Romans 16:1

¶ I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea:

{G1161} I commend {G4921} unto you {G5213} Phebe {G5402} our {G2257} sister {G79}, which is {G5607} a servant {G1249} of the church {G1577} which {G3588} is at {G1722} Cenchrea {G2747}:

I am introducing to you our sister Phoebe, shammash of the congregation at Cenchrea,

I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea.

I commend unto you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church that is at Cenchreæ:

Commentary

Romans 16:1 introduces Phebe, a significant figure in the early Christian church, as Paul begins his final chapter of personal greetings and instructions in his letter to the Roman believers. This verse serves as a crucial commendation from the Apostle Paul, highlighting her character and service.

Context

Chapter 16 of Romans is unique for its extensive list of personal greetings, underscoring the interconnectedness of early Christian communities. Paul, writing from Corinth (or nearby Cenchrea) likely around 57 A.D., is introducing Phebe, who is widely believed to be the carrier of this very epistle to Rome. Her journey from Cenchrea, the eastern port city of Corinth, to Rome would have been significant and dangerous, requiring a person of trust and capability. Paul's commendation here is not merely a polite introduction but a strong endorsement, preparing the Roman church to receive and assist her.

Key Themes

  • Valued Service and Contribution: Phebe is explicitly identified as a "servant of the church," emphasizing her active and vital role in the Christian community. This highlights the importance of every believer's contribution to the body of Christ, a theme Paul elaborates on elsewhere, such as in his discussion of spiritual gifts and their diverse functions.
  • Recognition of Women in Ministry: The specific mention of Phebe and her role challenges modern assumptions about women's roles in the early church. Paul's unequivocal commendation of her, and his subsequent instruction in Romans 16:2 to "receive her in the Lord... and assist her," showcases her respected position and influence.
  • Christian Fellowship and Support: Paul's act of commending Phebe exemplifies the principle of mutual support and hospitality within the early church. Believers were expected to welcome and assist fellow Christians who traveled on ministry or personal journeys, reflecting the deep bonds of spiritual kinship.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated as "servant" in the phrase "servant of the church which is at Cenchrea" is diakonos (διάκονος). This term is often translated as "deacon" or "deaconess" in other New Testament contexts, such as the qualifications for deacons in 1 Timothy 3:8-13. While diakonos can generally mean "one who serves" or "minister," its use here for Phebe strongly suggests a recognized, official, and perhaps even ordained role within the church at Cenchrea. This implies a significant level of responsibility and leadership, not merely casual volunteering.

Practical Application

Romans 16:1 reminds us of several enduring truths for the church today:

  • Value All Forms of Service: Every act of service, big or small, visible or unseen, is vital to the health and growth of the church. We should recognize and affirm those who serve faithfully in various capacities.
  • Embrace Mutual Support: The church is a community built on love and support. Just as Paul commended Phebe, we are called to welcome, assist, and encourage fellow believers, especially those who serve God's purposes, embodying the spirit of doing good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.
  • Recognize Diverse Leadership: Phebe's example highlights that God uses people from all walks of life, including women, in significant roles of ministry and leadership within the church. It encourages us to look beyond traditional expectations and affirm God's calling on individuals based on their gifts and faithfulness.
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Cross-References

  • Acts 18:18

    ¶ And Paul [after this] tarried [there] yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn [his] head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.

  • 1 Peter 1:22

    Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, [see that ye] love one another with a pure heart fervently:

  • 1 Peter 1:23

    Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

  • 1 Timothy 5:9

    Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man,

  • 1 Timothy 5:10

    Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

  • 1 Timothy 5:2

    The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.

  • James 2:15

    If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
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