A special salutation.
It is somewhat singular that, the description of these brothers, Andronicus and Juntas, being so full and detailed, we should not meet with any other mention of them, either in the Acts or in St. Paul's Epistles. The connection between them and the apostle was close and manifold, and their claims to consideration were remarkably high.
I. There was FELLOWSHIP IN BLOOD between these brothers and St. Paul. Whether this was a close kindred, or simply consanguinity of race, the term does not make certain. In either case there is a recognition of the claims of kindred. Our blood-relationships, and even our ties of nationality and race, are of Divine appointment, and should not be disparaged or overlooked. When our kindred have a spiritual as well as a natural affinity with us, they should be doubly dear, and should be treated with special distinction and affection.
II. There was FELLOWSHIP IN SUFFERING FOR CHRIST. Paul was often in prison, and sometimes in companionship with those engaged in the same service, and therefore knowingly exposed to the same risks. It must have been a happy and honourable experience to be associated with such a man, even in bonds and imprisonment. Silas had joined him in his midnight hymns in the Philippian jail; Luke shared his imprisonment both on land and by sea; Aristarchus, Audronicus, and Juntas had in some place unknown to us, been his fellow-prisoners. Such community was not to be forgotten. It is a distinction to suffer for Christ, and with Christ's people. "If we suffer with Christ"—and this we do when we suffer with his people, and for his sake—"we shall also reign with him."
III. These men were in THE CONFIDENCE AND ESTEEM OF THE APOSTLES. Some have inferred from the language used that Andronicus and Juntas were numbered among the apostles, in the wider sense of that term. But it is more probable that they are mentioned as held in high respect and honour among the apostles generally. It is sufficient commendation for a man to be known as the trusted friend of the great and good. It is well to ask concerning any Christian—Who are his friends? Not—How is he regarded by the titled and the opulent? but—Is he in the confidence of those who are venerated and trusted servants of the Lord? "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise."
IV. There was PERSEVERANCE AND LONG-STANDING CONSISTENCY OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER. The Apostle Paul, when writing to the Romans, had himself been "in Christ" for very many years. But these brothers are mentioned by him as having been Christians before he himself had been brought to subjection to the Lord. As "old disciples," whose witness to Christ had been long and faithful, and who remained what they had been, Andronicus and Junias deserved greeting and commendation- '' Time tries all;" and time sets an approving seal upon those who for a lifetime have adorned the doctrine of God our Saviour. Respect is due to our seniors in the spiritual life. "Better is the end of a thing than the beginning."
APPLICATION.
1. Learn a generous appreciation of the character and services of brethren in Christ.
2. Forget not the ties of Christian fellowship dating from distant years.
3. Admire the power of Christianity to sanctify the social nature; and seek to afford in social intercourse a living example of this benign influence.