READ: Rom. 16:1–16
Phoebe is mentioned as a sister in the Lord, a servant in another congregation near Corinth. The office of deaconess is not meant here. Was she someone who offered hospitality to travelers or cared for the sick? She receives a recommendation, a kind of attestation, to receive her in a worthy manner and to assist her, as one who herself has also helped others in church work.
Various people deserve greeting in the letter to the Romans. Such a greeting gives recognition as fellow brother or sister, who thus know themselves appreciated and supported by Paul, and thereby must also be received in Rome. They are especially fellow workers in the founding and edification of the congregation at Rome. Paul thereby also indicates: Rome needs them.
Prisca and Aquila were Jews. They are mentioned elsewhere in Scripture. They were fellow workers of Paul in Christ Jesus in several congregations and were involved in his work of bringing the gospel. They stayed with him in Corinth and Ephesus and are now active in Rome. They even risked their lives. All the churches express their gratitude to them. There are also fellow prisoners whom he knows from imprisonment (v. 7).
Many more names of brothers and sisters residing in Rome follow, who earlier worked together with Paul. In verses 10 and 11 names are also mentioned of members belonging to a house church.
The holy kiss expresses the bond of fellowship of the congregation; it was also used in worship, somewhat comparable to the handshake with the minister (cf. 1 Cor. 16:20; 1 Thess. 5:26; 1 Pet. 5:14).
What is your personal contribution to the fellowship of the church?
Singing: Ps. 65:1