Celebrating the Family of God
Romans 16 concludes the Book of Romans and is often overlooked as it may seem like merely an extended list of greetings and farewells. Yet, this chapter reveals the deeply relational and practical nature of Paul’s ministry, showcasing the early church as a unified, close-knit community dedicated to the gospel.
I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also.
Paul refers to Phoebe as a diakonos (Greek for deacon, minister, or servant) of the church at Cenchrea—a seaport near Corinth—and commends her to the believers in Rome. Her role suggests that diaconal ministry included women as well as men in the early church. Phoebe was likely the courier who delivered Paul’s letter to the Romans, underscoring her crucial role in the early spread of the gospel.
Despite historical attempts to minimize women’s roles, the New Testament clearly portrays them as integral partners in ministry, with Phoebe as a prime example.
Partners in the Gospel (Romans 16:3-5)
Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia to Christ. Greet Mary, who labored much for us. Greet Andronicus and Junia, my countrymen and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. Greet Apelles, approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus. Greet Herodion, my countryman. Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord. Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord. Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren who are with them. Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. Greet one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you.
Paul warmly acknowledges numerous believers. Priscilla and Aquila, a devoted couple who courageously risked their lives for Paul. They hosted a house church in Ephesus (1 Corinthians 16:19), exemplifying commitment and hospitality. Mary, Tryphena, and Tryphosa were all women who worked tirelessly “in the Lord”. Their presence underscores how the early church depended on everyone—regardless of social status or gender. As for Andronicus and Junia scholars aren’t certain what their relationship is. But Junia was most likely either married to Andronicus, or they were brother and sister. They were known among the apostles, and they have been faithful believers for a long time.
The repeated word “greet” emphasizes how believers from different households and backgrounds formed one spiritual family in Rome.
Division in the Church
The Danger of Divisiveness (Romans 16:17-18)
Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.
We are warned strongly against divisiveness. Different perspectives are valuable, but division arising from envy, jealousy, or judgment is harmful.
Mark 3:25: "If a house is divided against itself, it cannot stand."
In Proverbs 6:16-19 God explicitly lists sowing discord among believers as detestable and hated by God.
Yes, seven are an abomination to Him:
A proud look,
A lying tongue,
Hands that shed innocent blood,
A heart that devises wicked plans,
Feet that are swift in running to evil,
A false witness who speaks lies,
Why does God hate divisiveness?
Because it is inconsistent with His nature, and because the source of divisiveness is Satan. God is about reconciliation; Satan is about division. God brings together things that are broken; Satan breaks things that are brought together. Someone who is divisive is not operating in the spirit of Jesus, but in the spirit of Satan.
Characteristics of divisive individuals (from Pastor Gary Hamrick):
Spirit: Self-serving, easily offended. James 3:16, “For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.”.
Words: Gossip and slander. Proverbs 16:28, “A perverse man sows strife, And a whisperer separates the best of friends."
Attitude: Prideful and un-teachable. Jude 1:17-19, “But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ: how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. These are sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the Spirit.”
Actions: Intentionally disrupting harmony. Proverbs 22:10, “Cast out the scoffer, and contention will leave; Yes, strife and reproach will cease.”
An example is Korah’s rebellion against Moses in Numbers 16, demonstrating the severe consequences of divisiveness.
How do we respond to divisive people?
Identify and warn divisive individuals; if necessary, distance ourselves and entrust their transformation to God.
Reflect internally to ensure we foster peace, not division.
Wisdom and Innocence (Romans 16:19-20)
For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly.
Paul encourages discernment and purity:
Be wise and discerning regarding good.
Remain innocent and untainted by evil.
We are in an unseen spiritual battle. Satan seeks to destroy and divide (1 Peter 5:8). But Our God promises victory over Satan, the crushing of Satan under the feet of believers.
Greetings from Paul’s Friends (Romans 16:21-24)
Benediction (Romans 16:25-27)
Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret since the world began but now made manifest…to God, alone wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever.
Paul praises God for revealing the mystery of the gospel—the inclusion of Gentiles, echoing prophetic visions from Daniel (Daniel 8:26, Daniel 12:4), fulfilled in Christ.
“And the vision of the evenings and mornings which was told is true. Therefore seal up the vision, for it refers to many days in the future.”
Daniel 12:4
“But you, Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book until the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.”
Toward the book's close, Daniel is again told to “seal the book.” The phrase “until the time of the end” suggests that much of the vision’s full meaning will be clearer to those living in the latter days.
Romans 16 emphasizes the necessity of unity, mutual respect, and partnership in ministry. We must:
- Celebrate each person's contributions.
- Guard against divisiveness.
- Foster humility, unity, and peace.
Let us embody this vision of a unified church family, strengthening one another, honouring Christ, and sharing the gospel’s transformative power.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the unity and fellowship found in Christ. Help us value each person's contribution, guard against division, and pursue wisdom and humility. Protect us from the enemy’s schemes, strengthen us through Your Holy Spirit, and enable us to reflect Your glory to the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Comments
Post a Comment