Persis: A Christian Woman in Rome
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Persis is a notable figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Apostle Paul's Epistle to the Romans. Her mention is brief yet significant, highlighting her role and contributions within the early Christian community in Rome.

Biblical Reference:

Persis is mentioned in Romans 16:12, where Paul writes, "Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, those women who work hard in the Lord. Greet my beloved Persis, who has worked very hard in the Lord" (Berean Standard Bible). This verse is part of a larger section in which Paul sends personal greetings to various members of the Roman church, acknowledging their efforts and contributions to the faith.

Role and Contributions:

The description of Persis as "beloved" and one who "has worked very hard in the Lord" suggests that she was a dedicated and esteemed member of the early Christian community. The use of the term "beloved" indicates a deep affection and respect from Paul, implying that Persis was not only a fellow laborer but also a cherished friend and sister in Christ.

Her hard work "in the Lord" signifies her active involvement in the ministry and service of the church. This phrase suggests that her efforts were not merely physical or social but were deeply spiritual and aligned with the mission of spreading the Gospel and supporting the Christian community. The emphasis on her laborious work highlights her commitment and possibly her leadership or influential role among the believers in Rome.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the context of the early church, women like Persis played crucial roles in the establishment and growth of Christian communities. Despite the patriarchal society of the time, the early church recognized and valued the contributions of women. Persis's mention alongside other women such as Tryphena and Tryphosa underscores the active participation of women in ministry and their significant impact on the early church.

The Roman church, to which Paul addressed his letter, was a diverse and vibrant community. It included both Jews and Gentiles, and its members came from various social and economic backgrounds. Persis's presence in this community reflects the inclusive nature of the early Christian movement, which transcended traditional social boundaries and united believers in their common faith in Christ.

Legacy:

Although little is known about Persis beyond this single mention, her legacy endures as a testament to the vital role women played in the early church. Her example of hard work and dedication serves as an inspiration for Christians throughout the ages, illustrating the importance of serving the Lord with zeal and love.

Persis's inclusion in Paul's greetings in Romans 16 highlights the personal connections and mutual support that characterized the early Christian communities. Her account, though brief, is a reminder of the countless individuals who, through their faithful service, contributed to the spread of the Gospel and the strengthening of the church.
Nave's Topical Index
Romans 16:12
Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labor in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which labored much in the Lord.
Nave's Topical Index

Greek
4069. Persis -- Persis, a Christian at Rome
... noun from Persikos (Persian) Definition Persis, a Christian at Rome NASB Word Usage
Persis (1). Persis. A Persian woman; Persis, a Christian female -- Persis. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4069.htm - 6k
Library

Persis
... misunderstanding about the 'my'"'the beloved Persis which laboured ... loftiness, the
purity, and truly Christian character of ... before us, of what a woman may be ...
/.../maclaren/romans corinthians to ii corinthians chap v/persis.htm

The Women of the Apostolic Age
... and Tryphosa, who, with Persis, were probably ... that all indigent and unfortunate
Christian females were ... virginity greatly increased a woman's reputation for ...
/.../brittain/women of early christianity/ii the women of the.htm

The Ecclesiastical History of sozomenus
... of that Period, and Progress of Christian Doctrine through ... Concerning the Tree Persis,
which worshiped Christ in ... Concerning the Woman, a Follower of Macedonius ...
//christianbookshelf.org/sozomen/the ecclesiastical history of sozomenus/

Resources
What does the Bible say about idleness/being idle? | GotQuestions.org

Persis: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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