From my reading in Romans 16 in the One Year Bible New Testament.

Often in the letters of the New Testament I have  tendency to skim over the greetings at the end.  In this chapter Paul greets many people for different reasons. The things he says about the people can teach us how to be a person worthy of such honor.

1. Be Helpful To Many

“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. Welcome her in the Lord as one who is worthy of honor among God’s people. Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many, and especially to me.” Rom 16:1 

A helpful person will have many friends. When you help others you are also serving God. When you help a minister like Paul your helpfulness is multiplied because by helping him you are helping many others.

2. Sacrifice For Others & The Gospel

“Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus. In fact, they once risked their lives for me. I am thankful to them, and so are all the Gentile churches. Also give my greetings to the church that meets in their home.” Rom 16:3-5

Pricilla and Aquila risked their lives for Paul! Not only that, but they are willing to host a church in their home!  What sacrifice are you making to see the gospel advance?

3. Work hard for the benefit of others.

“Give my greetings to Mary, who has worked so hard for your benefit.” Rom 16:6

“Give my greetings to Tryphena and Tryphosa, the Lord’s workers, and to dear Persis, who has worked so hard for the Lord.” Rom 16:12

Hard work serving others and the Lord should be honored. When you work hard for God it is not in vain.

Ask yourself…

Have I been helpful to others, especially those serving in ministry?

Have I been making sacrifices for the gospel?

Have I been working hard for God and others?

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