Who Was Apelles?
Apelles appears only once in Scripture, mentioned briefly in Paul's letter to the Romans. In Romans 16:10, Paul writes, "Greet Apelles, approved in Christ." Though this is our sole biblical reference to this believer, it speaks volumes about his spiritual standing. The phrase "approved in Christ" suggests that Apelles had demonstrated genuine faith and proven his commitment to following Jesus through his actions and steadfastness. He was someone known to Paul, likely encountered during Paul's missionary journeys, and evidently made such a positive spiritual impression that the apostle wanted him specifically greeted and recognized among the Roman church.
We know from context that Apelles lived during the first century and was part of the expanding Christian community in Rome. He was among many believers—both Jews and Gentiles—who formed the early church in that great city. The very fact that Paul mentions him by name among dozens of greetings in Romans 16 indicates Apelles held a meaningful place in the Christian fellowship. He was not a prominent apostle or traveling missionary, yet his faith was remarkable enough to warrant apostolic acknowledgment.
The Meaning of "Approved in Christ"
The Greek word translated as "approved" carries the sense of having been tested and proven genuine—like precious metal refined in fire. When Paul describes Apelles as "approved in Christ," he is saying that this believer's faith had been tested and found authentic. This approval did not come from man's opinion alone, but from the validation found in Christ himself. Apelles had demonstrated the fruit of the Spirit through his life, and his commitment to Jesus was evident to those around him, particularly to Paul.
This commendation reminds us that true Christian living is ultimately about being "approved" by Christ, not merely by our peers or church leaders. What matters most is not our reputation in worldly eyes, but whether our faith is genuine and our character reflects Jesus's values. Apelles apparently lived this reality—his faith was not superficial or performative, but deeply rooted in his relationship with Christ.
Practical Application for Today
While we know little about Apelles's specific circumstances, his brief mention offers profound encouragement. He reminds us that faithfulness matters, even when we serve quietly without recognition. Not every Christian will be known throughout the world; many of us will serve in humble capacities in our local churches and communities. Yet God sees and approves what we do in Christ's name. Like Apelles, we can strive to live in such a way that our faith is unmistakably genuine and our character obviously shaped by Christ.
Let us ask ourselves: Are we living lives that would warrant description as "approved in Christ"? Are our faith and character proven through testing and trial? May we, like Apelles, be known among our Christian community as those whose commitment to Jesus is authentic and steadfast, deserving of the approval that comes only from him.
"Greet Apelles, approved in Christ." — Romans 16:10 (ESV)