What does Romans 16:2 mean?

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

Explanation

Romans 16:2 is a commendation issued by the Apostle Paul concerning a woman named Phoebe, who was a member of the church at Cenchrea. In this verse, Paul is asking the Roman Christians to welcome Phoebe as would be appropriate for fellow believers (“saints”) and to assist her in any matter that she may require. Paul tells them that Phoebe has been a “succourer” or a “benefactor” to many, including himself, which means she has provided support, assistance, or patronage.

The literal understanding of this verse is that Phoebe, as a servant of the church and a supporter of many Christians, should be received with hospitality and assistance in her endeavors. The deeper meaning suggests the recognition and endorsement of women’s roles and contributions within the early Christian communities, as well as the importance of mutual support among believers.

Historical Context

Romans was written by Paul around 56-58 AD while he was in Corinth. This was a period shortly before his final visit to Jerusalem. The church at Rome, to which Paul was writing, consisted of both Gentile and Jewish Christians. Cenchrea was the eastern port of Corinth, and Phoebe was possibly tasked with delivering Paul’s letter to the Romans.

During this period, travel was challenging and often hazardous. Commendatory letters were common in the early church to introduce and vouch for individuals moving between Christian communities. The mention of Phoebe suggests that she held a position of responsibility and respect within her home church and was entrusted with significant tasks.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Romans 16:2 shows the early church’s practice of hospitality and the pivotal role of women in the Christian community. Phoebe is identified as a “succourer,” which in Greek is “prostatis,” a term that can imply leadership or patronage. This has led to diverse theological interpretations regarding the role of women in church leadership, with some seeing it as an endorsement of women in authoritative roles and others as indicating a more general form of service and support.

Additionally, the use of the term “saints” speaks to the Christian understanding of all believers being set apart for God’s service, not just a special few who are canonized for sainthood as in later Christian traditions.

Practical Applications

The practical application of Romans 16:2 in daily life can be seen in the emphasis on hospitality and support within the Christian community. Believers today can apply this teaching by actively welcoming and assisting fellow Christians, particularly those who are in positions to serve others or who are undertaking significant tasks for the community. It also reminds Christian communities to honor and support those who have been benefactors and leaders within the church.

Cross-References

• Acts 9:36 – “Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.”
• 1 Timothy 5:10 – “Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints’ feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.”
• Hebrews 13:2 – “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”
• 1 Peter 4:9 – “Use hospitality one to another without grudging.”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of Romans 16:2 are:

• “Receive her” (προσδέχομαι, prosdechomai): to accept or welcome.
• “In the Lord” (ἐν κυρίῳ, en kyrio): indicating the spiritual kinship and shared faith among believers.
• “As becometh saints” (ἁγίοις, hagiois): appropriate for people who are holy or set apart.
• “Succourer” (προστάτις, prostatis): a woman set over others, a patroness, or a protector.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the Greco-Roman culture, patron-client relationships were common, where a wealthier patron would provide support to clients in return for loyalty and services. Phoebe’s role as a “succourer” reflected a similar kind of support but within the framework of the Christian community.

Comparing this to other ancient myths and religious interpretations, the emphasis on helping and receiving others in a holy community is less common. Many ancient societies were more hierarchical and stratified, while the Christian ethic demonstrated in Romans 16:2 shows a more egalitarian and service-oriented approach.

Scientific Perspectives

While there isn’t a direct intersection with modern science in this verse, the principles of mutual aid and support among individuals it espouses are mirrored in various social sciences. Studies in sociology and psychology affirm the benefits of cohesive communities and the important role of inter-personal support in mental and emotional well-being.

Commentaries

Commentators have various perspectives on Romans 16:2:

• John Calvin speaks of Phoebe’s service to the church and Paul’s recommendation as a duty the Romans are obliged to meet with hospitality and help.
• Matthew Henry emphasizes the kindness and assistance Phoebe provided to many, including Paul, indicating the active participation of women in the ministry of the early church.
• The Expositor’s Greek Testament points out the Phoebe’s title “prostatis” could mean a patron of many, suggesting she had means and influence, and used it generously for the benefit of the church.