Refreshing Brethren II Timothy 1:16 I. Introduction. A. Some brethren are a joy to be with, to talk to, and to spend time with. 1. They lift the spirit, give joy to the heart, and help in facing life's problems. 2. Even in Old Testament, such was recognized: Proverbs 25:13. a. How satisfying for one to speak truth. b. No sham, no hypocrisy, no hidden meanings, etc.--you can trust this one. 3. Paul spoke of one: II Timothy 1:16. B. The word "refresh" is used often in life. 1. We seek "refreshment" when thirsty, tired etc. 2. English refresh: To make fresh or fresher, as by cooling; to restore strength; to revive. 3. Greek: To support, to give rest again, to cool or refresh again, a cooling, obtaining relief(refreshment of the inner man). C. The word of God is refreshing: the assemblies of God's people are refreshing; working in the Lord's vineyard is refreshing; associating with other Christians is refreshing. D. And...there are refreshing brethren. II. Body. A. Onesiphorus--refresher of Paul: II Timothy 1:16-18. 1. Paul said he did it often. a. Even this apostle needed the support of others. b. Because--not ashamed of Paul. c. Found Paul when away from home. d. Not only Paul--but others(v. 18). 2. What kind of a person was Onesiphorus? a. Sacrificial? Bold? Dependable? b. A diligent one: sought Paul--implies persistence. c. Give us more like him! d. What a joy to have in one's home. B. Philemon--refresher of others: Philemon 7. 1. Paul explained this man's love. 2. Hearts of other saints were affected. 3. Even Paul said: Philemon 20. 4. What kind of a person was Philemon? a. Beloved and fellow-worker: v. 1. b. One who accepted those who changed for righteousness' sake(Onesimus). (1 Left Philemon a runaway slave: returned a brother. (2 To be received as he would Paul. c. One who inspired confidence in an apostle. C. Three disciples refreshed Paul and the Corinthians: II Corinthians 7:12-13. 1. Paul rejoiced to see them. a. Are folks glad to see us? b. Do I bring something worthwhile to others? 2. Supplied Paul's needs: served as useful men of God. 3. Like others, they labored for the Lord and His people. 4. Their influence felt by the brethren in Corinth. D. The Corinthian brethren refreshed Titus: II Corinthians 7:13. 1. By "you all"--not just a few--all strengthened Titus. 2. Paul had written first letter to correct some problems: they reacted properly and Paul observed: v. 14- 16. a. Cause for rejoicing when folks change. b. Gives courage to those who contributed to the change. E. Friends refreshed Paul: Acts 27:3. 1. The right kind to have! 2. The right kind to seek! 3. The right kind to cultivate! 4. Paul the prisoner needed them now. 5. Not fair-weather folks who cannot be found when trouble arises. 6. Note Proverbs 18:24. 7. Seek them out; cultivate them; stand by to help; encourage them, etc. F. God's book speaks of seasons of refreshing: Acts 3:19. 1. Obtaining relief from sins. 2. Having a clean heart, fervent spirit, and determined mind. 3. We must do as these: obey God's truth. 4. The rest(same base word as refresh) from Christ: Matthew 11:28. III. Conclusion. A. Am I a "refreshing" person to my brethren and others? Like a breath of fresh air? or a hot flash? or a cold breeze? B. Have I received the refreshing from God that obedience brings?-James L. Yopp