“Every Name Matters: Celebrating the Unsung Heroes of the Church”

Here’s a fun and impactful Bible study based on Romans 16:3–16, a passage where Paul sends greetings to many believers by name. While it may seem like just a list, this passage powerfully illustrates themes of community, recognition, service, and the value of each person in the body of Christ.

Text: Romans 16:3–16

Theme: God sees every name. Every person in His family has purpose and value.

Goal: Help participants appreciate the power of spiritual friendships, serving in obscurity, and honoring others.

1. Icebreaker (5–10 minutes)

Question:

“If someone were writing a letter to your church, who do you think they’d mention by name and why?”

Encourage laughter and appreciation for each other. Keep it light but thoughtful.

2. Read the Passage Aloud (Romans 16:3–16)

Consider having multiple people take turns reading the names to make the group feel involved and reflect the community nature of the passage.

3. Explore the Text (15–20 minutes)

A. Observations and Insights

Ask:

What stands out to you about this list?

How do you think these people felt being named in Paul’s letter?

What does this say about Paul’s relationship with these believers?

Key Themes:

Personal Connection: Paul knew their names, stories, and contributions.

Diversity in the Church: Men, women, couples, workers, even a host of a house church—all part of the same mission.

Honor and Encouragement: Paul openly appreciates and affirms them.

Highlight Verses:

v.3-4: “Greet Priscilla and Aquila… they risked their lives for me.”

v.6: “Greet Mary, who worked very hard for you.”

v.13: “Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me, too.”

4. Discussion Questions (20–30 minutes)

Theological:

What does this passage teach us about the nature of the Church?

How does God view our efforts—even when they’re unseen by others?

Practical:

Who in your church or faith circle is a “behind-the-scenes hero”? Have you ever thanked them?

What does this text teach us about showing honor to others?

Applicational:

What’s one way you can serve your church family like those listed in Romans 16?

Who can you encourage this week with a heartfelt word of affirmation like Paul does here?

5. Activity: “Honor Shout-Outs” (10–15 minutes)

Each person writes a short note or says out loud something affirming about someone in the group or church who’s faithfully served. Make it personal, like Paul did.

(Optional: Bring note cards and pens. Collect them in a basket and deliver them afterward.)

6. Wrap-Up Thought: “Your Name in the Story” (5 minutes)

Close with this reflection:

“If Paul were writing a letter to our church, would he mention your name? Not because of fame or title—but because of your love, service, and faithfulness. In the Kingdom of God, every name matters.”

7. Closing Prayer

Thank God for each person in the room and those who faithfully serve behind the scenes. Ask for a heart like Paul’s—grateful, attentive, and full of honor for others.