Philippians 2:22, “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.”
The story of Paul and Timothy in the Bible is a remarkable story of discipleship and loyalty. Paul most likely led Timothy to the Lord in his first missionary trip to Lystra and Derbe in Acts 14:6-7. However, it wasn’t until after John Mark, Barnabas’ nephew, had forsaken Paul that Timothy was given the chance to be Paul’s traveling companion, Acts 13:13;15:38-16:3. In other words, when one of Paul’s young disciples quit and turned back in the middle of a mission trip; God raised up a new partner for Paul to travel with.
Paul and Timothy’s relationship spanned for approximately 20 years and most likely started when Timothy was in his mid to upper teens, 15-19yrs old. Paul considered Timothy a “son in the faith” or a “spiritual son,” 1 Timothy 1:2. The trust that Paul had in Timothy can be seen in his choosing to place him over the churches in Ephesus, which was where Paul spent the most time and most likely had the greatest fruit, Acts 20:13-38.
At one point in Paul’s ministry it seemed like many people were abandoning him but he states that Timothy never left his side. He wrote in Philippians 2:19-23 regarding his love for Timothy, “19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. 21 For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22 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. 23 I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24 And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.”
Then at the end of Paul’s life Timothy was the one to receive his last and final letter- 2 Timothy. In this letter Paul started by writing, “Timothy, my dear son,” and ended by saying, “Do your best to come to me quickly… Demas has deserted me,” 2 Timothy 1:2,4:9-10. Thus, the life of Timothy is really only known by the things Paul writes about him because he himself never wrote any letters. However, what we can learn Paul is that Timothy had great faith in God and was willing to follow Paul (as he followed Christ), even when others forsook him.
No wonder Paul uses the imagery of a “father and son” relationship with Timothy. Together they served God and fought the good fight of faith and never let anything break apart their love and commitment to each other. And because of their work together some of the greatest books in the Bible have been written (1-2 Timothy, my personal favorites). Plus, both young and old leaders alike have been inspired to work together for the Kingdom of God spanning the generational gaps and successfully passing the gospel torch.
Reflection
Do you enough faith to serve your church leadership like Timothy did for Paul?
Action
- Repent if you have ever wrongfully forsaken your church leadership.
- Ask the Lord to bring you into “family style” relationships with leaders in your church.
- Like Timothy, by faith, be committed and loyal to the good leadership God has placed in your life.
