Romans 16 2

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.

Romans 16:2 nkjv

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.

Romans 16:2 niv

I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me.

Romans 16:2 esv

that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well.

Romans 16:2 nlt

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 verses

Romans 16 2 Meaning

This verse identifies Phoebe as a deaconess and a benefactor to many, including Paul. It highlights her importance and encourages the Roman believers to receive her warmly and assist her in any way she needs.

Romans 16 2 Context

This verse is part of the extended concluding greetings in Romans chapter 16. Paul, writing from Corinth, is sending his final exhortations and personal salutations to the church in Rome. He has never visited them personally before, making these introductions and commendations particularly important. Chapter 16 serves to reinforce the unity and interdependence within the body of Christ, highlighting the diverse roles and contributions of various individuals, both men and women, in the furtherance of the gospel. Phoebe's introduction here establishes her as a respected member of the church and a valuable ally to Paul's ministry.

Romans 16 2 Word Analysis

• συνίστημι (synistemi): To commend, recommend, present. It implies a formal endorsement and vouching for someone's character and service. This verb signifies presenting someone in a way that earns them respect and acceptance.
• αδελφην (adelphēn): Sister. Refers to a fellow believer, emphasizing their spiritual relationship in Christ. This term highlights equality and familial bond within the Christian community, transcending social distinctions.
• διακονον (diakono): Deaconess, servant. This term indicates a specific office or function within the church, one of service and ministry. It points to Phoebe's active involvement in the practical needs of the church.
• Κενχρεαις (Kenchrais): Cenchreae. This is a port town of Corinth on the eastern side of the Isthmus of Corinth. Its mention locates Phoebe and situates her ministry geographically within a significant Hellenistic city known for its trade and diverse population.
• ε sécurμεν (echouse): Having, holding. Implies possession or being characterized by. It suggests that her capacity as a helper was an intrinsic quality.
• και πολλους (kai pollous): And many. Emphasizes the widespread impact of her generosity and service.
• ω φειλομεν (ō opheilomen): To whom we owe, for whom we are obligated. This expresses a deep sense of debt and gratitude for the support she provided, particularly to Paul and perhaps to others.
• προσανινο (pros-anizein): To assist, to help, to contribute to. This verb denotes providing necessary aid, often material or logistical support, that enables someone's work to continue. It implies partnership in service.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "I commend to you our sister Phoebe": Paul's personal endorsement of Phoebe. The use of "our sister" signifies her status as a fellow believer.
• "a deaconess of the church in Cenchreae": This identifies her specific role and location. "Deaconess" implies she held a recognized position of service within the church.
• "that you may receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints": This is an appeal for respectful and honorable reception based on her standing in Christ. "Worthy of the saints" elevates her reception to a divine standard.
• "and that you may assist her in whatever she may need from you": This is a specific request for practical help, recognizing her needs as she engages in ministry or travels. It demonstrates mutual dependence within the body of Christ.

Romans 16 2 Bonus Section

Phoebe's mention is unique because Paul gives her a specific commendation and describes her in terms of both a "deaconess" (διακονον) and a "benefactor/helper" (ροστάτις – prostatis, often translated as helper or patron, but implying leadership and support). This dual role suggests a woman of both practical service and financial or social influence, actively contributing to the Christian mission. Her journey to Rome, implied by Paul's instruction to the Roman church, suggests she may have had business or ministry reasons to travel, and Paul wanted her to be well-received and supported on her mission. The fact that Paul explicitly asked the Roman church to assist her "in whatever she may need" signifies her own needs were perhaps substantial, underscoring her commitment and the significant support she herself required or offered.

Romans 16 2 Commentary

Paul's commendation of Phoebe is a powerful testament to the significant role women played in the early church. As a deaconess in Cenchreae, she was clearly involved in the active ministry of the church. Her generosity ("benefactor to many") suggests she used her resources to support the work of God and His servants, including Paul himself, to whom she was a significant source of assistance ("for whom we are obligated"). Paul's strong endorsement underscores the importance of recognizing and supporting those who labor in the gospel, both spiritually and materially. He urges the Roman believers to extend to her a welcome and support that reflects her own Christ-like character and service. This interaction highlights the interconnectedness of the church, where members support and are supported by one another for the advancement of God's kingdom.