Romans 16:2

KJV

That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.

KJV (with Strong's)

That {G2443} ye receive {G4327} her {G846} in {G1722} the Lord {G2962}, as becometh {G516} saints {G40}, and {G2532} that ye assist {G3936} her {G846} in {G1722} whatsoever {G3739}{G302} business {G4229} she hath need {G5535} of you {G5216}: for {G1063} she {G3778}{G846} hath been {G1096} a succourer {G4368} of many {G4183}, and {G2532} of myself {G846}{G1700} also {G2532}.

Complete Jewish Bible

so that you may welcome her in the Lord, as God’s people should, and give her whatever assistance she may need from you; for she has been a big help to many people — including myself.

Berean Standard Bible

Welcome her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her with anything she may need from you. For she has been a great help to many people, including me.

American Standard Version

that ye receive her in the Lord, worthily of the saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever matter she may have need of you: for she herself also hath been a helper of many, and of mine own self.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 16:2 serves as Paul's earnest plea to the Roman believers to extend a warm and honorable reception to Phoebe, the likely bearer of his epistle, and to provide her with any necessary assistance. Paul grounds this exhortation in Phoebe's proven character and invaluable service as a patroness and helper to many, including himself, thereby underscoring the mutual support and recognition vital within the early Christian community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Paul's closing remarks and personal greetings in [Romans 16](/romans/16 "Romans 16 - Paul's Greetings and Doxology"), immediately following his introduction of Phoebe in [Romans 16:1](/romans/16-1 "Romans 16:1 - Paul Commends Phoebe"). The entire chapter is unique for its extensive list of individuals Paul greets and commends, highlighting the relational network that underpinned the early church's mission. Paul's specific instructions regarding Phoebe's reception underscore her significant role, likely as the letter's courier, making her safe and supported arrival in Rome paramount for the letter's delivery and the proper understanding of its weighty theological content. The commendation of Phoebe sets a precedent for how believers should treat those who serve the Gospel, especially when they travel on behalf of the church.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Roman Empire, in Paul's time, had a well-established system of patronage, where influential individuals (patrons) would provide support and protection to clients in exchange for loyalty and various services. The term "succourer" (Greek: _prostatis_) used for Phoebe strongly aligns with this cultural practice, indicating she was a person of means and influence who provided substantial material and social support to Christians, including Paul. Cenchrea, mentioned in [Romans 16:1](/romans/16-1 "Romans 16:1 - Phoebe of Cenchrea"), was a port city of Corinth, suggesting Phoebe's role was recognized beyond her local assembly. Travel in the ancient world was perilous, making Paul's request for the Romans to "receive her in the Lord" and "assist her" not merely a polite request but a vital appeal for hospitality and practical aid, especially for a woman traveling on an important mission. This context also illuminates the significant, active roles women held in early Christian communities, often as patrons, deacons, and influential figures.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Romans and Paul's broader theology. It emphasizes the theme of **Christian Unity and Mutual Support**, demonstrating how believers, regardless of their location, are part of one body and are called to care for one another, as seen in Paul's exhortations for unity throughout [Romans 12](/romans/12 "Romans 12 - Living Sacrifices and Spiritual Gifts"). The instruction to "receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints" highlights the theme of **Holy Conduct and Christian Hospitality**, reflecting the call for believers to live in a manner consistent with their new identity in Christ, as also articulated in [Ephesians 4:1-3](/ephesians/4-1-3 "Ephesians 4:1-3 - Living Worthy of the Calling"). Furthermore, Phoebe's commendation underscores the **Recognition and Affirmation of Faithful Service** within the church, illustrating that those who labor for the Gospel are worthy of honor and practical assistance, echoing principles found in [1 Timothy 5:17-18](/1_timothy/5-17-18 "1 Timothy 5:17-18 - Honoring Elders"). Finally, the verse subtly reinforces the **Active Participation of Women in Ministry**, challenging later interpretations that might limit their roles, by showcasing Phoebe's prominent and indispensable service.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **succourer (Greek, _prostátis'_):** This term (G4368) is the feminine form of a word meaning "one who stands before," "a patroness," "helper," or "protector." It describes someone who provides substantial aid, resources, and advocacy, often implying a position of social standing and financial means. Phoebe was not merely a recipient of help, but an active benefactor and supporter within the Christian community, offering significant assistance to many, including Paul himself.
