Romans 16:19-24 - Your obedience is known to all

16:19

Paul commends the Romans again, but with a warning not to be complacent. All churches need to be on their guard against false teachings. We are to be “wise about what is good”, and “innocent about what is evil”. 

16:20

Paul then gives them an encouragement. They lived in the centre of the Roman Empire, Rome itself. Paul assures them that the “God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet”. Note that he does not say “His feet”, but “your feet”. It is worth thinking about that. 

Paul then gives a common blessing of the grace of Christ being with them. We all live under the grace of Christ.

16:21-24

Timothy is mentioned in several of Paul’s letters, and, of course, has two letters devoted to him. Then he mentions three others named as “my fellow Jews”. Tertius would have been a scribe, rather than a co-author. Anyway, he adds his greetings. Then three of others are mentioned. Gaius is noted for his hospitality.