What can we learn about Christian fellowship from Paul's mention of Erastus and Trophimus? Text in Focus “Erastus has remained at Corinth, and I left Trophimus sick in Miletus.” (2 Timothy 4:20) A Quick Snapshot of Paul’s Team • Erastus: a trusted coworker; earlier helped prepare the way for Paul’s ministry (Acts 19:22); later served as city treasurer in Corinth (Romans 16:23). • Trophimus: a Gentile believer from Ephesus who traveled extensively with Paul (Acts 20:4; 21:29). • Timothy: the letter’s recipient, urged to “make every effort to come” (2 Timothy 4:9). • Others named in this chapter—Luke, Mark, Crescens, Titus, etc.—remind us Paul rarely served alone. Lessons About Fellowship from One Passing Verse • Fellowship happens in real places with real people. – Corinth, Miletus, Rome: distinct cities, distinct needs, one gospel mission. • Ministry teams adapt to changing circumstances. – Erastus stays put to strengthen the church locally. – Trophimus must pause due to illness; Paul keeps moving. • Illness and weakness don’t break Christian bonds. – Paul does not hide Trophimus’s sickness; he acknowledges it and keeps the believers informed. • Faithfulness can look different for each person. – Erastus’s civic role (Romans 16:23) shows believers serve Christ both inside and outside church walls. • Transparency strengthens trust. – Paul shares logistical details with Timothy, modeling honest communication among coworkers (Proverbs 27:17). • Even seasoned missionaries can’t do everything. – Paul lets go of dear companions when necessary, fulfilling Galatians 6:2—“Carry one another’s burdens,” yet resting in God’s sovereignty. Cross-References That Echo These Themes • Acts 18:1–3, 5: Paul forms friendships while working and preaching—fellowship grows in everyday life. • 1 Corinthians 12:21–27: “The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I do not need you’ …”—each member indispensable. • Philippians 2:25–30: Epaphroditus nearly dies; the church rallies—care for the ill parallels Trophimus. • Hebrews 10:24–25: “spur one another on toward love and good deeds… not neglecting to meet together.” • 3 John 5–8: Commendation for sending and supporting traveling workers—Erastus and Trophimus in reverse roles. Practical Takeaways for Today • Encourage different callings: some go, some stay, all serve. • Keep each other informed; small updates nurture big trust. • Support the sick without sidelining them—include, communicate, pray, visit. • Let ministry be flexible; changing plans does not equal failed plans. • Celebrate secular vocations done for Christ’s glory, just as Erastus’s public office advanced gospel credibility. • Hold team members loosely in your hands and tightly in your heart—God directs the steps (Proverbs 16:9). Moving Forward Together Fellowship flourishes when believers honor one another’s assignments, share needs openly, and stand ready to help whenever God rearranges the team. Paul’s brief mention of Erastus and Trophimus invites us to practice that same adaptable, transparent, and supportive fellowship today. |
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