nine crucial women

Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; also his mother, who has been a mother to me as well.

Romans 16:13

For those who erroneously teach that Paul was disrespectful and down putting to women, I offer Romans 16 as evidence of their own prejudicial agenda. Of the more than twenty-five people mentioned in the closing chapter of the book of Romans, more than one third of them are women! The most prominent and the very first person mentioned was Phoebe — the apostolic envoy and patron of Paul’s missionary work who probably carried the epistle with her to deliver to the church personally from Paul’s hand, to hers, to them (Romans 16:1-2). Who then are the other notable, commended, and prominent women Paul encourages in their service to the Kingdom?

• Prisca/Priscilla (Romans 16:3). The tent-making fellow laborer with Paul alongside her husband Aquila (see Acts 18, 1 Corinthians 16:19; 2 Timothy 4:19). She is evidently in Rome, perhaps forerunning Paul’s impending visit as an advance team member.
• Mary (Romans 16:6). She is commended for hard work in the Roman church community.
• Junia (Romans 16:7). She appears to have endured imprisonment as a church leader.
• Tryphaena (Romans 16:12). She is called a worker in the Lord.
• Persis (Romans 16:12). She is called beloved and also a hard worker.
• The mother of Rufus (Romans 16:13). Though unnamed, Paul considers and respects her like his own mother.
• Julia (Romans 16:15). Although no other detail is shared about her, she is singled out for respect simply by being recognized by name by Paul.
• The sister of Nereus (Romans 16:15). Again, though not named, Paul still considers her worth calling attention to for her role in the Roman church. Her church would have known why she was being honored in this way.

The church needs women to serve the Body of Christ, support the work of ministry, and advance the gospel with their abilities. They serve in vital, commendable roles. They bring unique talents, perspectives, and gifts in service to their Lord and King! And churches that refuse to enlist sisters in their rightful service alongside men are being disrespectful to God’s wonderful design and are hurting the advance of the gospel. Lest you think this post is egalitarian and supportive of female ordination, I would say that clearly in scripture there are unique roles (elders/pastors/overseers) for only male leadership in the church, but not at all at the expense or ridicule of women… EVER! Thank God we all are equipped and placed into Christ’s service!