Chapter summary from Constable:
“This sixteenth chapter is neglected by many to their own loss. It is by far the most extensive, intimate and particular of all the words of loving greeting in Paul’s marvelous letters. No one can afford to miss this wonderful outpouring of the heart of our apostle toward the saints whom he so loved-which means all the real Church of God!” [Note: Newell, p. 548.]
“. . . Paul’s extensive request for greetings in Romans 16 may reflect his desire to mention all the Christians in Rome he knows-a procedure plainly impossible in those letters directed to churches where he has ministered.” [Note: Moo, p. 917.]
“. . . Paul was a friend maker as well as a soul winner. He did not try to live an isolated life; he had friends in the Lord, and he appreciated them.” [Note: Wiersbe, 1:565.]”
Romans 16:1-5 (WEL) I commend to you Phoebe, our sister, who is a deaconess of the congregation at Cenchrea. 2 So you may welcome her in the Lord in a worthy manner as saints and assist her in whatever matter she has need of you, for she has been a helper to many, including me. 3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my helpers in Christ Jesus, 4 who have risked their lives for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but also all the congregations of the Gentiles. 5 Likewise, [greet] the congregation that is in their house. Say, “Hi,” to my dear friend Epaenetus, who is the first convert to Christ from Achaia.
V1 I commend to you Phoebe, our sister, who is a deaconess of the congregation at Cenchrea.
Deaconess is an official church office because 1) sisters in Christ are also gifted by the Holy Spirit and 2) they are necessary for ministering to women because of safety, modesty, and women understand women better than men do. The gifted sisters in any congregation do so. It seems reasonable then to recognize their ministry officially.
V2 So you may welcome her in the Lord in a worthy manner as saints and assist her in whatever matter she has need of you, for she has been a helper to many, including me.
In the first century particularly, church officials and evangelists often traveled from city to city ministering. Phoebe has experience, was known to Paul, and recognized gifts to assist the church (believers).
V3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my helpers in Christ Jesus,
These are fellow Jews assisting in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
V4 Who have risked their lives for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but also all the congregations of the Gentiles.
Martyrs were already becoming common, starting with Stephen and the Apostle James (brother of the Apostle John). They loved the Lord Jesus and serving Him more than their own lives.
John 12:25-26 (MSB) Whoever loves his life will lose it, but whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, My servant will be as well. If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.
Matthew 16:25-26 (MSB) For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?
V5 Likewise, [greet] the congregation that is in their house. Say, “Hi,” to my dear friend Epaenetus, who is the first convert to Christ from Achaia.
More greetings. Note the personal tone of addressing these believers.
We learn:
- There is an official church office for gifted and recognized women.
- Recognizing others on a personal level.
Questions:
- Are you helping fellow Christians who are ministering to others?
- Are you recognizing and crediting fellow Christians personally?