Romans Part 43

Romans 16 begins with something very different from the theological arguments that have occupied much of the letter. Paul now turns his attention to other servants, greeting and commending the men and women who were serving faithfully within the Church. Their examples show that God's work is not accomplished by a few prominent leaders alone. It depends on many people who faithfully serve, encourage, protect, and support one another.

Verse 1 introduces Phoebe, whom Paul calls a "diakonos." The word means a servant or minister and is the same word from which we get the term deacon. Phoebe is the only specific example we have in Scripture of a woman being identified with this term in this way. Phoebe is shown as a woman who faithfully served the Church.

This also gives helpful perspective to the practice of appointing women as deaconesses. The purpose of laying on of hands is to set someone apart for a particular purpose and ask for God's blessing on that service. The designation of deacon or deaconess simply identifies someone who has been entrusted with a role of service. When we focus on what is being done rather than constructing an elaborate system of offices and authority, the practice becomes much easier to understand. The important question is not whether the title creates a new office, but whether the person is being set apart to faithfully serve God's people according to biblical principles.

In verse 2, Paul gives Phoebe another remarkable description. He calls her a "prostatis," meaning a benefactor, helper, patron, guardian, or protector. The word carries the idea of someone who stands over others to provide protection or assistance. Phoebe evidently had a reputation for using her resources and influence to help God's people, including Paul himself when he was in need. Her service was not insignificant. She was someone others could depend upon.

Verses 3–5 introduce Priscilla and Aquila, whom Paul had previously met in Corinth after the Jews had been expelled from Rome. Acts 18:2 records that they had left Rome because of the expulsion and later worked alongside Paul. By the time Romans was written, they had apparently returned to Rome and were hosting a congregation in their home. Their example demonstrates the importance of hospitality and willingness to use one's home and resources in service to God's people. They were not simply church attendees. Their home became a place where God's people could gather and fellowship.

Paul continues his greetings in verse 7 by mentioning Andronicus and Junia, whom he calls his “kinsmen” and “fellow prisoners.” The word “kinsmen” can refer to relatives or fellow Israelites, although their names themselves are not distinctly Jewish. They may have been Gentile converts from the same general region as Paul. Paul also says that they were in Christ before him, meaning they had become Christians before Paul's own conversion. They were well known among the apostles and had apparently suffered imprisonment for their faith.

Their description as “fellow prisoners” likely refers to one of Paul's earlier imprisonments rather than the imprisonment that eventually brought him to Rome. Paul mentions having endured numerous imprisonments elsewhere, including 2 Corinthians 11:23. These individuals had apparently shared in those hardships and demonstrated their commitment to Christ alongside Paul.

The opening verses of Romans 16 therefore give us a picture of something Paul has emphasized throughout the letter: Christianity is lived out through faithful relationships and service. Phoebe served and helped others. Priscilla and Aquila opened their home. Andronicus and Junia endured suffering for the gospel. None of these examples are presented merely as people who believed the right things. Their faith was expressed through what they did for God's people.

Epistles of Paul is a course taught at ABC by Mr. Steve Myers. Recordings from the 2023–2024 class year are available on the ABC website. 

UYA Team | uya@ucg.org  

United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.