God never forgets their faithfulness." When conflict arises, it is often those who chase the spotlight or prestige who stir up turmoil, whereas humble servants who labor quietly often serve as the church's backbone, providing stability.
Verse 23 says, "Gaius, who is host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus greet you." Gaius is also mentioned in 1 Corinthians 1, one of the few people Paul baptized in Corinth. Moreover, the phrase "Erastus, the city treasurer" suggests that within the city of Corinth, a person holding a political or administrative office had come to faith and was part of the church. Presumably he oversaw city finances. This is a vivid example of how the church was not socially or economically cut off from its surrounding society.
Rev. David Jang uses this scenario to illustrate how the early church already partially fulfilled the gospel's inclusive vision that "all nations, all social levels" should be embraced. From high-ranking city officials to those of low social standing, from Jews to Greeks, and from Roman citizens to foreigners, a wide range of people gathered in one place to worship Christ-a remarkable testament to the early church's unity in diversity. At the same time, such diversity made conflicts more likely-over issues like adherence to the Law, differences in pagan customs, or economic inequality. Hence, Paul frequently urged churches to "receive one another," "serve one another," and "do not quarrel" or "do not cause others to stumble," while also stressing the need for discernment and avoiding dangerous influences.
Verse 24 (some Bible versions omit or merge verse 24 with verse 23) leads into the majestic doxology (verses 25-27) that concludes Romans. Paul declares, "Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, but now revealed and made known..." Affirming that this gospel is the "revealed mystery of God," Paul proclaims that the salvation event foretold by countless Old Testament prophets-"It will come someday"-was finally fully manifested in Jesus Christ.
Rev. David Jang notes that Romans finishes with a lengthy doxology because the main theme of this epistle is the depth and breadth of the gospel. The gospel is not just doctrine within a particular religion but a universal plan of salvation-God's ancient secret, now disclosed. Through this unveiling, God intends that "all nations might believe and obey," reminding us of His ultimate goal: the participation of every people group in the redemption found in Christ.
In verse 26, Paul speaks of "the mystery revealed ... through the prophetic writings," signifying that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the Law and the prophets. All the redemption anticipated by the prophets and yearned for in the Old Testament has been realized in Jesus's crucifixion and resurrection. This gospel was not meant only for Jews but was also open to Gentiles-indeed, to "all nations." Proclaiming this gospel, overcoming conflicts and temptations within the church, and maintaining holy fellowship are all geared toward expanding this glorious mission of the gospel to all the world.
Paul declares that God "is able to strengthen you by this gospel." Indeed, among all the philosophies and ideologies in the world, it is ultimately the gospel of Jesus Christ and its portrayal of God's love, righteousness, and power that keeps the church from crumbling. Paul is confident that if the church holds tightly to the gospel, it will not falter under conflict or temptation. Finally, verse 27 concludes, "to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen," closing out the epistle.
Rev. David Jang highlights how, after warning the church about various dangers, Paul reaffirms the church's glorious calling, and ends by directing all praise to God, in a "theological symphony" of sorts. The church's goal is not merely self-preservation or numerical growth; its ultimate purpose is to bring glory to God. Proclaiming Christ, building up the church, and leading every nation to faithful obedience all serve to reveal this glory. At the conclusion of Romans, it is evident that as the church remains united, without discord, sharing holy fellowship, the immovable firmness of the gospel shines forth-something the world cannot comprehend.
Romans 16:16-27 thus collectively addresses "fellowship within the church," "discernment within the church," and "the firmness of the gospel." Paul's words "Greet one another with a holy kiss" symbolize deep love and spiritual intimacy within the church. In contrast, his exhortation to watch out for and avoid "those who cause divisions or stumbling" highlights the necessity for decisiveness and discernment in preserving the church's purity and growth. And Paul's final declaration-"the God of peace will crush Satan" and "he is able to strengthen you by this gospel"-contains a powerful message of hope that, in the end, the church will stand firm by the power and providence of God.
Rev. David Jang stresses that this passage speaks directly to today's church, where conflict arrows still strike our communities and false teaching threatens to trip us up. More than ever, we must stand firm on the foundation of the gospel. When churches face criticism from society or internal challenges, the answer is not self-defense but rather the gospel itself. As Paul taught, it is the power of the gospel alone that transforms people and secures the church. Conversely, if the church, neglecting its gospel values, pursues worldly gain or political objectives, discord and strife will only grow.
Moreover, Rev. David Jang observes that practicing "wisdom in what is good and innocence in what is evil" requires more than just gathering for Sunday services; the congregation should foster deeper relationships of fellowship and care throughout the week. Engaging in Bible study and discussion can help believers jointly pursue righteousness and cultivate spiritual discernment against evil. When believers cherish and trust each other, divisive or deceptive teachings will find no fertile ground to take root.
