Receive him… in the Lord. Philippians 2:29. “Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:” Epaphroditus was a man of faithful reputation, and we would greatly value his friendship. He came among God’s people as a humble servant whose care for others has been celebrated in words of praise. Today, a man like him would be a blessing. His reputation alone lets us recognize him, and a letter of commendation confirming that he has been tested and proven, as others will testify in writing. Such people don’t arrive suspiciously, leaving us to wonder why he was not more willing to tell us where he came from. A person with a godly testimony, whom we gladly accept, will have gathered in Jesus’ name with the Lord’s people in some other assembly.
We can easily open our homes to anyone in need, but welcoming someone into our fellowship means that they pay attention to God’s Word and want to obey it. A letter from others adds weight to their testimony, and we can respect them because others have assured us of their integrity. A lesson to learn today is that not everyone can be trusted to tell the truth about themselves. If they seem arrogant or flustered when asked about their faith and way of life, read a recommendation letter from someone you know. That written assurance will declare their testimony even if they find it hard to speak about themselves.
If there is something about an unknown person that reveals the grace of God through them, that should be observable to reaffirm what the letter states. You are generally safe to ask where they have previously been in fellowship and what they believe. True saints will gladly answer questions, knowing you are acting biblically, and the saints of the assembly can receive that person wholeheartedly.