Romans 16:1-16 (KJV)
I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church
which is at Cenchrea: [2] 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. [3] Greet
Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: [4] Who have for my life
laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also
all the churches of the Gentiles. [5] Likewise greet the church that is
in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits
of Achaia unto Christ. [6] Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.
[7] Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who
are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. [8]
Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord. [9] Salute Urbane, our helper in
Christ, and Stachys my beloved. [10] Salute Apelles approved in Christ.
Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household. [11] Salute Herodion
my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are
in the Lord. [12] Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord.
Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord. [13] Salute
Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. [14] Salute Asyncritus,
Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them.
[15] Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas,
and all the saints which are with them. [16] Salute one another with an
holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.
What we just read is an account of women who were actively involved in
the early church. In fact, they were so instrumental in the work of the
Lord that the apostle Paul both highly recommends and commends them. Because
there has always been controversy regarding women in ministry, it seems
that in view of one extreme, another is taken, and women that minister
in a truly scriptural manner are overlooked or disregarded altogether.
I appreciate godly leaders who take the time to acknowledge the assistance
that women bring to the service of the Lord, noting specifically how God
uses them to minister to the needs of the people. No doubt each lady mentioned
above, just like each one of us today, contributed a diversity of talents
to enriching and supporting the church. In order to be effective in ministry,
these women were first receptive to the very gospel that gave birth to
the great changes in their own lives. By their own testimonies they were
able to enhance the truth that was being preached.
On another note, it has been my disappointing experience that in Bible
believing camps there are few settings provided in which the wisdom of
faithful, godly women is utilized. I find it quite surprising that in
meetings packed with faithful preachers, their wives are seldom valued
for their scriptural knowledge or experience and shared among the attending
women. In fact, their level of participation is minimal at best. Can their
stewardship of the gospel not be trusted?? Activities for the children
are typically planned for such gatherings, yet women of various ages are
starving for occasions for female discipleship. Yes, the preaching helps,
but there is something about another woman opening the Word of God that
hits us in spots a man cannot know of! The church desperately needs the
influence of faithful, sober-minded Christian women, and whenever we have
the privilege of a respected man of God come through our church to preach,
we make it a point to tap into the heart of his wife and bid her speak
to our ladies. It has always enriched the life of our church, perfected
the saints, and been a fruitful practice.
What types of ministry do you promote, dear lady? What ministries do you
feel burdened about? What areas of service have you been involved in and
seen good results? As children of God, we all have natural capabilities
that can be used in a spiritual capacity. The question is, are you in
the habit of utilizing them for the edification of the church? How have
you grown in your understanding of your role in the body of Christ?
1 Cor. 12:4-7 (KJV)
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. [5] And there
are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. [6] And there are
diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in
all. [7] But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to
profit withal.
The Christlike attributes we possess as Christian women are not for ourselves
– they are to be employed for the glory of God! Your level of generosity
reveals your understanding of the Lord – have you been willing to give
yourself away for the profit of others?
As we briefly consider the names of the women included in our opening
text, Pheobe was referred to by Paul as “our sister”. She was noted for
her sisterly concerns and labor among the brethren. The Bible says she
was a succuorer of many; Phoebe stood by in case of need and brought relief
to anyone requiring help. She was a true example of consecrated womanhood.
Priscilla was always paired with her husband; they were never mentioned
apart. Here is a rare testimony in ministry today and a very wise woman!
Many Christian couples busy serving the Lord have allowed the church to
divide their marriages. Thank God for balanced examples like Aquila and
Priscilla who sacrificed greatly but never lost their home in the process!
Mary also bestowed much labor and Paul felt she deserved to be greeted
as well. How often we overlook our most faithful helpers who toil tirelessly
behind the scenes… While it was not mentioned what she did, we do know
Mary did what she could to lighten Paul’s load and this man of God was
appreciative. Gratitude toward Tryphena and Tryphosa was expressed as
well. Ccertainly this delicate duo teamed up to make a big difference
in the body of Christ! Persis, another model hard worker, had become precious
to Paul. Ladies, are you beginning to understand the value even your slightest
contribution adds to the work of the Lord? “Working women” – church workers
who never tired of lending a hand, surrounded Paul. Even the mother of
Rufus pitched in and did her part, extending motherly comfort and counsel
with her matronly presence. Women of all ages are needed in the Lord’s
Army! Last but not least, Julia and Nereus’ sister were included in Paul’s
closing thoughts. I can just imagine the motivation Paul’s meaningful
compliments afforded these committed women! Their heart’s cry still rings
loud and clear: “Make use of me, my God!”
Make use of me, my God!
Let me not be forgot;
A broken vessel cast aside,
One whom thou needest not.
All things do serve Thee here,
All creatures, great and small;
Make use of me, of me, my God –
The meanest of them all.
God Bless,
Pam
Isaiah 60:1&2
Copyright 2002 Pamela A. Iannello
Revised 2004
