9 Make every effort to come to me quickly, 10 because Demas, in his love of this world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is useful to me in the ministry. 12 Tychicus, however, I have sent to Ephesus. 13 When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments.

14 Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his deeds. 15 You too should beware of him, for he has vigorously opposed our message.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Paul Bogg

Today’s passage brings home some harsh realities of what it’s like being involved in the ministry of the gospel message.  Doing ministry is heavily relational, and requires being involved in people’s lives. But as this passage reminds us, there are seasons to these relationships, and sometimes, those seasons end badly.  There are four examples that I can see from this passage.

First, we have Demas, who appeared to have been in partnership with Paul in his ministry, but his love for the world resulted in him deserting Paul. Second are Titus and Tychicus, who were together with Paul in his ministry, but probably for the sake of the kingdom, have moved on to do ministry elsewhere. Third are Timothy and Mark, who are moving to join with Paul in his ministry. And finally, there’s Luke, who perseveres with Paul through his ministry, appearing to never leave.

In my workplace, over 6 years ago I started a Bible reading group. Initially it was just me. But then a few months later another joined, then another, then after the first year we had five people. These were mostly Christians, with the occasional borderline non-Christian joining. As the months rolled on, people left and others arrived. Overall, I have probably seen about 50 people pass through – people who I have read the Bible and prayed with. Only 1 person has stayed through the whole 6 years. He has been a great encouragement to me, and is someone who continues to wrestle with his faith in light of the world’s pressures.

Let’s pray for the ministry of the gospel everywhere, and that God would enable us to press on in faith and continue to be light to those around us, especially in seasons where relationally things might be tough.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paul is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.