Romans 16:6

KJV

Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.

KJV (with Strong's)

Greet {G782} Mary {G3137}, who {G3748} bestowed {G2872} much {G4183} labour {G2872} on {G1519} us {G2248}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Give my greetings to Miryam, who has worked very hard for you.

Berean Standard Bible

Greet Mary, who has worked very hard for you.

American Standard Version

Salute Mary, who bestowed much labor on you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 16:6 offers a concise yet profound commendation from the Apostle Paul to a woman named Mary, recognizing her significant and diligent service within the early Christian community. Paul's instruction to "Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us" highlights the invaluable contributions of individuals, particularly women, who tirelessly supported the burgeoning church and its apostolic mission, underscoring the communal and collaborative nature of early Christian ministry in Rome.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 16 serves as a remarkable and deeply personal conclusion to Paul's magnum opus, the Epistle to the Romans. After systematically unfolding profound theological doctrines concerning justification by faith, sanctification, and God's sovereign plan for Israel, Paul transitions to a practical demonstration of Christian community and fellowship. This chapter, comprising a lengthy list of greetings and commendations, reveals the relational fabric of the early church. Mary's mention in [Romans 16:6](/romans/16-6 "Romans 16:6 - Paul's Greeting to Mary") is nestled among numerous other individuals, both men and women, whom Paul recognizes for their specific contributions, demonstrating his personal connection and gratitude to believers he may or may not have met in person, but whose reputations for faithful service preceded them within the network of house churches. This practice underscores the interconnectedness and mutual recognition vital for the spread of the Gospel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early Christian movement, particularly in bustling imperial centers like Rome, often found its strength in decentralized house churches. These informal gatherings, typically hosted by affluent or dedicated members, served as centers for worship, teaching, fellowship, and practical support. In this context, women played exceptionally prominent roles, often defying the more restrictive societal norms of the Greco-Roman world. While "Mary" was a common name, Paul's specific commendation indicates this Mary was a distinct and notable figure in the Roman Christian community. Her "labour" likely involved practical hospitality, financial support, organizing gatherings, or even evangelistic efforts, all crucial for sustaining the nascent church in a challenging environment. Paul's greetings were not mere formalities but vital affirmations, reinforcing bonds and validating the contributions of individuals in a time when communication and travel were arduous.
* **Key Themes:** The commendation of Mary in [Romans 16:6](/romans/16-6 "Romans 16:6 - Mary's Diligent Service") contributes to several overarching themes in Romans and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the **recognition and value of women in ministry and service**. Paul consistently acknowledges women like Phoebe, a deaconess ([Romans 16:1](/romans/16-1 "Romans 16:1 - Phoebe, a Deaconess")), and Priscilla, a fellow worker ([Romans 16:3](/romans/16-3 "Romans 16:3 - Priscilla and Aquila, Fellow Workers")), highlighting their indispensable roles in the early church's mission. Secondly, the verse emphasizes the **dignity and necessity of diligent service and partnership** within the body of Christ. Mary's "much labour" underscores that all forms of strenuous, dedicated effort for the Gospel's sake are vital and recognized by God and His apostles, reflecting the principle that every member contributes to the whole, as discussed in [1 Corinthians 12](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Spiritual Gifts and the Body of Christ"). Lastly, Paul's personal acknowledgment showcases the theme of **apostolic gratitude and mutual encouragement**, modeling how leaders should affirm and appreciate the faithful work of those who serve alongside them, fostering unity and perseverance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Greet (Greek, _aspázomai'_):** This verb (G782) means "to enfold in the arms," and by implication, "to salute" or "to welcome." In Paul's letters, it conveys a warm, affectionate, and respectful salutation, indicating a genuine personal regard for the individual. It's more than a casual hello; it implies a desire for their well-being and a recognition of their standing within the community.
* **bestowed (Greek, _kopiáō'_):** Derived from _kopos_ (toil, trouble), this verb (G2872) signifies "to feel fatigue" or, by implication, "to work hard" to the point of weariness. It describes intense, strenuous, and often exhausting effort. When applied to ministry, as it frequently is in the New Testament (e.g., [1 Thessalonians 5:12](/1_thessalonians/5-12 "1 Thessalonians 5:12 - Respect Those Who Labor")), it denotes sacrificial and dedicated exertion for the sake of the Gospel.
* **much (Greek, _polýs'_):** This adjective (G4183) means "much" or "many" in terms of quantity, degree, or extent. When paired with _kopiáō_, it intensifies the meaning, indicating that Mary's labor was not merely present but substantial, abundant, and significant in its scope and impact. It emphasizes the sheer volume and intensity of her dedicated service.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Greet Mary":** This direct command from Paul underscores the personal nature of his relationships within the Christian community. Despite "Mary" being a common name, this specific individual was known to Paul (likely by reputation or through mutual acquaintances) and held in high esteem. The instruction to "greet" implies a warm, personal salutation, signifying her recognized place and value within the fellowship.
* **"who bestowed much labour on us":** This clause reveals the specific reason for Mary's commendation. The phrase "bestowed much labour" (combining _kopiáō_ and _polýs_) indicates a profound, strenuous, and extensive effort on her part. The recipient of this labor, "us," likely refers to Paul and his missionary companions, or more broadly, to the apostolic mission and the wider Christian community. This suggests Mary was actively involved in supporting the Gospel's advancement, perhaps through hospitality, financial provision, practical assistance, or even direct participation in evangelism and teaching, to the point of personal exertion and fatigue.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's brief commendation of Mary in [Romans 16:6](/romans/16-6 "Romans 16:6 - Mary's Service") masterfully employs several literary techniques. The primary device is **Commendation**, where Paul directly praises Mary for her specific contribution, setting her forth as an example of faithful service. This act of naming and affirming individuals is a powerful rhetorical tool for building community and encouraging others. The phrase "bestowed much labour" functions as a form of **Understatement** or **Implication**, where a concise statement hints at a vast amount of unseen, dedicated, and possibly sacrificial work. The brevity of the description belies the depth and extent of her efforts, inviting the reader to infer the true measure of her commitment. Furthermore, the use of "labour" can be seen as a form of **Synecdoche**, where the part (the toil) represents the whole (her comprehensive and tireless service to the church and its ministers), encapsulating her entire contribution in a single, potent word.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mary's diligent service, so highly valued by Paul, resonates deeply with core Christian theological principles. Her "much labour" exemplifies the New Testament's emphasis on active, sacrificial service as a natural outflow of faith and love for Christ and His body. It underscores the truth that every believer, regardless of public prominence, is called to contribute their gifts and efforts for the building up of the church and the spread of the Gospel. This verse affirms the dignity of all work done in the Lord, recognizing that even seemingly ordinary acts of service—hospitality, practical aid, or personal exertion—are profoundly significant in God's economy. Mary's example challenges the notion that only those in formal leadership roles contribute meaningfully, highlighting the vital partnership between apostles and local believers, and the mutual dependence within the diverse body of Christ.