Therefore, when we read that the church in Rome and other congregations Paul had established were sending greetings to one another, such greetings were more than mere courtesy. They signified, "We are one body, we pray and work together." The modern church similarly needs to transcend denominational and regional barriers to unite in worship and mission. This is not a matter of simply gathering for social events, but of standing together spiritually, offering practical financial or staffing support where needed.
In this way, the closing of Romans 16 acknowledges the real threats inherent in the church (conflict, temptation, etc.) without avoiding them, while pointing to the gospel as the fundamental force capable of overcoming them. Ultimately, it is the gospel that renews the church and calls it back to its original identity as a holy, unified community. Conflict flourishes where the gospel is absent, and false teaching gains traction by distorting the essence of the gospel. But if the church remains firmly rooted in the gospel, then no attack or temptation can prevail, for "the God of peace" will drive them out, bringing to pass the promise: "He will soon crush Satan under your feet."
Rev. David Jang reminds believers not to forget this essential framework from the text. Churches today still face the danger of disunity, confront worldly culture, and are beset by temptations that unsettle our faith. Hence, it is crucial that our communities work diligently to avoid creating gaps for conflict, practicing holy fellowship, mutual care, and service. We must also exercise discernment in identifying and distancing ourselves from whatever may undermine or test the church. On a personal level, we must hold to Paul's exhortation to be "wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil," undergoing spiritual training to examine ourselves continually in the light of the gospel. As we pursue that path, we can trust God's promise that He, the God of peace, will thwart Satan's schemes and fill us with the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 16:16-27 presents the essential vision for the church community. It calls the church to holy fellowship and hospitality ("Greet one another with a holy kiss"), warns against divisiveness and stumbling ("mark and avoid those who cause divisions"), and lifts up the immovable bedrock of the gospel and the grand objective of God's glory. Rev. David Jang emphasizes that, according to this passage, the church's path away from strife and toward holy unity lies in the power of the gospel. As we distance ourselves from evil and draw near to good, the God of peace will guide the church into peace just as He promised.
Paul's final doxology-"to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen"-reminds us that everything both originates from God and returns to Him. It is God who enables the gospel to transform lives and establish the church, and it is God who calls the church to display His glory, uniting us beyond our conflicts and strife. Therefore, with the confession "Glory to God," the church reaffirms its purpose for being and stands in front of the world, faithful to the gospel and loyal to one another.
Rev. David Jang sees these concluding admonitions in Romans 16 as a direct message for churches and believers today. We remain vulnerable to divisions and open to countless temptations that can threaten our faith, so we must remember: the community should strive to deepen fellowship and mutual service, preventing splits from forming, and be vigilant in recognizing and warning against those forces that undermine the church. Meanwhile, on the individual level, we must take seriously Paul's charge to be "wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil," continually measuring ourselves against the gospel. As the church embraces this approach, God's promise holds fast: the God of peace will defeat Satan, and we will be filled with the grace of our Lord Jesus.
Romans 16:16-27, then, shows us the core blueprint for the church's progress: holy fellowship and hospitality, a watchful eye for discord and those who cause believers to stumble, and a resolute grounding in the gospel that culminates in giving glory to God. As Rev. David Jang underscores, if the church adheres to these principles-displaying both discernment and love-then the "firmness of the gospel" championed by Paul will radiate powerfully in that community. Finally, "to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen" reminds us that all things are from God, through God, and for God. The gospel alone stands as the force that renews individuals and sustains the church, enabling it to remain truly holy and united in Christ-a vital truth for believers in every age. By standing as one body, closely examining both ourselves and the wider world, we enter into the grand drama of salvation that returns unending glory to our wise God through Jesus Christ.
Rev. David Jang concludes that Romans 16, especially the final exhortations, has a very practical application for churches in our day. We should note that churches still face threats of division and must clash with the culture around them. Thus, we need to foster genuine fellowship and thorough caring within the body so that no opportunity is left for conflict to arise. We must also remain watchful, discern potential pitfalls, and warn others of those whose teachings could erode our faith. Individually, we should maintain a constant effort to "be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil," returning repeatedly to the gospel as our anchor and measure. As we do, the God of peace will vanquish Satan beneath our feet and pour out the grace of Jesus Christ upon us.
Thus, Romans 16:16-27 paints a portrait of the essential direction for a church community: practicing holy fellowship and hospitality, exercising discernment to forestall disputes, and always looking to the steadfastness of the gospel and the glory of God as the final goal. Rev. David Jang emphasizes that the church's path to overcoming strife and achieving holy unity lies precisely in the power of the gospel. The more we refrain from evil and draw near to good, the more the God of peace will lead us in peace. This message remains as relevant now as it was in Paul's time; it is a yardstick for how the church appears to the watching world. The church's identity and mission hinge on holiness, harmony, and the gospel's unshakable power-truths that today's believers must grasp anew. When the church remains faithful, standing together in one body, we take part in the sublime drama of salvation, in which "to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be glory forevermore." Amen.
