WEDNESDAY November 18, 2020
Christian Teamwork
I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also.
Romans 16:1-2
Paul began Romans 16 with a request. He asked the believers in Rome to accept Phoebe, and that she would be well received by them. Honestly, some men can be intimidated and even jealous of women in ministry. Yet sometimes women can be more effective than men. The Word of God gives clarity to the role of women in the church. There are standards for both men and women.
There are many places where women can serve in ministry. Some are gifted Sunday school teachers; others help with administration or they can become missionaries. However, the Bible teaches that women cannot be as a pastor—teaching the congregation (1 Timothy 2:12-14). Women are not to usurp authority over a man. Yet a woman may have to take the place of authority, but only when there are no men to take on this leadership role.
Paul’s list of co-workers shows us how the believers were united in heart. No doubt many of these people were Paul’s own converts. In assisting them to develop in Christ, he caused them to become effective in what God had called them to do. With the love of God, those whom Paul mentioned could reach the huge city of Rome with the Gospel.
Unity among believers is very important. If there is dissention, people will get into petty arguments, and this will make friction. Those who cause disunity are joining forces with the devil to destroy the work of God or make it ineffective. It is really important to be able to see how God brings people together. God trains and disciples believers so they fit together like a puzzle. When working together in unity, they can accomplish a great deal in the Kingdom of God.
We cannot expect the world to believe that the Father sent the Son, that Jesus’ claims are true and that Christianity is true, unless the world sees some reality of the oneness of true Christians.
~Francis Schaeffer~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!