Romans 16:1-16
Personal Greetings

Today, 04/15/2023, let us, together in the grace of God, rejoice and reflect on the Word of God in Romans 16:1-16.

1 But I commend our sister Phoebe to you, being a servant of the assembly in Cenchrea,

2 that you may receive her in the Lord, as is worthy of the saints, and may assist her in whatever thing she may need of you. For she also became a helper of many, and of myself.

3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus,

4 who laid down their neck for my soul, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the assemblies of the nations.

5 And greet the assembly at their house, and my beloved Epenetus, who is a firstfruit of Achaia for Christ.

6 Greet Mary, who did much labor for us.

7 Greet Andronicus and Junias, my kinsmen and fellow prisoners, noted among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.

8 Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.

9 Greet Urbanus, our helper in Christ, and my beloved Stachys.

10 Greet Apelles, the approved in Christ; Greet those of Aristobulus.

11 Greet Herodion, my kinsman. Greet those of Narcissus, those being in the Lord.

12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, those laboring in the Lord. Greet Persis the beloved, who has labored in many things in the Lord.

13 Greet Rufus, the chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.

14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brothers with them.

15 Greet Philologus and Julias, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints with them.

16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. The assemblies of Christ greet you.

[Literal Translation of the Holy Bible]

Suggested Questions:

1. What can we learn about the early Christian church from the list of people mentioned in Romans 16:1-16?

2. In what ways did Phoebe serve the Church in Cenchreae, and how can her example inspire us to serve in our own communities?

3. What do you think Paul meant when he referred to Andronicus and Junia as “noted among the apostles” (Romans 16:7)?

4. Why do you think Paul greeted so many people by name in his letter to the Romans, and what might this say about his relationship with the Church in Rome?

Suggested Applications:

1. What can you learn about the value and support of the contributions of women in ministry?

2. What can you learn about fostering a spirit of hospitality?

3. Do you recognize the importance of diversity in the church?

4. Do you support and encourage fellow believers in ministry?

5. Are you mindful of the impact of your actions on others?