I was glad of the coming of Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied. Corinthiams 16:17
A middle-aged couple sat quietly in a corner and said little during the meetings of the Assembly where we were visiting. They did appear friendly and pleasant, and obviously on good terms with everybody. There was no real reason to even notice them, but for some reason, I did. And as I was talking with some of our friends later, I asked them about that couple. The report was very commendable. The keyword was available. If anything needed to be done, they were ready and willing to help out. He could – and did – perform any repair or maintenance work at the Hall. She could – and did – prepare meals when someone needed one, and mend clothing, and many other tasks to help the saints. Although the man took only a small part during meetings, he was always ready to speak when asked and could give a nice word of ministry when nobody else was exercised. Every Assembly should have a couple like them (and many Assemblies do). Like the three lads mentioned in our text, they make up for when other people are not available.
We don’t know anything about these three men in our text, other than that Paul was glad to see them come. He could count on them to look after things. If invitations to Gospel meetings needed to be delivered, they were available. If anything practical needed to be done involving the Christians, or the meetings, or anybody in the community, these men were on deck. Available, reliable, and helpful, and all just because they loved the Lord and His people, and showed their love in practical ways.
Can we learn from Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus? If somebody else doesn’t show up, can we fill the breach? If others don’t see the things that need to be done, or if they don’t care, can we be depended on to make sure they get done? The apostle Paul appreciated men like Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus. Do people appreciate us? -Jim MacIntosh