How can we emulate the encouragement Paul received from Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus? Setting the Scene “I am glad that Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus have arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you.” (1 Corinthians 16:17) Paul’s words record an actual visit from three Corinthian believers who travelled the long miles to see him. Their arrival tangibly filled a gap—meeting needs the distant church could not meet from afar. Why Their Visit Mattered • They came in person; letters alone were not enough (v. 17). • They “supplied” what was missing—practical help and heart-level fellowship. • Verse 18 says, “For they refreshed my spirit and yours as well.” Their ministry lifted Paul’s soul and, by extension, the Corinthians’. • Paul immediately urges, “Show your appreciation, therefore, to such men.” Genuine encouragers deserve open honor. Snapshots of Godly Encouragement Elsewhere • Titus: “But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the arrival of Titus” (2 Corinthians 7:6). Presence itself can be divine comfort. • Onesiphorus: “He often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains” (2 Timothy 1:16). Loyal friendship shines brightest in hardship. • Barnabas: nicknamed “Son of Encouragement” (Acts 4:36); he vouched for Paul when others feared him (Acts 9:26-27). Marks of an Encourager We Can Imitate • Intentional presence—showing up even when inconvenient. • Practical supply—identifying what is “lacking” and quietly meeting it (Galatians 6:2). • Spirit-refreshing words—speaking life that lifts the weary (Proverbs 16:24). • Shared identity—standing with believers regardless of their circumstances (Hebrews 10:33-34). • Public affirmation—helping the wider body recognize and honor faithful servants (1 Corinthians 16:18b). Putting It into Practice Today 1. Look for the gap. Ask the Lord, “Where is something missing that I could supply?” Maybe a hospital visit, a meal, or a listening ear. 2. Go the distance. A phone call, a drive across town, a plane ride—even small sacrifices mirror Stephanas and his friends. 3. Refresh with Scripture. Text a verse, read a psalm aloud, or leave a handwritten note—God’s Word never returns void (Isaiah 55:11). 4. Encourage publicly and privately. Thank servants of the Lord in front of others and also in quiet moments. 5. Stay consistent. Encouragement is not a one-time event; it’s a rhythm (Hebrews 3:13). Watching the Fruit Grow When believers follow the example of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, spirits are refreshed, needs are met, and Christ’s body is strengthened. “Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). |
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