Romans 16

These final verses of Romans can read a bit like an old telephone directory. They appear a bit dry but form an important conclusion to Paul's greatest but of theological writing.

The 2 groups of people Paul talked about here are one group from the church in Corinth where he was, and the church in Rome who he was writing to. There is actually a third group, who Paul wanted them to not have anything to do with... More on that later.

Gospel Partners

Paul rejoiced in 26 people here who are leaders and partners in the gospel. These people are a huge mix - there are high-powered civil servants and right down to slaves. There are Christian believers meeting in some of the most highly renowned houses in Roman society but those churches also reached the margins too.

This tells us that Paul was a team player. He built diverse teams and invested in people, training them to bear the responsibility of Christian mission. Like him, we need to recruit people from all levels who care about sharing the gospel. We must be ready to invest in others, no matter who they are and if they might do things differently.

Of all 26 names mentioned, 9 were women. That's huge in that culture. These women were playing important roles in the 2 churches. Phoebe is an example of this. This is a benefactor of Paul and a Deacon within the church, she holds a position of leadership. There was also Priscilla who was a church pioneer. A church planter who was extremely important to these new churches. Thirdly was Junia who Paul thought of as an astounding representative of the church - an apostle. It is clear that woman always have had a vitally important role in the growth and mission of the church.

Gospel Unity

Paul's expression in verse 16 is so important. This is the perfect expression of the unity in the church, despite it's diversity. Imagine masters and slaves embracing each other! Such is the power of the gospel.

Gospel Enemies

Paul also warns about enemies who are deceiving the church and leading them away from the gospel and God's Word. He warns them to watch out and to combat them by knowing the Word and the gospel so well so that their misdirections can be identified. Those people are self-serving and are agents of the enemy. The good news is that Christ has already won against the enemy.

Glory of God

Paul closes the letter with a clear message - all this is for the glory of God. Everything a Christian does, and everything the church does should be for the glory of God, and the spreading of His Kingdom.