Lesser Known Disciples
Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. A disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek. He was well spoken of by the brothers at Lystra and Iconium. Acts 16:1-2 (ESV)
It was after the ‘disagreement’ mentioned in the previous devotion that Paul and Silas came to the Roman Province of Galatia. In Lystra, Paul met a young Christian by the name of Timothy. Timothy’s father was a Greek man who, it seems, played no role in his religious instruction in the Christian faith; that work was done by his Jewish mother Eunice and grandmother Lois (2 Timothy 1:5).
The believers in both Lystra and Iconium spoke well of Timothy, and it seems that Paul and Timothy developed a close relationship as believers, and when Paul continued on his Journey, Timothy went with them. Paul shows his care for Timothy in his letters to him, referring to him as ‘my true child in the faith’ (1 Timothy 1:2) and ‘my beloved child’ (2 Timothy 1:2). While we aren’t told his age, it seems clear that Timothy was a young man (1 Timothy 4:12). The Apostle Paul would leave Timothy behind to do the work of the Lord in different places. While young, he clearly knew that the Lord was his strength, which truly shows spiritual maturity.
We could use a few “Timothys” today and a number of “Pauls” to go with them. Let the story of Timothy also encourage parents among us to take seriously the raising of their child in the Word of the Lord. While you may have certain aspirations for your sons, the Savior may have a different plan for them. He may have them leave home and plant the word in different places. In this way, they will glorify God.
Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings with Your gracious favor and grant us Your constant help, so that in all our works begun, continued and completed in You we may glorify Your holy name and finally, by Your mercy, obtain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer for Dive Guidance and Help (ed.), The Lutheran Hymnal