2Co 8:22-24 “And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you. Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ. Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.”
Paul has already commended to the church at Corinth an anonymous brother traveling with Titus. This brother has been described in terms that cause us to consider him a faithful and able minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. From Paul’s words, we get the picture of a brother who is very zealous of sharing the word of truth with God’s people and distributing to their needs.
In verse twenty-two, Paul introduces another brother who is not identified by name. However, Paul is careful to make sure the church receives this brother also. He begins by assuring them that this brother is coming as Paul’s urging (“we have sent”). Furthermore, Paul tells the church that this man is not just a passing acquaintance. He has apparently been in Paul’s company often.
In every instance of Paul’s interaction with this brother, he has proved to be diligent in many things. Since Paul does not dwell on this brother’s ability as a preacher of the gospel, it is not clear whether he was a minister in that since. What is clear is that he was a faithful minister in the capacity that he filled.
He may have been one of those that succored Paul in his many times of imprisonment. Perhaps he was often tasked with helping to distribute alms to God’s people such as the churches of Macedonia had collected (2nd Corinthians 8:1-4). It is obvious that whatever he laid his and to, he performed it with all his might (Ecclesiastes 9:10). He was also excited about the opportunity to minister to the saints at Corinth (“now much more diligent”).
Paul finishes this section by assuring the saints at Corinth that Titus and those who are accompanying him have the highest regard for the glory of Jesus Christ. Their concern is to edify and do good to the churches. They are commended not only by Paul but by the other churches in the region. Paul finishes with a charge to the church at Corinth to demonstrate to these brothers the love of Christ as he has assured them they are capable of.
As ministers of the grace of God, we as individuals and churches need to be diligent about telling others of the faithfulness of His servants that have labored with us. Especially if a brother or sister is being led into a new area where they may not be well known, it can be a very special blessing to them and an encouragement to others to have a word of commendation given. It is equally important that any word of commendation point to the care that these have for the churches and for the truth of Christ.
May we encourage each other concerning the gifts we have witnessed in others in a way that points to Christ, so that we may never be accused of being a respecter of persons!
