Devotion #4: No Lone Rangers Allowed

“Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but all the churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well.” Romans 16:3-4 

As the book of Romans closes, we see a list of names. I guess I should expect this since it is a letter sent to friends. There would be a number of people one would want to acknowledge. However, it can catch us off guard. 

Paul is known as the ultimate missionary. He travels without any personal agenda. He immediately finds opportunities to share the Gospel. Even though he faces multiple distractions and even persecution, he presses forward for the Lord. Yet, in all of this, he is not alone. He is presented as the main character who points others to Jesus, but he is not alone. 

In Romans chapter 16, Paul lists some 37 associates who are with him or have served with him in the past. A more thorough study shows that Paul had about 120 fellow servants of the Lord. He was not alone. 

In Romans 16:4, Paul uses a simple phrase concerning Prisca and Aquila. He says, “I give thanks.” Paul realizes he cannot and should not try to do ministry alone. He needs others, and others need him. 

I appreciate that Paul feels the thankfulness and expresses it. That is a great lesson in itself. However, I want us to realize that we are all needed. I think Henry Ford explains it well, “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” It reminds me of our mission statement. We start by gathering together as believers, which is designed to point us to Growth Communities. From there, we team up and serve together. Ford used the word “together” three times in a simple statement because that needs to be the focus.  

Professional basketball coach Phil Jackson said it this way, “The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.” This may sound bland until you realize that Jackson coached Michael Jordan. He did not just tell the team to get the ball to Michael and sit back and watch. Every player was important and had a role to fill. 

In the missionary world, Paul would be considered a Michael Jordan. Like Michael, he had an effective team where each member filled an important role. 

What is your role in the church? Please remember, you are needed and appreciated. Thank you!