God's Extraordinary Purposes Through Ordinary People

Today’s focus is on the profound truth that God delights in using ordinary, common people to accomplish His extraordinary purposes. As we look at the closing chapter of Romans, we encounter a long list of names—names that might seem insignificant at first glance, but each one represents a life that made a difference for Christ. These were not super-apostles or renowned theologians, but everyday men and women who simply made themselves available to God. Their stories remind us that the Kingdom of God is built not just by those in the spotlight, but by countless faithful servants whose names may never be widely known, but are precious to God.

Phoebe, for example, is highlighted as a servant of the church—a woman who, though only mentioned here, played a vital role in delivering Paul’s letter to the Romans. Her service was not about holding a title, but about meeting needs and being available. Paul commends her, not for her status, but for her faithfulness and willingness to serve. Similarly, Priscilla and Aquila are remembered not just for their hospitality, but for their courage and commitment to discipleship, even risking their lives for Paul and planting a church in their home. These examples show that the work of God is advanced by those who are willing to do the small things, to serve without recognition, and to invest in others.

The passage also underscores the value and necessity of both men and women in ministry. Paul’s greetings include several women who labored much for the Lord, affirming that everyone—regardless of gender, age, or background—has a place and purpose in God’s plan. The call is not to be extraordinary, but to be available and obedient. Whether our labor is seen or unseen, whether we “labor” or “labor much,” what matters is that we are doing what God has called us to do, for His glory.

Hospitality, encouragement, and genuine love for one another are also emphasized. The “holy kiss” Paul mentions is a cultural expression of welcome and unity, reminding us to be a church that is warm, welcoming, and affirming of each other’s value. Ultimately, the challenge is simple but searching: What are you willing to do for Christ? God is not looking for ability, but availability. No matter your stage of life or perceived limitations, God has a purpose for you. The question is not whether you are qualified, but whether you are willing.

Key Takeaways

• 1. God Uses Ordinary People The list of names in Romans 16 is a testament to the fact that God’s work is accomplished through ordinary, everyday people. These individuals were not famous or particularly gifted by worldly standards, but they were available and faithful. God delights in using those who simply say, “Here am I, send me,” regardless of their background or abilities. [46:20]
• 2. Service Without Recognition is Precious to God Phoebe’s example shows that serving the church does not require a formal title or public recognition. Her ministry was vital, yet she is only mentioned once in Scripture. True greatness in God’s eyes is found in humble, consistent service—doing what needs to be done, even if no one else notices. [54:30]
• 3. Both Men and Women Have Essential Roles in Ministry Paul’s greetings include several women who “labored much” for the Lord, affirming the indispensable role of women in the life and mission of the church. While roles may differ, the value and necessity of each person’s contribution is clear. God’s design is for all His people to serve according to their gifts and opportunities. [57:48]
• 4. Discipleship Multiplies the Mission The story of Priscilla and Aquila demonstrates the power of investing in others. Their willingness to disciple Apollos and to open their home for a church in Rome shows that discipleship is not just about knowledge, but about multiplying the mission of Christ through relationships and hospitality. [64:12]
• 5. Hospitality and Unity Reflect Christ’s Love Paul’s instruction to “greet one another with a holy kiss” is a call to genuine hospitality and unity within the body of Christ. Our love for one another should be tangible and welcoming, breaking down barriers and affirming the worth of every member. This kind of community is a powerful witness to the world. [69:56]

Youtube Chapters

• [00:00] - Welcome
• [00:45] - Announcements and Upcoming Events
• [05:30] - Food Pantry Car Show Details
• [08:10] - Ministry Classes and Opportunities
• [10:40] - Children’s Ministry Outreach
• [14:51] - Homecoming and Fall Festival Preview
• [17:30] - Prayer and Worship Introduction
• [20:00] - Introduction to Romans 16
• [42:53] - The Significance of Ordinary People
• [46:20] - God Uses Common People
• [51:46] - Phoebe: Servant and Example
• [54:30] - The Role of Service in the Church
• [57:48] - The Value of Women in Ministry
• [64:12] - Priscilla and Aquila: Discipleship and Church Planting
• [67:30] - Hospitality and the Holy Kiss
• [69:56] - The Call to Labor for Christ
• [80:04] - Closing Prayer and Invitation

Bible Reading

Romans 16:1-16 (ESV) — > I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well. Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but all the churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well. Greet also the church in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in Asia. Greet Mary, who has worked hard for you. Greet Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen and my fellow prisoners. They are well known to the apostles, and they were in Christ before me. Greet Ampliatus, my beloved in the Lord. Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my beloved Stachys. Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ. Greet those who belong to the family of Aristobulus. Greet my kinsman Herodion. Greet those in the Lord who belong to the family of Narcissus. Greet those workers in the Lord, Tryphaena and Tryphosa. Greet the beloved Persis, who has worked hard in the Lord. Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; also his mother, who has been a mother to me as well. Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brothers who are with them. Greet Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you.

- Matthew 5:16 (ESV)
> In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

- James 1:22 (ESV)
> But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

Observation Questions

1. What kinds of people are listed in Romans 16:1-16? Are they famous leaders, or do they seem like everyday people? ([46:20])
2. What specific roles or actions are mentioned about Phoebe, Priscilla, and Aquila in these verses? ([51:46])
3. According to the passage, what is the significance of the “church in their house” mentioned in verse 5? ([01:04:12])
4. What does Paul mean when he tells the church to “greet one another with a holy kiss”? ([01:07:30])

Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think Paul takes the time to mention so many names in Romans 16? What does this say about how God values people who serve behind the scenes? ([46:20])
2. How does Phoebe’s example challenge our ideas about what it means to serve in the church? What does it mean to serve “without formality”? ([54:30])
3. What does the story of Priscilla and Aquila teach us about the importance of discipleship and hospitality in advancing God’s mission? ([01:04:12])
4. Why do you think Paul emphasizes both men and women as essential in ministry? How does this shape our understanding of everyone’s role in the church? ([57:48])

Application Questions

1. The sermon said, “God is not looking for ability, but availability.” What is one area in your life where you feel unqualified, but sense God might want to use you anyway? What would it look like to say “Here am I, send me” this week? ([46:20])
2. Phoebe served the church without a title or public recognition. Is there a “small” or unseen way you could serve someone in the church or your community this week? What holds you back from doing unnoticed acts of service? ([54:30])
3. Priscilla and Aquila opened their home and invested in others. Is there someone you could invite into your home or life for encouragement or discipleship? What practical step could you take to make your home or life more open to others? ([01:04:12])
4. Paul mentions both those who “labored” and those who “labored much.” Are you currently laboring for Christ in any way? If not, what is one thing you could start doing, no matter how small? ([01:11:05])
5. The “holy kiss” was a sign of genuine welcome and unity. How can you help make our church or group a warmer, more welcoming place? Is there someone you need to reach out to or include this week? ([01:07:30])
6. The sermon challenged us to stop making excuses and ask, “What can I do?” What is one excuse you often make for not serving? How could you take a step to move past that excuse this month? ([01:11:05])
7. Both men and women are highlighted as valuable in ministry. Are there gifts or talents you have been holding back because you think they aren’t needed or important? How can you use them for God’s glory? ([57:48])