Romans 16 might seem like an unusual way to end such a powerful letter. At first glance, verses 1-16 look like just a long roster, and it is tempting to breeze through them without much thought. But as we look closer, we see that each name represents a life, a story, a person who played a role in Paul’s ministry and the spread of the gospel.
Names matter because people matter. Our God is a God who values each person, and Christianity is a faith centered on people — loving, encouraging, and discipling each other. Today, I want you to think about the people who have impacted your own walk with Christ. Who has helped shape your faith? Maybe it’s a mentor, a family member, or a friend who has been there to guide, encourage, and challenge you in your journey with God. Reflect on those names and their impact, and ask yourself, “Have I told them how much I appreciate them?”
That is exactly what Paul is doing here. He is taking the time to call out and commend those who labored alongside him in ministry. He acknowledges their faithfulness, their sacrifices, and their influence on his life and the church. Their names have been preserved in Scripture for thousands of years, reminding us that no one does ministry alone.
1. Be a People Person
Through verses 1-16, Paul shows us that he is a “people person,” someone who cares deeply about those around him. And as believers, we are called to be people who genuinely care for others, who are invested in the lives of those around us, and who are not afraid to show and express that care.
Being a “people person” isn’t always popular today. Many of us joke about how we “don’t like people,” or we say things like, “The older I get, the fewer people I like.” But as followers of Christ, we are not called to distance ourselves from people permanently. Yes, we all need moments of rest and solitude, even Jesus retreated at times to pray and recharge, but He always returned to the people. And we must do the same. While solitude and quiet time with God is essential, we are called to live our faith among others, building genuine, face-to-face connections that go far beyond social media interactions.
Christianity is fundamentally about relationships. God saved us to send us — to people. We are called to share the gospel, make disciples, and build each other up in the faith. That mission requires us to engage with others intentionally, to be present in their lives, to care for them, and to share our faith with them. Paul’s letter is an incredible example. He lists out names, not just as a formality, but because each person on that list meant something to him. Paul valued the men and women who worked alongside him in ministry, and he was not afraid to recognize and commend them publicly.
What is even more remarkable is that Paul begins by recognizing a woman — Phoebe. In a society that often dismissed women, Paul elevates them as significant partners in his ministry. Phoebe was not just a believer; she was a trusted servant, likely carrying the first copy of Romans to the church in Rome. Paul commends her, acknowledges her faithfulness, and asks the church to welcome her wholeheartedly. Paul’s inclusion of women like Phoebe and Priscilla (alongside her husband Aquila) underscores a powerful truth: in God’s kingdom, men and women are both invaluable in spreading the gospel. Each played an essential role in supporting Paul, shaping the church, and nurturing believers.
2. Don’t Do Ministry Alone
Why did Paul, after writing one of the most profound theological letters in the Bible, take time to acknowledge the men, women, and couples who worked alongside him? Because he knew that ministry is not meant to be done in isolation. Paul did not just talk about the importance of community; he lived it. He relied on the support, encouragement, and partnership of others to fulfill the mission that Christ commanded — to make disciples.
When Jesus gave the Great Commission in Matthew 28, telling His followers to “make disciples,” He did not intend for them to do it alone. That command was not just for the apostles, or the “super Christians” throughout history — it was for every believer, including you and me. And it is a command that requires community because disciple-making is impossible without people. We need each other, and the beautiful truth is that others need us, too.
If you want to experience the power of working together in ministry and building deep, meaningful relationships, get involved in disciple-making relationships where you can grow alongside others. Our church offers “D-Groups” — small discipleship groups where believers can read God’s Word, share life, and hold each other accountable. If you feel like a D-Group is not the right fit for this season, there are other ways to experience biblical community. Get involved in a Sunday school class or a small group that meets throughout the week. Surround yourself with a group of believers who will walk with you, support you, and pray for you. There is no such thing as “Lone Ranger” Christianity — our faith does not work like that. We are meant to do life and ministry together.
3. Words are Powerful… Use Them to Speak Life
One of the simplest yet most impactful things Paul did was to recognize and speak encouragement to those around him. When he saw faith in action, he did not just admire it from a distance—he told people they were doing well. Paul’s example teaches us that words are powerful. And as believers, we have the opportunity to use our words to speak life and encouragement to others.
Why do we so often hold back from telling people, “I appreciate you” or “You are doing a great job”? Pride, busyness, or even fear can keep us from sharing simple words of affirmation. But we know how impactful it can be to receive a heartfelt “thank you” or “I love you.” These words carry the power to lift someone up and make them feel seen and valued. In a world filled with negativity and criticism, we have the chance to counter that with life-giving words that reflect the love of Christ.
Paul did not hold back. He used his words to celebrate the faith of new believers who were sold out for Jesus, even though many of them came from pagan backgrounds. These first-generation Christians were on fire for their newfound faith, and Paul took the time to acknowledge them. Their names and stories have been recorded for thousands of years as a testament to their faith. Imagine how powerful it must have been for these young believers to know that Paul saw their faith, appreciated it, and shared it with others.
This type of encouragement should not be reserved for “special occasions” or left unsaid until it is too late. Do not wait until a loved one’s funeral to share how much they meant to you. Tell them now. Write it down, say it face-to-face, or make that phone call. There is something uniquely impactful about putting words of gratitude into writing. A written note or letter has a way of reaching the heart and lasting over time.
So here is the challenge: think of someone who has been an encouragement in your walk with Christ. If they are still alive, tell them. Whether you write, call, or speak to them directly, do not let the moment pass. Speak life into those who have poured into you, and let your words be a powerful source of blessing. You will never regret sharing your appreciation — and they will never forget it.
