Claudia

A Sincere Supporter

Claudia is mentioned only in this short second letter to Timothy, in which Paul exudes fatherly tenderness and goodwill. She is included in a list of presumed members of the Roman church who send greetings to the young pastor. She should certainly be included among the most respected and influential women of Gentile background who heard and accepted the gospel. Probably these four people mentioned were leaders in the church or simply believers who had met Timothy personally when he was with Paul in Rome. Some commentators suggest Linus as Claudia’s son and Pudens as her husband. In any case, women and men joined together in greeting and ministry without distinction.

The family of faith is also emphasized in this personalized greeting, undoubtedly in response to Jesus’ prayer for unity and love among His brethren (see John 17:20–23). Claudia was a faithful encourager of Paul and a committed supporter of the congregation of believers.

Taken from The Woman’s Study Bible