Lent 2025 Day 14

Phoebe, Early Church Leader
Romans 16:1-2 | 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

Phoebe is one of the few women in the New Testament who is named and commended for her leadership in the early church. In Romans 16:1-2, Paul describes her as a diakonos—a word often translated as "deacon" or "servant"—and as a benefactor of many, including Paul himself. Scholars believe that Phoebe was entrusted with delivering Paul’s letter to the Romans, an enormous responsibility in a time when written messages were rare and could be easily lost or misinterpreted. She would have had to explain the letter, answer questions, and possibly even defend Paul’s teachings to the Roman Christians. This suggests that she was not only a trusted messenger but also a teacher and interpreter of Paul’s words. As a leader in the church of Cenchreae, she likely played a significant role in teaching and supporting the faith community, ensuring that the message of Christ continued to spread.

Phoebe’s faithfulness mirrors the encouragement given in 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, which reminds us that God is faithful, even when we face trials. The early church faced significant persecution, and leaders like Phoebe had to navigate dangerous social and political landscapes. Carrying a letter from Paul—an imprisoned apostle whose teachings challenged the authority of Rome—would have been risky. Yet, she remained steadfast, trusting that God would provide her the strength to endure.

Women’s voices have often been overlooked in the history of the church, yet Phoebe’s inclusion in Paul’s letter is a testament to the essential role women played in the spread of the Gospel. She was more than a messenger; she was a leader, a patron, and a model of perseverance. The early church relied on women like Phoebe, Priscilla, Junia, and others to establish and sustain Christian communities. Despite cultural norms that often silenced women, the Gospel empowered them to preach, teach, and lead. Phoebe reminds us that faithfulness is not about status or recognition but about answering God’s call with courage.
 
Lent is a time to reflect on how we are called to serve, even when it is difficult. Phoebe reminds us that God equips those who are faithful, providing strength for every challenge. Whether in leadership, service, or unseen acts of love, we are called to carry the Gospel in our lives, trusting that God’s faithfulness will sustain us. Her story challenges us to uplift and recognize the leadership of women in our own communities, ensuring that their voices are not only included but celebrated.

Reflection:

• What does Phoebe’s leadership teach us about the role of women in the early church? 
• How do you see God’s faithfulness at work in your own life, especially in times of trial? 
• What responsibilities or callings has God placed on your heart this Lent? 
• How can you advocate for and support women in leadership within the church today? 

Breath Prayer: Inhale: God is faithful… Exhale: …I will trust and serve.

May this Lenten season remind us that faithfulness in small acts of service carries the Gospel forward in ways we may never fully see.
Amen.