AP

A Beloved Brother

“Tychicus the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord…” (Ephesians 6:21).

Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:21, 22

The closing paragraphs of Paul’s letters, as with his introductions, are typically filled with spiritual gems. They may be brief, but they usually contain gold.

In this case, as Paul approaches the end of his letter to the Ephesians, he informs his readers of the special task he has given Tychicus, the bearer of his letter to them. He describes Tychicus as a “beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord” (Ephesians 6:21). What a rich and generous affirmation this is. There is no hint of flattery in it, simply an open expression of affection and esteem.  

I wonder if we are not, in our typical restraint and hesitation to speak highly of one another, losing something very important within the fellowship of believers. The truth is that we seldom speak of each other in such endearing and commendatory terms. Certainly, we want to avoid anything false in what we say to or about others, but is there not a place to be more openly appreciative of each other than we commonly are?

Paul tells his readers that Tychicus will let them know “how I am and what I am doing” (v. 21). He will tell them “everything” about the situation of the apostle and those with him. “I have sent him to you for this very purpose,” he adds, “that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts” (v. 22).

The value of good communication is widely appreciated in business and other social structures. But nowhere is it more important than it is within the church. Mutual love and concern thrive on knowing how others are “doing.” And the importance of personal visits to communicate information face-to-face cannot be underestimated.

I have just returned from a visit to a city where I was able to meet with a pastor and his family engaged in planting a new church. While worshipping with the fledgeling congregation on Sunday, I heard another visiting pastor give a brief report on their church situation in a nearby town. The combined effect of renewing acquaintance with pastoral families, visiting a new church, and hearing reports of needs met and unmet, was wonderfully encouraging.

The ministry of encouragement mustn’t be overlooked in our churches. There are so many things to weigh people down and distractions to take them away from the central concerns of the kingdom of God that we need to seize every opportunity to meet and communicate with fellow Christians – both within our churches and beyond them.

Paul’s words to Philemon, the slave owner and Christian leader in Colossae, have always inspired me. In addressing his brief letter to Philemon, Paul has this to say about him: “I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you” (Philemon 7).

What a thing to have said about us – to be known as a “refresher of the hearts of the saints.” We should all aspire to be such people.

 Closing Thoughts:

• Do you freely express sincere appreciation for your fellow Christians?
• Are people spiritually refreshed through spending time with you?

– Andrew Young