Marks of a Faithful Disciple, #2

Tychicus, an obscure ministry associate of the apostle Paul, is teaching us about faithfulness to Christ.

2. He Is Faithful with His Labor

Paul calls Tychicus a faithful minister in the Lord (Ephesians 6:21). “Minister” has the idea of giving assistance by performing certain duties.

A disciple’s service is often menial in nature. The faithful disciple is oblivious to that, because he doesn’t serve to receive applause from men.

Tychicus helped Paul in his need. The church is built on people who receive an assignment and fulfill the job, even if the labor outwardly seems unimpressive.

Jesus said: He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much (Luke 16:10).

As you contemplate the ministry the Lord has given to you, don’t focus on its prominence. The Lord evaluates by faithfulness. Commit your heart to be reliable in the task and trust the Lord for what happens next.

3. He Is Faithful with His Lips

Paul assigned Tychicus to tell others about his circumstances when Paul could not be present personally.

I have sent [Tychicus] to you for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and that he may comfort your hearts (Ephesians 6:22).

Paul authorized Tychicus to speak about his circumstances. Tychicus was so reliable that Paul could put him in front of the church without worrying about inappropriate words or behavior.

Tychicus would not turn his opportunity into an act of self-promotion.

During his years with Paul, Tychicus must have consistently manifested the following trait:

Let no unwholesome word proceed out of your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear (Ephesians 4:29).

Can spiritual leaders trust how you will act and what you will say without supervision? Do people walk away from you encouraged and comforted in their Christian lives?

Or do anger, sarcasm, and indifference leave different effects in your wake?

A true disciple is faithful in his labor and with his lips.