* **in (Greek, _en'_):** This preposition (G1722) denotes a fixed position, state, or instrumentality. When combined with "the Lord" (G2962, _kýrios_), it signifies that the action of receiving is to be done within the sphere of Christ's authority, according to His principles, and motivated by the spiritual unity shared in Him. It means the reception is not merely human courtesy but a spiritual act, reflecting a shared identity and purpose in Christ.
* **assist (Greek, _parístēmi'_):** This verb (G3936) means "to stand beside," "to exhibit," "to proffer," or "to be at hand (or ready), aid." It conveys the idea of providing active, ready, and practical help. Paul is not asking for passive goodwill but for the Roman believers to be actively available and willing to provide whatever practical support Phoebe might need for her "business" or mission.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints,"**: Paul begins with a strong exhortation for the Roman church to welcome Phoebe. The phrase "in the Lord" elevates this act of hospitality from a mere social custom to a spiritual imperative, implying that their reception should be consistent with their shared faith and identity in Christ. The qualifier "as becometh saints" (Greek: _axíōs hagíōn_) further emphasizes that their conduct should be worthy of those who are set apart and consecrated to God, reflecting Christian love, purity, and mutual respect.
* **"and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you:"**: This clause specifies the practical outworking of their reception. Paul anticipates that Phoebe will have "business" (Greek: _prâgma_, meaning an affair, matter, or work) in Rome for which she will require their help. This likely refers to the delivery of the letter itself, or other ministry-related tasks. The command to "assist" (Greek: _parístēmi_) implies active and ready support, demonstrating tangible love and solidarity.
* **"for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also."**: Paul provides the compelling reason for his request, appealing to Phoebe's established character and proven service. The conjunction "for" (Greek: _gár_) introduces the justification. Phoebe's past generosity and active patronage ("succourer," _prostátis_) to numerous individuals, including Paul himself, serve as a powerful testament to her worthiness of their reciprocal support. This highlights the principle of honoring those who serve and the reciprocal nature of Christian community.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this verse to strengthen his appeal. The primary device is **Commendation**, where Paul explicitly praises Phoebe's character and past service ("she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also") to establish her credibility and worthiness of the Roman believers' support. This commendation serves as a form of **Ethos**, appealing to the audience's sense of moral character and trust. Coupled with this is **Exhortation**, as Paul directly commands the Romans to "receive her" and "assist her," using imperative language that conveys the urgency and importance of his request. The phrase "as becometh saints" functions as a subtle form of **Admonition** or **Appeal to Identity**, reminding the believers of their spiritual standing and the conduct expected of them as God's holy people, thereby reinforcing the spiritual basis for their actions.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully illustrates the theological principle of the church as a unified body, where members are called to mutual care, support, and recognition of one another's gifts and service. It underscores that Christian hospitality is not merely a social nicety but a spiritual discipline, an act of love performed "in the Lord," reflecting the very nature of God's welcoming grace. Phoebe's role as a "succourer" highlights the diverse ways believers contribute to the kingdom, especially through practical assistance and patronage, affirming that all forms of faithful service, whether public or behind-the-scenes, are vital and worthy of honor. The reciprocity implied—Phoebe's past help warranting future assistance—speaks to the communal interdependence and reciprocal love that should characterize the Christian fellowship.

