Paul described Phoebe as a ‘‘ servant of the church’’ (
Rom. 16:1). The Greek word is diakono" (diakonos), the same as the masculine which is usually translated "deacon." In his letter to Timothy, directions are given about women deacons as well as male deacons (
1 Timothy 3:8-13). In the Pauline epistles it usually has the meaning of ministry. Phoebe is also described as prostati" (prostatis). The meaning given by Liddell and Scott is "exercising authority, to be a leader, to hold office, a leader, chief, a protector."39 It would appear that the translation "helper" is too weak. Phoebe was a person with authority who was a leader and teacher in the community of Cenchreae.
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