Acts 16:1-5 Timothy Joins Paul and Silas

Paul, in his second missionary trip, sets out with Silas and he encounters a young man called Timothy who was well recommended by the brethren and he asks him to accompany him on the journey. Here is again the principle of working in triads with at least one of them being an apprentice. There is great value in having an apprentice to come along for the journey. During the first trip it was John Mark, who left them shortly after beginning.

An interesting fact about Timothy is that he was half Greek. Paul knew that taking an uncircumcised Greek along with him would make it very difficult for him to be heard by the Jews, so he decided to circumcise him. The reason Timothy's uncircumcision would be a hindrance is because the Jews knew his family. Though the Jerusalem Council voted against requiring Gentiles to circumcise, Paul does it anyway for Timothy. Here is a very important principle that Paul applied throughout his missionary career: He minimized even the possible stumbling blocks to the Gospel. What are the stumbling blocks in my way to share the Gospel with others? Am I willing to address them and get them out of the way?

The decisions made at the Jerusalem Council were communicated by Paul's team to the churches. It would be reasonable to assume that Barnabas' team would do the same. There is a unity among the churches in teaching directed by the apostles in Jerusalem. The Antioch Church is acting as a mother to the churches planted in the area, but the Council in Jerusalem is the definitive voice concerning doctrine. There are many similarities with our current denominational structure today. Denominational loyalties are important because they keep us accountable for sound doctrine.

The solidarity of the churches in doctrine kept them growing in numbers as well as in faith. Nothing is more important to the church than to have a solid doctrinal foundation upon which to build all other programs. How well do I know the foundational doctrines of my faith? How much time have I devoted to understand the teachings of Christ and the Apostles? My commitment to these teachings will determine my growth and strength in the faith.

Father, fill me with wisdom to understand the basic, foundational truths of the Gospel. Help me be a mentor to those around me who are younger and can carry the torch in the future. Teach me to overcome the obstacles to be able to communicate the Gospel of your kingdom. Amen.