* [1 Corinthians 15:58](/1_corinthians/15-58 "1 Corinthians 15:58 - Labor in the Lord is Not in Vain")
* [Philippians 4:3](/philippians/4-3 "Philippians 4:3 - Paul's Fellow Workers")
* [Galatians 6:9-10](/galatians/6-9-10 "Galatians 6:9-10 - Do Not Grow Weary in Doing Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mary's commendation in [Romans 16:6](/romans/16-6 "Romans 16:6 - A Model of Diligent Service") offers timeless lessons for believers today. Her example calls us to a deeper commitment to diligent, even strenuous, service within our communities and for the advancement of the Gospel. It reminds us that true Christian labor is often characterized by self-giving and perseverance, sometimes to the point of weariness, but that such effort is never in vain in the Lord. Moreover, Paul's specific and public acknowledgment of Mary serves as a powerful model for us to intentionally recognize, affirm, and appreciate those who serve faithfully, often behind the scenes, within our churches and ministries. Just as Paul relied on the practical support of individuals like Mary, so too do contemporary ministries depend on the tireless dedication of countless "Marys" whose quiet, consistent labor forms the backbone of the church's mission. We are challenged to consider how we can emulate Mary's selfless dedication, finding ways to "bestow much labour" for the glory of God and the good of His people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Mary's example encourage you to view your own contributions to the church or community, regardless of their visibility?**
* **Who are the "Marys" in your life or church community whose diligent, often unseen, labor deserves recognition and appreciation?**
* **In what practical ways can you "bestow much labour" for the furtherance of the Gospel and the support of God's people today?**

