There are some who say that Paul had no respect for women.  That they were just good to serve the men.  But that’s far from the truth.  Look how many women that are co-workers of his and that he sends special greetings to in this text.

1. Phoebe (v.1–2) — A deacon (servant) of the church in Cenchreae and a helper of many, including Paul.

2. Priscilla (v.3–5) — Wife of Aquila; known for hosting a church in their home and for teaching Apollos (Acts 18).

3. Mary (v.6) — Commended for her hard work for the believers.

4. Junia (v.7) — Mentioned along with Andronicus; “outstanding among the apostles” and imprisoned for the faith.

5. Tryphaena (v.12) — A woman who works hard in the Lord.

6. Tryphosa (v.12) — Possibly her sister; also recognized for her work in the Lord.

7. Persis (v.12) — Another woman who worked hard in the Lord.

8. The mother of Rufus (v.13) — Praised as a mother to Paul as well.

9. Julia (v.15) — Listed among the saints Paul greets.

10. Nereus’s sister (v.15) as a 10th woman, though she is unnamed.

The fact that he cared for them is notable.  But even beyond that, these are women “who worked hard in the Lord.”  They weren’t sidelined, second best, or leftovers just to serve the men.  They had a significant place in the kingdom.

The challenge is this.  Could you be on this list?  Man or woman?  As one who worked hard in the Lord?