King James Version

What Does Romans 16:8 Mean?

Romans 16:8 in the King James Version says “Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.” — study this verse from Romans chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.”

Romans 16:8 · KJV

Context

6

Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.

7

Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.

8

Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.

9

Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.

10

Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household. household: or, friends

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord—Aspasasthe Ampliaton ton agapēton mou en kyriō (ἀσπάσασθε Ἀμπλιᾶτον τὸν ἀγαπητόν μου ἐν κυρίῳ). Agapēton (ἀγαπητός, beloved) indicates deep affection—Paul reserves this for close co-workers (Epaphras, Colossians 1:7; Onesimus, Philemon 16; Timothy, 1 Corinthians 4:17). En kyriō (in the Lord) qualifies the love—not mere human affection but love rooted in shared union with Christ. Christian love is distinctive: rooted in redemption, transcending natural kinship, ethnicity, class.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ampliatus was common slave name (shortened from Ampliatus). Archaeological evidence: a tomb in Rome's catacomb of Domitilla (late 1st/early 2nd century) bears the inscription 'Ampliatus' in prominent lettering, suggesting this might be Paul's friend, honored by the church. Many early Christians were slaves or freedmen (1 Corinthians 7:21-23, Philemon). Paul's commendation transcends social hierarchy—in Christ, slave and free are brothers (Galatians 3:28). The church's countercultural dignity for slaves and women attracted converts across Roman society.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean to love someone '<em>en kyriō</em>' (in the Lord) versus natural affection—how is Christian love distinct?
  2. How does Paul's affection for Ampliatus (likely a slave) demonstrate the gospel's power to transcend social hierarchies?
  3. Who are the 'Ampliatus' figures in your church—faithful believers from marginalized backgrounds—and how can you honor them?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 7 words
ἀσπάσασθε1 of 7

“Greet”

G782

to enfold in the arms, i.e., (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome

Ἀμπλίαν2 of 7

“Amplias”

G291

amplias, a roman christian

τὸν3 of 7
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀγαπητόν4 of 7

“beloved”

G27

beloved

μου5 of 7

“my”

G3450

of me

ἐν6 of 7

“in”

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

κυρίῳ7 of 7

“the Lord”

G2962

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Romans. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Romans 16:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Romans 16:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 John 3:14Philippians 4:1Romans 16:5

Test Your Knowledge

Romans 16 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRomans Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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