In this final chapter Paul shows his concern for individual believers. He asks for help to be given to Phoebe (v1-2) ‘in a manner worthy of the saints’. As saints, a people set apart, the way we treat others must be above and beyond what non-Christians do. Remember this today in your dealings with others.

Paul shows his own love in this list of individual greetings (v3-15). Notice the different little encouraging remarks for people. This shows Paul’s great thoughtfulness towards others. This is amazing as Paul had never visited this church in Rome. They were though people constantly on his mind in prayer.

Out of concern, Paul encourages unity and warns about those who would cause division by leading people away from the truth (v16-20). Are you doing you can to promote God’s truth and unity in the truth within your church?

After a final greeting from those with Paul (v21-24), he ends with a benediction (a good word) (v25-27). All Paul seeks to do for and through these people is to glorify God (v27). Are you labouring for this prayerfully and practically in your church?