ROMANS 16:21-24 FRIENDS AND FELLOWLABORERS The book of Romans begins with sin and ends with those who believe, being solidly established in faith by the Gospel. It opens up with the subject of righteousness and ends with examples of righteous persons who are identified by the writer. It tells of the past and future glory of Israel and concludes with a list of Jews and Gentiles who illustrate the oneness in the Body of Christ. It tells of the problems that arise in a fellowship of believers who gather in the name of the Lord and ends with brethren united in common cause - the spread of the Gospel and the blessings of the blood-bought Church of God.
To be a "workfellow" puts one in a place of sharing in the labor of the Gospel that lasts, and the blessings of the Gospel that brings many into the kingdom of God. What joy and rejoicing there is when friends and fellow-laborers communicate over the results of their labors for the Lord. The man in whose home these friends are gathered is one who wanted the others to know of his interest in them as well. This man with a large heart of compassion and kindness, would have counted it a privilege to serve this company of friends, fellow-workers and servants of God.
It is always a cause for gratitude when brothers and sisters come together to talk over the things of the Lord. When we are able to share with others what God is doing in our lives, we encourage them in what they are doing for the Lord as well. Our labors are not always the same. But when each fills his or her God-given role, there is cause to praise God and thank Him for what He is doing through the united efforts of His people. "To God be the glory, great things He has done."
I don't know all my brothers and sisters do, But I can always rejoice - That He who sent them to labor for Him - Sometimes lets me hear their voice As they trace the hand of God with them, And the results of their laboring days. When I hear these things, then from my heart Comes the desire to give God praise.
One may be laboring along with others - Another has to work alone. Some may see a gradual work - Others may see a lot done. But all can rejoice together - Because it is God that gives the increase. There is no reason for self-applause - To God we give all the praise.
In one city near and another afar off, In countries to many unknown - Comes the reports of laborers to our ears As to what is needed and what is being done. My heart is lifted up in thanks As I think of their laboring days. And know that when the laborers are all home, To God they will give all thanks and praise.
"Gracious God, my Father: for the faithful laborers in Thy vineyard, for the fellowship of those "who stay by the stuff," for the unknown servants, for those who stand out publicly for Thee - I give Thee thanks and praise. For who they are and what they have accomplished for the furtherance of the kingdom of God - may they all find their joy in Thee when they are able to find some time to rest from their labors. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen."