Apelles
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Apelles in the Bible?
Apelles was a Christian in Rome greeted by the Apostle Paul in Romans 16:10, where he is described as 'approved in Christ,' suggesting a reputation for reliability and steadfastness within the early Christian community.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Apelles helps readers understand the social fabric of the early Roman church, showing that the community included individuals recognized for their integrity and faithfulness, thereby illustrating the personal connections and mutual trust that sustained early Christian networks.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Apelles reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Apelles in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Apelles clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Romans 16:10
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Apelles." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/apelles/