I commend to you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: That you receive her in the Lord, as becomes saints, and that you assist her in whatever business she has need of you: for she has been a succorer of many, and of myself also. (Rom 16:1-2)
Phebe was known as a servant (the Greek word used here is often translated "deaconess") and a helper. She apparently was wealthy and helped support Paul's ministry. She was highly regarded in the church, and she may have delivered this letter from Corinth to Rome. This provides evidence that women had important roles in the early church. Cenchrea, the town where Phebe lived, was the eastern port of Corinth, six miles from the city center.
This verse sheds new light on the role of women in the Church of Christ. For quite some time, I've been under the impression that the role of women in Christ's church was to sit quietly, instruct children and other women and pretty much, take a back seat. Additionally, the 1 Corinthians 14:34-35, (Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted to them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also said the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.) is not an order for women to refrain from and ignore their gifts from the Holy Spirit. It does not mean that women should not speak in church service. It is clear that women prayed and prophesied in public worship. It is also clear that women are given spiritual gifts and are encouraged to exercise them in the body of Christ. Women have much to contribute and can and should participate! The purpose of Paul's words was to promote unity, not to teach about women's roles in the church.
We, today, have many spiritually gifted women who write and preach the word of God. They are servants, just as the men are, spreading the Gospel of Christ. If God's word is shared, if people come to know the Lord and Savior through their words, how can that be "wrong"? Go where God sends you, teach what has been taught to you, preach the word of God! Offer the same salvation to others that has been offered to you!
