Phoebe

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Phoebe, whose name means “bright and radiant,” was a faithful follower of Christ, a deacon, and a benefactor of the church at Cenchreae, a seaport village at the city of Corinth. 

Phoebe is introduced in Paul’s letter of instructions to the Roman church.(Romans 16:1-2) In his letter to the church, Paul instructs the believers to welcome Phoebe, “I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae.” The collective language “our sister” demonstrates the familial language of the church, reminding believers that they are all part of the same family, with the same Father. The term deacon, or diakonos in Greek, is a title that Paul consistently used for ministers who were given a sacred assignment, such as Paul himself, Timothy, Apollos, and even Christ. This was a role that carried great responsibility and leadership within churches.

Paul speaks highly of Phoebe to the church, asking the church to offer her help with whatever she needs.

Not only was Phoebe respected in her position in the church, but she was a benefactor of many people, including Paul.

The Greek word for benefactor is prostatis, which means a female guardian, protectress, patroness, caring for the affairs of others and aiding them with her resources. She provided generously for the needs of the church out of her own financial means.   

Phoebe is known to have delivered Paul's letter to the church in Rome. In Greek mythology, the name Phoebe was also used for the goddess Artemis, associated with the light of the moon. Despite this connection with Greek deity, Phoebe’s name remained unchanged.

Phoebe was a bright light for the sake of the gospel and a leader in the church, praised for her diligence and generosity.