Female Disciples in the New Testament V

Female Disciples in the New Testament, cont.

The New Testament mentions other devoted women. Priscilla and her husband, Aquila, risked their lives for the Apostles and provided their home for Church gatherings (Romans 16:3–5). Paul wrote, “Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the

Lord, with the church that is in their house (1 Corinthians 16:19).”

A woman named Mary “bestowed much labour” for the Apostles (Romans 16:6). A woman named Lydia was baptized along with her household and then ministered to those who had taught her (Acts 16:14-15). A woman named Phebe apparently held an ecclesiastical position of service in her congregation. Paul said, “I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church . . . that ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many (Romans 16:1-2).” The kind of service rendered by Phebe and other great women of the New Testament continues today with members of the Relief Society—leaders, visiting teachers, mothers, and others—who act as succorers, or helpers, of many.

I feel great gratitude that the examples of these women are part of scripture. I am also grateful for the amazing examples of the women I know, who live around me, who serve so faithfully. I think of Gwen who would perform daily – multiple daily – acts of (usually anonymous) service throughout our ward…dropping off food, or a little book, or just ‘popping in’ to help with the dishes, dropping off a card with an expression of thanks and hope, etc.; or Ann, who is out and about serving in the community. Wife’s, mothers, sisters, friends, teachers…so many blessings! I am indeed in ‘good’ company!