How can we apply Paul's relational approach in our church community? Seeing People by Name 2 Timothy 4:19: “Greet Prisca and Aquila, as well as the household of Onesiphorus.” • Paul singles out real believers with real names. • Romans 16:3–4; Colossians 4:7–15 show the same pattern. How to practice: – Learn and use names on Sundays and in small groups. – Send personal texts or notes through the week. – Publicly acknowledge volunteers and quiet servants. Celebrating Faithful Friendships • Prisca and Aquila risked their lives for Paul (Romans 16:3–4). • Acts 18:2–3 records how they labored alongside him. How to practice: – Tell stories of shared ministry victories. – Pair seasoned believers with newer ones for mentoring (Titus 2:3-5). – Schedule “testimony moments” in services to honor co-laborers. Strengthening Households of Faith • “The household of Onesiphorus” receives a collective greeting. • 2 Timothy 1:16–18 shows their courage and hospitality to Paul in prison. How to practice: – Pray for whole families, not just individuals. – Equip parents to host Bible studies at home (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). – Visit shut-ins and include entire households in care plans. Practicing Intentional Greeting • 1 Corinthians 16:19 calls believers to greet “warmly in the Lord.” • Hebrews 10:24-25 urges gathering with encouragement. How to practice: – Begin meetings with a sincere greeting time, not a perfunctory handshake. – Train greeters to listen, remember past conversations, and offer prayer on the spot. – Follow up first-time guests within 24 hours. Extending Compassion in Trials • Onesiphorus “searched diligently” for Paul and “was not ashamed of my chains” (2 Timothy 1:16-17). How to practice: – Keep a running list of hospitalized or persecuted believers; organize visits. – Create a benevolence fund and let members know how to request help. – Encourage small groups to adopt missionaries or local prisoners for regular contact. Mobilizing Team Ministry • Prisca and Aquila hosted a church in their house (1 Corinthians 16:19). • Paul’s letters list dozens of coworkers—no lone-ranger ministry. How to practice: – Invite members to discover and deploy spiritual gifts (1 Peter 4:10). – Rotate leadership roles to grow new servants. – Celebrate team wins rather than spotlighting one personality. Living It Out This Week • Memorize 2 Timothy 4:19; thank God for two people by name each day. • Reach out to one family and ask how you can serve them. • Arrive early Sunday to greet five people you do not normally talk to. • Write a short email or card honoring someone’s quiet faithfulness. |
    |