Just look at the words that Paul spoke concerning this brother in the Lord. “The Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain; but when he arrived in Rome, he sought me out very diligently and found me. The Lord grant to him that he may find mercy from the Lord in that Day-and you know very well how many ways he ministered to me at Ephesus,” (II Tim. 1:16-18).

When you read these words, it is easy to see how much Paul appreciated all that this brother did for him. Why was Paul telling this to young Timothy though? Was this really going to help Timothy? Is it also beneficial for us today? The answer is yes for many reasons.

In the verse prior to the above text (verse 15), the apostle discussed those who turned away from him in Asia. He even mentioned a couple of them by name. By then bringing up Onesiphorus, Paul was showing Timothy that he should expect ups and downs in preaching (and the Christian life in general). Some people will not support evangelistic work, and others will care deeply. As an evangelist, Timothy needed to be ready to encounter the same things.

Paul also revealed that while there were times when he was disappointed, he was also careful to not take kindness for granted. He did not demonstrate an attitude of entitlement – “I am devoting my life to teaching and everyone else should be more supportive of me!”  Instead, the apostle was extremely appreciative. Timothy and others need to exhibit the same attitude.

Seeing Paul’s appreciation for Onesiphorus is just as relevant for Christians today. It helps us to also understand the impact we can have on those who labor for the Lord. This impact can be good or bad depending on how we treat them. It also shows to the extent we should be willing to go to in order to help fellow Christians.  Knowing that there are few in the Lord’s family, we ought to do all we can to help one another out. May we all think on these things and try to grow our bonds as brethren.

                                                                                             Chuck