Read: Romans 16:1-2; Galatians 3:28
I commend to you our sister Phoebe. (Rom. 16:1)
Francis of Assisi is often attributed as saying, “Preach the gospel—use words if necessary.” Phoebe, the first person in the long list of names of chapter 16, was not actually part of the Roman church directory. She carried Paul’s letter to the Roman church. She most likely was the reader of the letter and may have memorized it so that she could dramatically deliver it, addressing various groups in the Roman church. Paul may have coached her delivery so that it came alive for the congregation.
Phoebe was a picture of the gospel, with or without the words. Phoebe’s name means “Titaness,” signifying she was converted to Christ from a pagan background. She is “our sister” indicating that a new social reality had formed among the believers in Jesus that transcended Roman honor, power, privilege, and social connections. She was a “deaconess,” or perhaps a “deacon,” or maybe a wife of a deacon (see 1 Tim. 3:11). We aren’t sure of the offices of the first century church, but Paul entrusting Phoebe with this important letter indicates she was no slouch. She was from “Cenchreae” near Corinth where Paul most likely wrote the Roman letter. Paul noted she was a “patron of many” (Rom. 16:2), meaning she supported the ministry of Paul and other missionaries financially. She not only delivered the words of Romans, but her very presence embodied the gospel to the church.
Consider all the Phoebes in our congregations and families who preach the gospel—and use words if necessary.
As you pray, give thanks for all the “Phoebes” in the life of your family or congregation.
Kent Fry is a retired pastor and visiting research fellow at the Van Raalte Institute in Holland, Michigan. He and his wife, Joyce, are active members of Second Reformed Church in Zeeland, Michigan. Kent is an active cyclist, and he and Joyce enjoy time with their children and grandchildren.
