Romans 16:7

"Greet Mary, who labored much for us."

Key Reflection

In Romans 16:7, Paul greets Mary, acknowledging her significant contributions to the early Christian community. This verse highlights the role of women in ministry and service within the fledgling church, emphasizing that their labor was both valued and essential. The term "labor much" (κοπιάσασα) conveys not just hard work but also devoted effort, suggesting Mary's active involvement and dedication to the community’s needs and growth.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 7. My kinsmen. In Ro 9:3, the apostle calls all the Jews his kinsmen, and it has been doubted whether he means anything more here than that they were fellow-Jews. But as many others who were Jews are mentioned here without this appellation, and as he especially designates these persons, and Herodian, (Ro 16:11,) it seems probable that they were remote relatives of the apostle. My fellow prisoners. Paul was often in prison; and it is probable that on some of those occasions they had been confined with him. Comp. 2 Co 11:23, "In prisons more frequent." Who are of note.

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