ASSEMBLY YOUTH

Paul's Travelling Companions
Tychicus		 John Riddle

A) Tychicus, v7-8

Tychicus is mentioned in four other places in the New Testament, but without comment apart from the parallel passage in Ephesians 6: 21. He is described as "a beloeved brother, and faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord." This speaks volumes, Tychicus was not only respected for his loyalty to the truth: he was 'esteemed very highly in love', 1 Thessalonians 5: 13. His faithful ministry had not made him a hard dogmatist who stood alone and aloof. There was a warmth and atractiveness in his character which drew love and affection of those who knew him.

Tychicus too must have been a tonic to other Christians. "Whom I have sent unto you ... that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts." (Note RV here: 'that ye might know our estate', which seems better in context). The sense of "comfort" is 'encourage.' Tychicus was evidently an inspiration and encouragement to his brethren in Christ. The Colossians, faced with false teaching, would benefit from his visit, and be better equipped to combat error as a result. How much of a tonic are we to each other: or are we more like 'wet blankets?' Rememeber what happened at Kadesh-barnea, Deutronomy 1: 28.

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