Bible Thoughts

October 26, 2003

Tychicus was a unique individual. He had won the heart of the apostle. Paul described him as beloved and faithful. Paul also knew that he would reliably report "all things" to the brethren. A man of trust; a reliable person. He is further identified as one who would "comfort their hearts." Tychicus would be a blessing to the Ephesians. He had been dear to Paul; now his strength of character and his devotion would be an encouragement to the Ephesians. How well, my friend, are you trusted in your daily affairs? In the reports you give to others? Learn a lesson from Tychicus: build up trust by being faithful in what you say and do.

Paul is giving Mark an excellent compliment. He is "useful." The apostle recognized him as one who would be profitable in spreading the word of God. The principle of usefulness is not confined, however, to those who would help out in spiritual work. Usefulness is a quality for all walks of life. If you hire out to a person, be useful. If you are part of a family, be useful. If you become part of some organization, be useful. Think also in terms of others: you want them to be useful when you are involved with them at work, at home, or any other place. If all of us did what we could to be useful in every area in which we live and/or function, what a better world this would be. Above all, we need to be useful in the service of Jesus Christ. In truth, that is the only kind of disciple that pleases Jehovah. To be useful, one must be faithful.

This man, Epaphroditus, is a unique individual. The apostle Paul had a great deal of confidence in him. His confidence was justified. Epaphroditus proved himself as he stood beside Paul in the battle for truth and right. He demonstrated his eagerness to do right as he worked beside Paul. He had been faithful in being a messenger to and for Paul. He also did what he could to meet the needs of the apostle by bringing a "sacrifice" to meet those needs. Such an example is worthy of imitation, not only by the Philippians, but in our age as well. Dedication and faithful service is not outmoded. It is as needed today as it was in the days of Paul, the apostle. Whatever you do, in word of deed, do it all with the type of eagerness found in Epaphroditus.

The one to whom John is writing was a beloved person. Why? Because he respected and loved the truth. Is not amazing to find a person who is so spiritually healthy that it is desired he have the same degree of physical health? I fear it is too often the opposite. To impress an apostle, one had to be another of those most unique people we read about in the New Testament. Gaius, as others, set an example by the life that he lived, what he believed, and that for which he would stand. The life of devotion to the truth gave Gaius spiritual health. John was delighted that Gaius was one of his "children" that walked in truth. The influence of a righteous person had influenced Gaius. Such a life should influence each of us to seek the spiritual health that will lead one to please God.

The description of this man by the apostle Paul should be the description of every person. To be faithful and beloved is indicative of a person who is walking the paths of righteousness. Onesimus was not only faithful and beloved, he was a brother to Paul. This brother in Christ had heard the gospel preached, probably by Paul, and had responded to the message of Jesus Christ. Onesimus believed in Jesus Christ with all of his heart, he repented of his sins, he confessed Christ with the mouth, and he submitted to being immersed in water for the remission of his sins. This made Onesimus a brother in Christ with Paul. The same gospel will make one a brother to all the faithful in our day. After becoming a Christian, it is up to the individual to so live as to be "faithful and beloved." Or, as Jesus said, "Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee the crown of live"(Revelation 2:10).

The early Christians felt for the needs of others. They willingly sacrificed to see that other disciples were properly clothed and fed. Their actions were motivated by the love they had for each other. They were of "one heart and one soul." Whatever they possessed, they shared. This unity of spirit characterized Christians in the early church; it characterizes those who are Christians at the present. Individuals who love the Lord love those who belong to the Lord. When opportunity presents itself to help, they are willing to sacrifice. The real spirit of giving is demonstrated in this example among the early Christians. Even in our day Christians will sacrifice in order to see to the needs of others. Personal concerns and personal action is a way of life for those who follow the scriptures.