I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. Welcome her in the Lord as one who is worthy of honor among God’s people. Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many, and especially to me. Romans 16:1-2 (NLT) Phoebe was known as a servant, the Greek word here is translated deacon, and a helper. Apparently she was a wealthy person who helped support Paul’s ministry. Phoebe was highly regarded in the church, and she may have delivered this letter from Corinth to Rome. This provides evidence that women had important roles in the early church. Crenchea, the where Phoebe lived, was the eastern port of Corinth, six miles from the city center. Paul recognized the value of what women could do in serving the church. It seems Paul sent an advance notice that Phoebe was on her way to Rome with his endorsement of her value to the church. He wanted to ensure that the church in Rome would receive and support her, as if she was Paul, himself, while she would be in Rome. Recommendations like this were important as there was both a legitimate need for this kind of help and often many deceivers would take advantage of the generosity of believers. It is more than likely Phoebe was a female deacon in the church and this would enable her to have formal recognition through her general service. Paul was highly complimented her service in doing gospel work.
Posted on: Sun, 20 Jul 2014 03:37:43 +0000
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