### FAQ
**Is this Mary the same as other Marys in the New Testament?**

Answer: While "Mary" (Maria/Mariam) was a very common name in the ancient world, it is highly unlikely that the Mary mentioned in [Romans 16:6](/romans/16-6 "Romans 16:6 - Mary of Rome") is Mary the mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, or Mary of Bethany (sister of Martha and Lazarus). Paul's letters typically refer to specific individuals within the local churches he was addressing or connected with. Given that Paul had not yet visited Rome when he wrote this letter, this Mary was likely a prominent member of the Roman Christian community, known to Paul through other believers or by her reputation for service. Her unique commendation for "much labour" suggests a distinct identity within the Roman church, separate from the more famous Marys of the Gospels.

**What does "bestowed much labour" imply about Mary's service?**

Answer: The phrase "bestowed much labour" (Greek: _kopiáō polýs_) signifies intense, strenuous, and extensive effort, often to the point of weariness. It implies that Mary's service was not casual or superficial but involved deep commitment and significant personal exertion. While the exact nature of her "labour" is not specified, in the context of early house churches and Paul's ministry, it could have encompassed various vital activities: providing hospitality to traveling missionaries like Paul's associates, hosting a house church, offering financial support, preparing meals, caring for the sick, teaching new converts, or even engaging in evangelism. It suggests she was a highly active and dedicated participant in the practical, day-to-day work of sustaining and expanding the Christian community in Rome, much like Phoebe who served the church at Cenchreae ([Romans 16:1-2](/romans/16-1-2 "Romans 16:1-2 - Phoebe's Service")) or Priscilla and Aquila who risked their lives for Paul ([Romans 16:3-4](/romans/16-3-4 "Romans 16:3-4 - Priscilla and Aquila's Ministry")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mary's "much labour" for Paul and the early church finds its ultimate meaning and power in Christ, serving as a beautiful reflection of His own self-giving service and the transformative work He initiated. Her diligent efforts are not merely human exertions but are empowered by the Spirit of Christ, enabling believers to participate in the ongoing mission of God. Just as Christ "emptied himself" and "took the form of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/phil_2/7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")), Mary's labor embodies a Christ-like humility and dedication to others. Our ability to "bestow much labour" is a direct result of Christ's victory over sin and death, which liberates us to serve with purpose and hope. Furthermore, all Christian service, including Mary's, contributes to the building up of the body of Christ, of which He is the head ([Ephesians 4:15-16](/eph_4/15-16 "Ephesians 4:15-16 - Growth in Christ")). Our labor is not for personal gain but for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom, a kingdom inaugurated and sustained by the Lord Jesus. Ultimately, every act of service, every "much labour," is a response to Christ's call to follow Him and to be His hands and feet in the world, knowing that our "labor in the Lord is not in vain" because He is faithful to reward those who serve Him ([1 Corinthians 15:58](/1_corinthians/15-58 "1 Corinthians 15:58 - Our Labor in the Lord")).

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

Romans 16:12

Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord.

Matthew 27:55

And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:

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.