Who was Tertius in the Bible? Overview of Tertius Tertius appears in the New Testament as a scribe (amanuensis) who helped compose the Epistle to the Romans. This is one of the few instances in the Bible where a writer reveals his role in physically recording Scripture, illustrating the common first-century practice of dictation to trained scribes. Tertius is remembered chiefly for his single mention in Romans, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the process of composing letters in the early church. Scriptural Reference The primary (and only) explicit reference to Tertius in the Bible is found in Romans 16:22: “I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the Lord.” In this text, he identifies himself as the individual who actually penned the apostle Paul’s words. His greeting, “greet you in the Lord,” further indicates his fellowship in Christ, suggesting he was not merely a hired scribe but a believer who engaged in spiritual service alongside Paul. Name and Cultural Background 1. Meaning of His Name Tertius is a Latin name meaning “third.” In Roman culture, it was customary to name children by their birth order or other numerical significance. The presence of a Roman name also highlights how the early church spread into Gentile communities, where believers from varied cultural contexts embraced the gospel. 2. Possible Location Romans was likely written while Paul stayed in Corinth (cf. Romans 16:1 with 1 Corinthians 1:14, and Acts 18:1–18). Since Tertius recorded the letter, it is plausible he was in Corinth at the time, though the text does not specify his permanent location. Role as an Amanuensis 1. Historical Practice In the first century, dictation to scribes was a widespread practice, both in Jewish and Greco-Roman settings. Many authors (including political leaders, philosophers, and religious figures) employed trained writers to ensure clarity and accuracy. Tertius’s work exemplifies this practice. 2. Collaboration with Paul While Paul regularly used a scribe, he often included a personal note written “with [his] own hand” (cf. 1 Corinthians 16:21; Galatians 6:11). In Romans, Tertius clearly names himself as the scribe, while Paul’s concluding greetings maintain apostolic authority. This collaboration underscores the unity of believers in proclaiming the gospel. 3. Inspiration and Reliability Even though Romans was physically written by Tertius, the message is attributed to Paul and ultimately to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit (cf. 2 Peter 1:20–21). The role of a scribe does not diminish the letter’s authority; instead, it reflects the historical reality of how Scripture was transmitted in the ancient world. Connection to the Early Church 1. Membership among the Believers Tertius’s brief salutation—“greet you in the Lord”—indicates fellowship in Christ. This closeness with Paul and the church community suggests Tertius was more than a simple copyist. He was likely an active participant in the ministry and message that Paul sought to share. 2. Possible Church Tradition Unlike figures such as Timothy or Titus, Tertius does not feature prominently in subsequent church writings or tradition. Though historical records do not give further details about his life or ministry, his appearance in Scripture is sufficient to establish him as a genuine person serving a real function in the formative days of the church. Significance in the Epistle to the Romans 1. Structure and Literary Style Romans contains some of the New Testament’s richest theology, addressing topics from justification by faith (Romans 3:21–28) to sanctification and Israel’s place in salvation history (Romans 9–11). Tertius’s transcription ensured the letter’s nuances and theological depth were accurately recorded. 2. Snapshot of Early Christian Service Tertius’s mention reminds readers that the writing, preservation, and circulation of Scripture often involved close-knit cooperation among believers. Together, Paul’s Apostolic role, Tertius’s scribal expertise, and the local church’s support fostered the effective communication of life-changing truth, culminating in a written letter that continues to shape Christian doctrine worldwide. 3. Encouragement for Modern Readers Tertius illustrates how each role in the body of Christ—whether seemingly grand or simple—serves the greater mission of glorifying God. Though Tertius is only named in a single verse, his faithful efforts contributed greatly to the spread of foundational Christian teachings. Textual and Archaeological Note 1. Manuscript Evidence While Romans 16:22 is universally included in the extant Greek manuscripts, it is rare for a scribe to name himself. This uniqueness is part of the broader evidence for the historical reliability and integrity of the letters attributed to Paul. Scholars who compare ancient manuscripts affirm the consistency regarding Tertius’s role. 2. Archaeological Background Archaeological studies have uncovered tablets, wax writing instruments, and various scribal tools in the wider Greco-Roman world, giving modern readers a glimpse into how letters like Romans were composed. Such discoveries reinforce the everyday authenticity of references like Tertius, revealing that these accounts align with known first-century practices of letter-writing. Conclusion Tertius was the scribe who penned Paul’s letter to the Romans and offered his personal greeting to believers in that epistle. Though briefly mentioned, his presence confirms that the production and preservation of Scripture in the early church involved multiple cooperative roles, all used by God to ensure the message of salvation in Christ would be accurately transmitted. Tertius’s involvement exemplifies the ordinary faithfulness of one who contributed a vital, if seemingly small, piece to the grand tapestry of biblical history. |
    |