WIVES – WOMEN. 1st Timothy 3:11. Women like Phoebe, who was “a servant of the church” at Cenchrea, do what they can to meet the needs of believers and those who dedicate their time to preaching the Gospel and teaching God's word. Recognizing that they serve the people of God, not necessarily in a formal role like male deacons, we all owe respect and help to the sister in Christ in an assembly. They are not public speakers for the assembly, but they are godly women serving in the capacity God has given them.
Her compassion is clear, and her understanding of the needs she must fulfill is obvious without needing direction from the leaders of the saints. Her awareness of her surroundings and other people’s needs drives her to act for the Lord’s sake. No one would see her as someone who is here today and gone tomorrow. She doesn’t waste time finding faults to criticize in others. She has a more important mission that God has made clear to her. The Holy Spirit reminds her to find ways to meet the needs of sisters and brothers in Christ.
She has been trusted and continues to be trusted in her work. The evidence is clear; her work speaks for itself, and others come to her because she is approachable. There is a balanced approach in her service to God. Her service is not a separate role designated for women only. This reflects common sense in a woman whom God sanctifies and who rises to the occasion when she sees a real need. She does not demand that others do what she would not do.
Her awakening interest in others is a work of God in her. Like Lydia of old, who said, “If you count me worthy…” her home is open. The whole church needs help, and she steps in to give it. Phoebe is a true servant who fulfills the work needed in the assembly at Cenchrea. A young woman wonders what to do next and worries until an older sister in Christ invites her and visits. They discuss the person’s needs and habits, and a spiritual solution is reached. A woman-servant, a handmaid of the Lord, is content with God’s work.
A deacon and his wife who share faith and love for the Lord and His people will discover they can serve together, just like Aquila and Priscilla. The use of the word “wives” in this passage can refer to a woman or a wife. Regardless of the exact meaning, it seems intentionally vague so that those serving the Lord in any capacity can do so willingly and gladly, as “to the Lord and not unto men.”
However, when a woman in an assembly takes on a task for the Lord, she must be an exemplary Christian whose attitude and behavior are as responsible and blameless as that of her husband, who is a prominent elder. Their respectful reverence for God will be evident in their attitude of heart toward God and His word. Their interaction and communication with others will be free from malice or a desire to undermine the leadership of the assembly or the testimony of other believers. They should be well-balanced in attitude and actions, self-controlled, and trustworthy in speech and character, so they will be known for their grace, wisdom, and faithfulness.