Romans 16:13, Chosen in the Lord

Romans 16:13 Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.

This man Rufus is a chosen vessel wherewith God’s presence abide. Not so much his salvation but his godly character. He was one who lived out the Christian character. His love for God and the brethren is well-attested. And his mother cared for the Apostle Paul and is like a mother to him.

In the gospel of Mark, it is cited that he is the son of Simon of Cyrene, who carried the cross of Jesus.

Mark 15:21 And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.

Lenski interesting observed, “Mark wrote his Gospel a few years after Paul wrote Romans, and Mark alone tells the story of Simon and, when he does so, inserts the notice that he was the father of Alexander and Rufus. It is very likely that Mark wrote his Gospel in Rome and wrote it for the Romans. He named Simon’s sons because the Romans knew them and had at least Rufus as one of their members.”

This family has seen the Christ and have acknowledged His mission as our Saviour. Spiritually, they were transformed. His parents’ faith influenced him. Thank God for raising another disciple who loved Him and served Him. May God raised up Rufus in this generation to be an example to serve His people. Amen.