Fellowship in the gospel

(Rom. 16:1-16)

Introduction: Last Sunday’s sermon title was ‘Plan for evangelism’ based on Rom. 15:22-33. Paul planned to visit Rome several times but could not go. But, when he continued wishing to visit Rome and planned again, God let him visit Rome not in the way Paul wanted but as God wanted. Paul also took some money to the Jerusalem church. The money was collected from the Gentile churches. Since the Gentiles received the gospel from the Jews, it is natural that the Gentile churches helped the Jerusalem church with their money. Paul asked the Roman believers to pray for his service to the Jerusalem church and his plan for evangelism. We should pray for those who preach the gospel. Today’s passage is Rom. 16:1-16. First, Paul recommends Sister Phoebe who carries this letter to the Roman church and sends his best regards to those who know Paul in the Roman church. As you can see, it is joy to know other brothers and sisters in Christ. I hope the same thing happens in our church.

1) Recommending Phoebe (1-2): Sister Phoebe was serving the church in Cenchrea. Cenchrea is located close to the City of Corinth. If we read Acts 18:18, we can see that Paul had his hair cut there in order to fulfill his promise to God as a chosen person. Phoebe was a faithful helper for many preachers including Paul. So, Paul is recommending her to the Roman church. Paul is asking the Roman believers to help Phoebe in the Lord in a way worthy of saints. God calls many people for the evangelism, some as preachers and some as helpers. If you do not feel that God has called you as a preacher, it is good to become a helper for those who preach. Together, we expand the kingdom of God.

2) Paul’s co-workers (3-16): As we can see from this paragraph, there are many co-workers of Paul in Rome for preaching the gospel. Some people like Priscilla and Aquila (3-5) are willing to die for Paul. They are the Jewish couple who explained the gospel to Apollos we can see in Acts 18:24-26. They are serving their home church in their house in Rome. Urbanus and Stachys (9) are Roman slaves who are serving the church. Narcissus (11) is probably a nobleman with a large family. He and his family believe in the Lord. In the Roman church, there are people from different races and backgrounds. However, they all serve the Lord and each other. There could be some conflicts and divisions, but eventually they are all brothers and sisters in Christ. That is what the church is all about. Although we are different in thinking, education, and family background, we are one in Christ. That is why the fellowship in the gospel is beautiful and joyful. I hope you enjoy the fellowship in Christ through this church.
Thank you and God bless you.