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Phoebe: A Servant Of The Church

Text: Romans 16 
26 March 2006

(I) The Place Of Women In The First Century Church

1. Women were included in ministry

2. Women took up leadership roles in the church

3. Women can contribute significantly to the Lord’s work

(II) Paul’s Personal Regard Towards Phoebe

1. Wonderful Sense Of Identification With Phoebe

“I commend to you Phoebe…” (Romans 16:1)

2. A Sister

“I commend to you Phoebe our sister…” (Romans 16:1)

3. A Deaconess

“Who is a servant of the church…” (Romans 16:1)

4. A Helper

“She has been a helper of many and of myself also.” (Romans 16:2)

(III) Paul’s Instruction To The Church How To Regard Her

1. Personal Regard

a) With a great sense of hospitality and welcome

“That you may receive her in the Lord…” (Romans 16:2)

b) With a great sense of honor and respect

“Receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints…” (Romans 16:2)

2. Practical Regard

a) With regards to the Lord’s work

b) With a great sense of support and assistance

“And assist her in whatever business she has need of you…” (Romans 16:2)

(IV) Challenges

1. To emulate the example of Phoebe

2. To give support and assistance towards leaders of the church

3. To have a sense of regard and respect towards others who have helped you