* [Hebrews 13:1-2](/hebrews/13-1-2 "Hebrews 13:1-2 - Practice Hospitality")
* [Galatians 6:9-10](/galatians/6-9-10 "Galatians 6:9-10 - Do Good to All")
* [Philippians 4:14-19](/philippians/4-14-19 "Philippians 4:14-19 - Paul's Gratitude for Support")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 16:2 provides a timeless blueprint for how believers should interact within the body of Christ and with those who serve the Lord. It calls us to cultivate a spirit of genuine hospitality, not just as a social courtesy, but as an act performed "in the Lord," reflecting our shared identity and purpose in Him. This means actively seeking to welcome and integrate fellow believers, especially those new to a community or traveling for ministry. Furthermore, the verse challenges us to move beyond mere well-wishing to providing tangible, practical assistance to those in need, particularly those who are faithfully laboring for the Gospel. Just as Phoebe supported many, we are called to be "succourers" in our own spheres, using our resources, time, and gifts to uplift and enable others in their service. This requires discernment, generosity, and a willingness to step into the practical realities of others' needs, recognizing that supporting fellow servants is a direct contribution to the advancement of God's kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my current practice of hospitality align with the idea of receiving others "in the Lord, as becometh saints"?**
* **In what practical ways can I "assist" those in my church or community who are serving the Lord, especially those who may be traveling or in need?**
* **Whose faithful service have I benefited from, and how can I reciprocate that support or honor their contributions?**
* **How can I embody the spirit of a "succourer" or "patron" within my own sphere of influence, using my resources to empower others in their ministry?**

### FAQ

**What does "receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints" mean for believers today?**

Answer: This phrase means that the reception and welcome extended to fellow believers should be done with a spiritual mindset, reflecting the unity, love, and holiness that characterize those who belong to Christ. It implies a welcome that goes beyond mere social politeness, embracing the individual as a fellow member of God's family, treating them with honor and respect that is worthy of their new identity in Christ. For believers today, it means actively practicing hospitality (as encouraged in [Romans 12:13](/romans/12-13 "Romans 12:13 - Practicing Hospitality")) and extending genuine care and support to all who bear the name of Christ, recognizing their inherent dignity and value in the Lord.

**What was Phoebe's "business" that required assistance?**

Answer: While the exact nature of Phoebe's "business" (Greek: _prâgma_) is not explicitly stated, the most widely accepted and probable understanding among scholars is that she was the bearer of Paul's letter to the Romans. Delivering such a weighty and theologically complex epistle would have been a significant undertaking, requiring not only safe passage but also potentially assistance in presenting and explaining its contents to the Roman church. Her "business" could also have involved other church-related matters or personal affairs that required the support of the local Christian community in Rome. Paul's request for assistance underscores the practical challenges of early Christian ministry and travel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 16:2, while a specific commendation, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The command to "receive her in the Lord" echoes Christ's own radical hospitality and welcoming of all who come to Him, regardless of their past. Just as Phoebe was a "succourer" to many, Christ is the ultimate Succourer and Patron, who, though rich, became poor for our sakes, that we through His poverty might be rich ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Example of Giving")). He is the one who "stands beside" us, not only aiding us in our weakness but also interceding for us at the right hand of God ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")). The call for believers to assist one another mirrors Christ's command to love one another as He has loved us ([John 13:34-35](/john/13-34-35 "John 13:34-35 - A New Commandment")), and to bear one another's burdens, thereby fulfilling the law of Christ ([Galatians 6:2](/galatians/6-2 "Galatians 6:2 - Bearing Burdens")). Ultimately, the church's practice of hospitality and mutual support is a reflection of the welcoming embrace of God in Christ, who has received us into His family and empowered us by His Spirit to serve one another as members of His body, for His glory ([Ephesians 2:19](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Philippians 2:29

Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:

Philippians 1:27

¶ Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

Matthew 10:40

He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.

Matthew 10:42

And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold [water] only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.

Romans 16:23

Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother.

Ephesians 5:3

¶ But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;

Philippians 4:14

Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.