And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith. 1 Thessalonians 3:2
Paul’s protege Timothy – called Timotheus in our text – is frequently mentioned in Paul’s letters. They spent much time together, shared many experiences, and remained in close contact even when apart. They trusted each other and cared for each other deeply. So it was not easy for Paul to send Timothy to Thessaloniki when he would have been glad of his presence in Corinth. Our text tells us of three ways in which Paul appreciated him.
Paul refers to Timothy first as a brother. Paul had seen the young man saved, and had rejoiced at his growth in spiritual things. But the fact that they were brothers in Christ was the most precious to him. That relationship in Christ should also be the first thing we appreciate about other Christians.
Paul also called Timothy a minister, or servant. The older man truly appreciated his younger friend’s efforts to help in so many ways, and he also appreciated Timothy’s attitude toward being Paul’s servant. Do we serve our fellow Christians so willingly, thoughtfully, and joyfully?
Paul’s passion for living was in spreading the Gospel, and in Timothy he had someone who shared that passion and who laboured willingly in it. We ought to be just as passionate at being a help in the Gospel with likeminded Christians.
Timothy – a brother, a servant, and a fellow evangelist. Just like us? -Jim MacIntosh
Here is the link to the video of this message: https://youtu.be/HSWbTw1wgmg