Timothy

Have you ever visited a church – perhaps it was a former church that you attended at one point in your life or a church you’ve wanted to visit. One of the reasons you visit is because you have wanted to hear the pastor speak. You know of his vibrant ministry and his powerful, biblical messages and want to partake of it firsthand. You sit in your pew with anticipation, as if you were about to delve into a scrumptious feast prepared by an expert chef. You sing your heart out during every hymn and song. You pray earnestly with each prayer delivered. And them comes … what?!?! The associate pastor?!?! I came all this way for the associate pastor?!?! You take a dive into the depths of disappointment and there allow his every word to move through one ear and out the other. Bummer!

It seems that in our study today of Philippians 2:19-24 that Paul is trying to keep the Philippians from such a disappointment. He has an incredible relationship with these people. They know him and love him, and probably most hang on his every word, yet Paul was going to be sending Timothy to them and didn’t want him to be received as the second-rate pastor. So Paul commends Timothy to the Philippians even though they already know him. Paul reminds them that Timothy’s heart for ministry beats with Paul’s. He would instruct them and care for them just as Paul would have had he been with them. Timothy was trustworthy. “But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel” (2:22). Paul placed his complete confidence in this young pastor and wanted the Philippians to as well.

Apparently there were others that Paul could have sent but did not. These were ministers who were more self-focused than service oriented. In the midst of ministry, they might be more concerned that their own needs and perhaps desires were met before giving to others. Or possibly they ministered to others because it made them feel good. Whatever the case, they were placing themselves before Christ and His work for His glory. And people know when that’s the case. So Paul distinguishes Timothy by setting him apart from the rest of this group.

Every believer who ministers in the name of Jesus has something to offer. Sometimes we close ourselves off to certain people because we don’t like the way they talk or dress or act. Maybe they’re too philosophical or intelligent. Maybe they’re dull or repetitive. Or maybe they just aren’t educated enough, unable to use eloquent speech and connect complex ideas thoughtfully and brilliantly. Timothy was too young in some people’s minds. He probably didn’t have enough experience for some. He didn’t seem to have the type of outgoing personality that attracted a crowd. But you know, it didn’t and doesn’t matter because his heart belonged to God. God can and will still use these people despite their apparent weaknesses. So set your premonitions and pride aside and allow God’s servants to minister. This doesn’t mean that you let your guard down and accept every word as truth. Be wise, but couple that with humility. And hopefully you’ll be blessed in unexpected ways.

Grace and peace to you, dear friend.