Paul concludes his letter to the Romans with greetings, a final
warning, and a doxology of praise to God.
Notable women of Romans 16
Paul recognized the importance of women in the Lord’s work.
Phoebe, whose name meant “radiant,” had offered hospitality to
many, including Paul (Romans 16:1-2). She lived near Corinth,
and likely carried Paul’s letter to Rome.
A woman named Mary had worked hard for the Roman Christians
(Romans 16:6). Junia, who was well known to the apostles, had
been imprisoned for Christ (Romans 16:7). Tryphaena and
Tryphosa, whose names meant “delicate” and “dainty,” worked
hard, as did Persis (Romans 16:12).
The mother of Rufus had proved a mother to Paul (Romans 16:13).
This may be the same Rufus mentioned in Mark 15:21, the son of
Simon the Cyrene who carried the Lord’s cross.
Romans 16 Outline
16:1-16
Personal greetings
16:1-2
Commendation of Pheobe
16:3-16
Greetings to Christian friends
16:17-20
Avoid divisive people
16:21-23
Greetings from Paul’s companions
16:24-27
Praise to God, our source of strength.
Priscilla and Acquila
This Christian couple worked with Paul to spread the gospel.
They fled Rome when Claudius expelled the Jews. They befriended
Paul in Corinth and offered him lodging. Like Paul, they were
tentmakers (Acts 18:1-3).
Priscilla and Acquila set sail with Paul to Syria, and stayed in
Ephesus (Acts 18:18-19). There they explained the way of God to
Apollos “more accurately” (Acts 18:26).
Known for their hospitality, this family hosted a church at
their home in Ephesus (1st Corinthians 16:19). Eventually they
returned to Rome where they also entertained a church in their
home (Romans 16:5).
Paul commended “Prisca and Acquila” for endangering their lives
to save his (Romans 16:3).