“Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, and we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith, that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this.”
1 Thessalonians 3:1-3
Some months ago, my husband, Carl, taught a Bible class series on the Thessalonian letters. When our study through chapter 3 lead to the above scripture, it immediately inspired some self-examination. In this section of Paul’s letter, he and the other apostles are unable to personally visit the Thessalonian congregation. So, instead, they send Timothy. Let’s take a look at three important thoughts to ponder here.
First, notice Paul’s confidence in Timothy. Paul and the other apostles depend on Timothy to fulfill challenging and important tasks in Thessalonica. Without hesitation, Paul writes, “we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s coworker in the gospel of Christ” (v2). Timothy’s capability and willingness to help fellow Christians is so evident that Paul happily chooses Timothy to visit Thessalonica on his behalf. Knowing that Timothy is up to the task, Paul says they were “willing to be left behind” (v1). Paul even refers to Timothy as “God’s coworker!” If that doesn’t speak for Timothy’s dedication, I don’t know what does.
Second, take a look at the tasks assigned to Timothy for his visit with the Thessalonians. He was sent to “establish and exhort” the church. The word establish here means to “strengthen.” The word for his second task, “exhort,” means to urge/encourage. Timothy is sent to give the Thessalonians a spiritual boost, to remind them of their hope in Christ and to encourage them to keep abounding in the work of the Lord as they have been. The Thessalonians are experiencing trials from all sides through persecution, the prominence of idol worship, and temptation of the immoral culture. Timothy is there to fan the flame of their faithfulness to God and ensure that their faith is still thriving in the midst of trials.
Third, compare yourself to Timothy for a moment. Do you eagerly plunge into opportunities to encourage and strengthen fellow Christians whom you see undergoing trials? Would your name come to Paul’s mind when he’s looking for an uplifter to send on his behalf? Could Paul rightfully describe you as “God’s coworker”? Timothy, although presented with outstanding responsibility, proved himself worthy of the task. Could you do the same? Would you even be willing to do so if called?
Every Christian has low points in his/her journey through this world. The blessing a child of God has is in knowing that we do not walk alone. Are you trying to make the pilgrimage to Heaven alone? God intends for us to travel, not just with Him, but with as many of His children as possible. He has provided us with an incredible support system, and He expects us to actively take part in each others’ lives. Sometimes, we may be the ones who need to be strengthened and exhorted, but we must ALWAYS be making opportunities to offer that same support to our fellow Christians. This week, ask yourself this question: “Would Paul send me?” Be on the lookout for ways to establish and exhort others!