English
Scripture Summary
2 Timothy 1:15-18 NIV
Examples of Disloyalty and Loyalty
15 You know that everyone in the province of Asia has deserted me, including Phygelus and Hermogenes.
16 May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains. 17 On the contrary, when he was in Rome, he searched hard for me until he found me. 18 May the Lord grant that he will find mercy from the Lord on that day! You know very well in how many ways he helped me in Ephesus.
Reflection on the Scripture:
No one wants to find themselves on a “blacklist.” Those on a blacklist lose future privileges or blessings because of their past actions. Similarly, there is a record in the kingdom of heaven. All who are chosen and receive new life have their names written on this list—it is the list of life and death, known as the Book of Life (Revelation 20:12–15). At the same time, God keeps a record of every detail of believers’ lives on earth, referred to as the small scrolls (Revelation 10). The rewards for believers are based on these records.
Some believers are barely saved (1 Corinthians 3:15), while others are commended by God as faithful and good servants. This is the reward the Apostle Paul dedicated his life to pursuing (Philippians 3:14). This reward is eternal and everlasting, unlike earthly rewards that are fleeting and transient.
In this passage, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Paul mentions two individuals, Phygelus and Hermogenes, who deserted him. Why were their names specifically highlighted? It is likely because Paul had shown them particular care, nurtured, and guided them in the past. It is also possible they were church leaders who should have taken responsibility but abandoned Paul in his time of greatest need. By doing so, they lost the opportunity to partner with God’s promises and receive their reward.
In contrast, Paul praises the household of Onesiphorus. Their service to Paul was not incidental; they intentionally sought Paul out in the vast city of Rome to help him. When Paul returned to Ephesus, they continued to serve him. Their loyalty to God’s servant was not dependent on Paul’s circumstances. They did not distance themselves from him or give up because he was imprisoned. Their service to Paul was rooted in their love for God.
Jesus said, “If anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward” (Matthew 10:42). How much greater the reward for serving an apostle because of love for God!
Paul reminded believers to “acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work” (1 Thessalonians 5:12–13).
How do you treat your pastors and spiritual leaders?
What will be recorded about your service in the small scrolls?
What will God’s evaluation of you be?
Response through Hymn:
Jesus my best love thou art
https://youtu.be/wgaCaGfKcG4?si=b55ha5BwYfBjlWrj
最知心的朋友
https://youtu.be/fvUsgi3gxJU
忠心的仆人
https://youtu.be/q3L_AkBZuGc
Faithful servants
https://youtu.be/AfaTV6M05nw?si=G5iaJWQH88hxDGmv