Paul was thrilled to claim Timothy as his son in the faith. I can imagine that Timothy was just as thrilled to have Paul as a spiritual father.
Both had a perspective of their relationship:
Paul
- Timothy was young and could be relied on.
- Timothy could check on the churches while Paul was under arrest.
- Paul could trust Timothy.
- Paul knew Timothy would handle problems/situations just like him.
- Timothy had proven his character.
- Timothy would take care of the churches just like Paul would.
Timothy
- He had witnessed the highs and lows of ministry.
- He witnessed the miracles in Paul's ministry.
- He felt the love of his spiritual father.
Paul & Timothy serve to me as a model of "ministry mentorship" through their relationship. I guess that's why to this day we consider young men & women as "young Timothy's."
Relationships in ministry are vital! I realize that not everyone will be your "best friend" - however, we must place value on all the relationships God affords us.
I have practiced this model for many years now:
- Paul you're following
- Barnabas you're walking beside
- Timothy you're leading
Identifying my relationships in these three categories has brought clarity to each relationship.
I am also learning to adopt the following Five Levels of Relationship in my life, based on the relationships of Jesus & Moses:
Jesus
- One - John the beloved
- Three - Peter, James & John
- Twelve - Disciples
- Seventy - Sent two by two
- Multitude - Showed up everywhere He went
Moses
- One - Joshua
- Three - Joshua, Aaron, Hur
- Twelve - 12 Tribes
- Seventy - Elders
- Multitude - a multitude came out of Egypt
My thoughts on this wonderful Wednesday....
Russell
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