Beloved Brother. Colossians 4:7-8. We all have people in our lives with whom we share important things. This does not mean we act with partiality or show an elitist attitude toward others, but we may have worked closely with them, gone through hard and trying times together, and, to some extent, even suffered with them. Some are relatively unknown to many but have made significant contributions of one kind or another to further the kingdom of God.
Some things are best said in person rather than in a letter so that words and thoughts can be exchanged. Spoken words often make it easier to communicate when discussing personal matters like health, living situations, disappointments, hopes, and prospects. This is especially important when talking to someone you've never met and are letting a trusted person speak on your behalf.
A person you know and highly respect can speak on your behalf because you trust his reputation. The report he provides will reliably reflect your intentions. A “fellow servant” of God who is a “beloved brother” to you and a “faithful minister” to the Lord’s people can be depended on to give appropriate information. Such people uplift everyone they interact with. They are a blessing to those who trust them with information and can motivate others through their manner of delivering the report and their attitude toward them.
Certain thoughts come to mind when a brother's name is mentioned. Some people's names bring a smile to our faces when we recall shared experiences, while others evoke a bit of tension due to differences of opinion or conviction. Either way, something special—whether joy or challenge—comes to mind because we are part of the same family. There is an innate sense of “family” whenever you meet a Christian; he is a beloved brother.
Over the years, sharing life and service with some men has built a special bond of appreciation with them. We have faced some difficulties and trials, but also enjoyed good times. He is undoubtedly a beloved brother, even though most of his life is similar to mine. Many things happened during the years of working together, and some positive accomplishments were made. The same brother never left the work until he knew it was finished. When he started something, he stuck with it through thick and thin. Whenever I hear the phrase "faithful minister," I immediately think of him.
In the work we were called to, we worked together; that was the nature of the task. When something arose, you could rely on him without being asked. He wasn't someone to seek credit for himself; he did what he did for the Lord. He was a true fellow servant laboring in physical tasks and teaching the Word of God to bless God’s people and bring glory to our Lord.
I am compelled to stop and reflect on what might be said about me when my name comes up in conversation. Would I be regarded as a beloved brother who is faithful in his ministry? Have I dedicated myself diligently to the work I have been called to? Am I someone who can be relied upon, or am I one of those who say, "We'll wait and see?" I pause to think about the many men I have worked alongside; each has unique gifts to offer, and everyone has different strengths. My challenge is whether there are those to whom I am truly a “beloved brother,” “fellow servant,” and “faithful minister?”
Tychicus was not a man seeking the limelight. He was content to do what he could for Paul and to carry out his role as a God-given duty suited to him. Running errands, bearing burdens, strengthening, and encouraging others was a privilege as a servant of God.
Tell us, please, how are they doing? Sometimes, it is hard to know how they feel because they don’t want us to worry. Do they have a comfortable place to sleep? Are they getting enough to eat? Those questions come to the minds of those who care, whose fellowship with others they want to share, and if there are ways they can help, they are ready. To comfort the hearts of those concerned, we need someone else to tell us if they are doing okay and if all is well.
It would be helpful if we could find a way to give a first-hand report on those who are far away. These reports are different from just the words of a letter; they are audible, and examples involve face-to-face telling of things personally seen and experienced. To get the big picture of what is happening in the lives of those in faraway places, hearing it directly seems to provide more clarity. Sharing the news of what is going on with others allows them to pray more effectively when they come before the throne of grace and make intercession with God.
The person giving the report can then share good news and inform others about lack of funds or needs they can help with. Those far away may remember you in their prayers to God and give thanks for what they have learned about you and the assembly you represent. When we share our lives in the Lord, it comforts everyone involved, especially when they hear that despite setbacks and failures, there are encouraging things happening among the saints and that God is being glorified.
Tychicus, chosen to deliver this letter, was a trustworthy encourager who could faithfully carry it to Colossae. At the same time, he could comfort those in need and affirm what needed to be said. His words would have been timely and clear. Onesimus, once unprofitable, was now useful to both Paul and his master, Philemon, because the power of the Gospel had transformed him. These qualities in God's people today make them valuable in the ongoing work of the Lord worldwide. Aristarchus, Mark, and Jesus/Justus distanced themselves from the Judaizers and became effective in the ministry of the New Testament. One was imprisoned as a fellow sufferer for the Gospel, another who previously struggled was now praised by God's people, and the third had labored alongside Paul. All of Paul's co-workers provided comfort to him during his imprisonment.