1 Corinthians 1:1b and Sosthenes our brother

2 Corinthians 1:1b and Timothy our brother

Galatians 2:2b with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also.

Ephesians 6:21b Tychicus, a beloved brother

Philippians 4:18b having received of Epaphroditus

Colossians 1:1b and Timotheus our brother

1 and 2 Thessalonians 1:1a Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus

Paul never failed to mention men who were with him in service to God. Some are better known to us, having some historical content to indicate their involvement in spreading the gospel in those early years. Others are less known to us but not unknown to the people of the times. Paul’s use of these names gave credence to their reputation for a time and a place. Beyond that we know little.

Not long ago I asked an open ended question. Have you let yourself be known to others? This issue of this being an open ended question lays in how you feel about yourself. Some of us have a past filled with shame. Others might swell with pride. Perhaps you are humble and care not to talk about yourselves.

Here is Paul’s point in calling out these men. You cannot be of use to God without being known. Jonah hid in the bottom of a boat. Elijah hid from Ahab. Both were called out to do the will of God. Sometimes I feel like a Jonah. Sometimes I wish I could be an Elijah. My story is my own but it is not unlike that of many others who seek God for a changed life.

2 Thessalonians 1:10-11 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day. Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: