Romans 16:2

Commentary on Romans 16:2

Romans 16:2 is part of Paul's personal greetings and commendations at the close of his letter to the church in Rome. This verse specifically instructs the Roman believers on how to receive and treat Phoebe, whom Paul introduces in the preceding verse.

Context

This verse follows directly from Romans 16:1, where Paul introduces Phoebe as a "servant" (KJV: "deaconess") of the church at Cenchrea, a port city near Corinth. It is highly probable that Phoebe herself was the bearer of this monumental letter from Paul to the Roman church, making Paul's instructions for her reception particularly crucial. The closing chapter of Romans is rich with personal names, highlighting the interconnectedness of early Christian communities and the vital roles played by various individuals, including women, in the spread of the Gospel.

Key Themes

• Christian Hospitality and Reception: The command to "receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints" underscores the profound importance of welcoming fellow believers with hospitality. This is not merely human courtesy but an act done "in the Lord," reflecting Christian love, unity, and a shared spiritual identity. It sets a standard for how believers should treat one another, as befits those who are set apart for God's purposes.
• Mutual Support and Practical Assistance: Paul urges the Romans to "assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you." This highlights the practical outworking of Christian love – providing tangible help and bearing one another's burdens. Phoebe likely had a specific mission or task in Rome (perhaps delivering the letter, or other church-related matters) for which she would require support from the local believers.
• Recognition of Faithful Service: The reason given for their support – "for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also" – emphasizes the value of recognizing and honoring those who faithfully serve the body of Christ. Phoebe's proven track record of selfless assistance and patronage serves as a strong basis for her being worthy of their help.
• The Significant Role of Women in Early Church Ministry: Phoebe's dual designation as a `diakonos` (servant/deaconess) and `prostatis` (succourer/patroness) in these verses clearly points to the active and influential roles women held in the early church, often providing crucial practical, financial, and leadership support.

Linguistic Insights

• The Greek word translated "succourer" is prostatis. This is a significant term, often rendered as "patroness," "helper," "guardian," or "protector." It describes someone who stands before others, offering substantial aid, resources, and advocacy. It indicates that Phoebe was not merely a passive recipient of help but an active and influential benefactor and supporter within the Christian community, providing significant assistance to many, including Paul himself.
• The phrase "in the Lord" (Greek: en Kyrio) emphasizes that the reception, assistance, and indeed all Christian interactions, are to be conducted with a spiritual mindset, reflecting the unity and love found in Christ.

Practical Application

Romans 16:2 offers timeless principles for believers today. It reminds us of the ongoing call to extend genuine hospitality and practical assistance to those who serve the Lord, especially those traveling for ministry or in genuine need. It challenges us to recognize and support the faithful service of others within the church, understanding that past faithfulness is a strong indicator of worthiness for future support. Furthermore, it affirms that every believer, regardless of their specific role or gender, can be a "succourer" – a helper, patron, or supporter – within the body of Christ, using their God-given resources and gifts for the benefit of others and the advancement of the Gospel.