Multiplying Affect: Colossians 4:7-9
“7) As to all my affairs, Tychicus, our beloved brother and faithful servant and fellow bond-servant in the Lord, will bring you information. 8) For I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know about our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts; 9) and with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of your number. They will inform you about the whole situation here.” Colossians 4:7-9
Paul had a network of messengers to help enhance communications between all the churches. Without realizing it, he was raising up young men and preparing them for ministry and leadership.
Tychicus was most likely from Ephesus. He had accompanied Paul to carry an offering to the persecuted church in Jerusalem. (Compare Acts 20:4, 1 Corinthians 16:1-4 and Ephesians 6:21-22.) He was very much loved and trusted by Paul.
The story of Onesimus is even more interesting. He was the slave of Philemon who fled to Paul while he was a prisoner in Rome. He was the subject matter of the book of Philemon. His story actually highlights how Christianity eventually ended slavery. He was now a trusted member of Paul’s ministry team and emerging leader in the early church.
I can only imagine the stories this second wave of Christian workers could tell. There would be stories of sitting under the teaching and ministry of Paul, but also stories of what God did through them as they traveled. I can only imagine the network of friendships they built in the various churches across Asia Minor and into Jerusalem.
The equipped and unleashed body of Christ is amazing. 1 Timothy 2:1-7 is fleshed out in these men. They were some of the faithful disciples Paul raised up to teach others also. They were Gods foot soldiers.
It is important to grow and serve where God has you planted. Seasons of life build on each other. It can be illustrated by a funnel. When you come to Jesus you enter the small end of the funnel. As you learn, grow, serve and mature in Christ the funnel opens to unlimited size and potential. The students of one generation become valuable fellow workers and then the leaders of the next generation.
According to John 15:1-17, God wants every believer to grow and multiply in fruitfulness. Be faithful where you are and never underestimate the future plans God has for you. “In Christ” you have in unimaginable potential. You are part of the Holy Spirits multiplying affect in the world.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
