THE HARMED APOSTLE

Christian ministry is no less a walk in the minefield, and nothing short of walking the razor’s edge. We find what the apostle Paul says to young Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:14-16, a very important read. Paul says, 
“14 Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. May the Lord repay him according to his works. 15 You also must beware of him, for he has greatly resisted our words. 16 At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them.” – 2 Timothy 4:14-16

– Alexander the coppersmith did much harm, to the LORD’s work, and His kingdom.
– We find many such people in the Churches and Christian organisations, even today. They are the proverbial weeds in the wheat.

Then Paul goes on to suggest to the young minister about such people.
– The LORD will deal with such people. Letting such people go, will release the godly to use their energies for constructive purposes, than trying to defeat such a harmful person.
– Beware such people is Paul’s advise to Timothy, and to us too.

Sadly, many who knew Paul, not only were they silent, but were also suspicious about him, therefore they stood away from Paul.
– The lies are sweet, and easy to believe, hence people chose not to stand with Paul. Ministry is a brutally tough place.
Paul, with all his experience, advises the young man…
– Be magnanimous towards such people – not very easy at times. What Paul says is right, and is the wise thing to do.

Lessons for us today. Let us be considerate, supportive and appreciative towards godly and god-fearing servants of God. Secondly, make every effort to identify and weed out the harmful people, through checks and balances. Thirdly, there may be times when we can’t do anything about such people. Fourthly, it is always good to leave such people to God. He will take care of them, in His time. Lastly, the good people may become spectators, and may not stand with the truth. Be magnanimous towards such, and let it go.

May the LORD help us to serve Him well.