Was the Apostle Paul a “Lone Wolf” in Ministry? Are You? 

We’re all known for something in the circles we run in—the one who’s always late, the stylish one, the adventure-seeker. The Apostle Paul is likewise known as a unique character in the early Church. In fact, he’s known for many things: his conversion, his zeal, his direct (and sometimes blunt!) words and writings.  

Some of Paul’s attributes can make it easy to picture him as a lone wolf in ministry. It may be hard for us to imagine getting along with someone who says some of the things that he does. (Case in point, Galatians 2 where Paul “opposes Peter to his face.”) 

However, many of Paul’s writings actually highlight the diversity and vastness of his ministry community. In addition to his other attributes, Paul should also be known as a guy with some really tight bonds of friendship and ministry relationships.  

Romans 16:1-15 is one such passage. After discussing some weighty theological and practical matters in earlier chapters, Paul closes his letter to Rome in a deeply personal and relational manner that reveals much about his ecclesiology (beliefs about the Church) and leadership practices. Here are verses 1-7 of chapter 16 with emphasis added: 

I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae.  I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me. Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in Christ Jesus.  They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them. Greet also the church that meets at their house. Greet my dear friend Epenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in the province of Asia. Greet Mary, who worked very hard for you. Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews who have been in prison with me. They are outstanding among the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was. 

Continue reading verses 8-15 for yourself and note how many more names and close relationships Paul mentions. 

Spoiler alert: In total, Paul names and/or personally addresses nearly thirty people in that community – men and women that he considers friends and co-laborers. Some of these people, at great risk to themselves, supported and assisted him (vv. 3-5).  

But what about you? Reflect on these questions as you consider your own approach to ministry:  

What is your level of commitment to others in ministry? Are you a Priscilla, Aquila, Mary, or someone else mentioned positively? 

How can you foster this kind of community in your ministry setting? How might you become known as someone with tight ministry bonds like Paul? 

It’s also worthy of note that Romans 16 includes names that are Greek, Roman, names of slaves, Jews, and one Persian. In addition, 18 men and nine women are named. This passage truly paints a picture of Galatians 3:28 where Paul also writes, “there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave or free, male or female, for all are one in Christ Jesus.”   

What stands out to you about the missional relationships represented in Romans 16?  

Does your own community of believers look this robust and diverse? What might you be missing out on if you’re acting as more of a solo artist rather than as a member of an ensemble? 

TEAM is committed to harmony in missional relationships around the world.  We take seriously Paul’s example of humility in Philippians 2, to “consider others better than yourself.”   

How might Jesus be asking you to consider becoming less so Jesus can do more through your life?