Romans 16:10, Approved In Christ

Romans 16:10 Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus’ household.

The word “approved” means tested and true. Apelles’ relationship is not made known here in our text. However, the Apostle Paul commends him to the church as one that God has tested and has proved himself faithful to Christ. MacArthur observed well, “dokimos (approved) carries the idea of being tried and tested and was used of precious metals, such as gold and silver, that passed tests for purity.”

Trials come our way to prove our faith. It is in those times of testing that we see our faith grows as we abide in Christ through prayer and His Word.

The psalmist in psalm 119 cries almost throughout the psalm. He speaks of the overwhelming trials that confront him and yet he attests also of God’s presence keep and strengthening him.

Psalm 119:22-24 Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies. 23 Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes. 24 Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellers.

Psalm 119:28-31 My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word. 29 Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously. 30 I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me. 31 I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O LORD, put me not to shame.

May God establish our faith and grant us Your approval. Amen.