Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus…. which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium. Acts 15:1,2
There are no chance encounters with God. We all look back at the moment when we first met people who became very important in our lives, and are thankful for both the encounter and for the memory. The word ‘behold’ in our text indicates that the presence of Timothy was something that Paul took note of. And well he should! The two men struck up a friendship and partnership that lasted until Paul died. They forged a deep bond that carried them through perilous missionary journeys, imprisonments, turmoils within the Assemblies that they saw planted, and enforced separations that were bridged by invaluable correspondence that survives today in the Scriptures. Paul found in Timothy a man who he could trust fully and in whom he could confide. The occasion of their meeting was highly significant as it introduces us to a man who deserves high commendation and appreciation. He serves as a model for young men and women today.
Timothy came from a good family; that is not to his credit specifically, although he appears to have seized the advantage of being raised in a godly home to develop into a godly young man. It is a joy to parents when they see their children growing in the things of God, taking an interest in His Word, His work, and His people. Timothy was also known as a man of faith, which he learned from his godly grandmother Lois and his godly mother Eunice (1 Timothy 1:5). But what stands out in our text as significant about Timothy is that he was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.
Although Timothy was a young man, he had the respect of the elder men who were in his Assembly. To gain that respect, he would firstly have to be respectful of the elders. He did not overstep his bounds or push himself to a forefront that he had not earned. Secondly, he would have to demonstrate his willingness to fulfill whatever role the elders deemed he was suited for. He undoubtedly had a good interest in the Scriptures and in Gospel work. And he certainly would have had a care for the other Christians. The fact that he was well known and highly respected at both his home Assembly in Lystra and in Iconium shows that he was very active in his Christian testimony. It is little wonder that Paul saw in this promising young man a good candidate for missionary work and for high responsibilities in serving the Lord’s people.
Timothy is an example of the godly and commendable young men and women that we find among us. Let us encourage them and see that they have opportunity to serve their Lord. -Jim MacIntosh