Modest but Mighty: Onesiphorus, a Loyal Companion (PM)

2 Timothy 1:13-18

Introduction:

1. Have you ever struggled with loneliness?

2. Though varying in degree, people need other people, especially in times of difficulty.

3. Our modest but mighty character this evening is enshrined in the word of God because of his loyalty to Paul and the cause of Christ.

Discussion:

I. Paul’s Loneliness

A. As Paul awaited execution in Rome (1:17; 4:6-8), many who labored with him abandoned him or simply left to labor elsewhere (1:15; 4:10-12, 16).

B. In his loneliness, he pleaded with Timothy to bring Mark with him and come to him quickly that he may be comforted by their presence (4:9, 11-13, 21).

C. Though the Lord was his ultimate deliverer (4:17-18), he still needed fellowship.

II. Onesiphorus’ Loyalty

A. Paul, echoing Jesus’ own words, repeatedly highlighted the need to be unashamed of the gospel (cf. Mark 8:38; Luke 9:26; Romans 1:16; 2 Timothy 1:8; 12).

B. It would be easy to shy away from Paul while he was sitting in a Roman prison awaiting execution for preaching the same gospel that brought you to his side.

C. Notice what Paul states concerning Onesiphorus and his loyalty to the cause.

1. He often refreshed Paul; Roman prisons were not full-service prisons like we have today, but prisoners depended on family, friends, etc. to sustain them.

2. He was unashamed of his chains, knowing the One for whom he was in chains.

3. He made haste upon arriving in Rome to find Paul to tend his needs.

III. Imitating Onesiphorus

A. Such loyalty to the cause of Christ is worthy of imitation (1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 3:17).

B. Onesiphorus demonstrated Paul’s command for Timothy to shamelessly uphold the gospel’s call and share in his chains (1:8, 13-14; 2:1-4; 4:1-3, 9-13, 21).

C. We would do well to be an Onesiphorus to our brethren (1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 3:17).

Conclusion:

1. It is easy to speak highly of Paul and his labors in the gospel.

2. But how far would he have gone without loyal fellow soldiers like Onesiphorus?

3. Whether we take center stage or play a supporting role, we are critical to the show.

Further Food for Thought

1. Have you ever downplayed the value of the simple act of standing by a brother or sister?

2. In light of the Spirit’s view of this, how might you reconsider such simple acts now?