<p><b>Summary</b>:</p><p>Paul commends Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea, and asks the believers in Rome to receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, to assist her in whatever matter she may need, for she has been a helper to many, including Paul himself.</p><p> </p><p><b>Teaching</b>:</p><p>Phoebe is a special minister. Although she was a woman, she was appointed as a minister. At that time, it was extremely rare for a woman to be established as a church minister. Regardless of title, it is clear that Phoebe was a servant of the church, and as a minister, it can be understood that she also taught the Word.</p><p> </p><p>Today’s passage provides significant support for the role of female ministers in the church. Among many coworkers, sending Phoebe to Rome was a major decision.</p><p> </p><p>“and that you help her in whatever matter she may have need of you.”</p><p> </p><p>A preacher can preach because he or she is an example of faith. And the other holy people of God must support that preacher. In today’s church, when someone who is not a pastor preaches, especially if that person also has a secular job, the congregation should cooperate—not necessarily with money, but in other ways as well.</p><p>Both preachers and teachers should be received with proper respect and assisted, for this is the true form of the body of Christ, the church.</p><p> </p><p><i>Excerpt from the sermon by Pastor Lee, Sep 4, 2025</i></p><p><i><span data-ke-size="size18">Roman 16:1-2</span></i></p>
<!-- -->
