Have you every heard of Aristarchus or Secundus? Or Sopater? Or Pyrrhus? Chances are – probably not! But Aristarchus and Secundus from the Greek city of Thessalonica were important partners with the Apostle Paul in his itinerate ministry. And Sopater and Pyrrhus were key workers with Paul from Berea. (Acts 20:1-6)
No one can dispute that the apostle Paul played a foundational role in the establishment of the early church. But Paul never worked alone. Throughout all his writings we catch glimpses of people who came alongside Paul in ministry.
In Acts 20 we read of a small group of seven people that formed Paul’s missionary team there. (v:4) Although we know little or nothing about them, each played an important part in the spreading of the Gospel and the formation of the church throughout that region.
Campus Crusade for Christ used to have a division of their support network called “History’s Handful.” It comprised of a relatively small group of blessed and willing people who came together to do great things for the Kingdom of Heaven. That has been my vision for The Barnabas Group since its inception!
Paul likens the church to a body whose health and effectiveness depend on the proper functioning of all its members (I Corinthians 12). The Holy Spirit of God has given each believer some special blessing or ability that is to be used in the fulfilling of His plan. We are stewards of everything He has given. (I Tim. 6:17-19) Never downplay what God has bestowed upon you. He has blessed you for a reason!
During war time, front line soldiers get all the press. But behind the scenes are many critically important and needed people who keep the front lines effectively equipped. Battles are not won alone!
Throughout my ministry I have been richly blessed by people who have stepped up to partner with me in the work of God. Most of them will never be known to the masses but each are known to God who will one day fully reward them for the important role they have played. (Rev. 20:12; 22:12)
To all those “unknown soldiers” I join with Paul to salute you and say, “Every time I think of you, I thank my God. And whenever I mention you in my prayers, it makes me happy. This is because you have taken part with me in spreading the good news from the first day you heard about it.” (Philippians 1:3-5)
Be blessed my friend.
Glen (Pitts)
The Barnabas Group (Loads of Love)
Colossians 1:1-8; 3:23; I Thessalonians 1:1-10; Romans 10:13-15
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