Alone 2 Timothy 1:15-18.
You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes. May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, But when he arrived in Rome he searched for me earnestly and found me -May the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that Day! – and you will know all the service he rendered at Ephesus.
Dear Family,
Here, Paul gives us a glimpse of the loneliness that at times gripped him. The commitment to serve the Lord can at times mean that one has to stand alone.
Forsaken (v. 15). It is not clear from the context why Paul, who is in Rome, speaks of being forsaken by those in Asia, except that Timothy is in Asia (that is where Ephesus was located) and Paul may be cautioning him against trusting some of the people around him. Two are mentioned by name, most probably because they would have been close to Paul and therefore their betrayal was all the more painful, but also to warn Timothy not to trust them.
Faithful (v. 16). But not all had abandoned Paul. Onesiphorus was not only unashamed of Paul’s prisoner status, he “often refreshed” Paul, probably through engaging conversations during his visits to Paul in prison. That Paul speaks of mercy to his family may be an indication that Onesiphorus was dead already.
Found (v. 17). Onesiphorus had searched for Paul until he found him. This was no easy task, as Paul was not in a position to send a “Google pin” and indiscreet inquiries would have brought one face to face with danger, as Paul was considered both a criminal and a member of a dangerous cult.
Favor (v. 18). Paul wishes Onesiphorus God’s mercy “on that day,” meaning the day of the Lord’s return and of judgment. This is more a statement in the form of a wish because there is no doubt that those who serve God and his servants will find favor with God. Onesiphorus had distinguished himself as a faithful servant even before, while still at Ephesus. What would be written of you in a similar situation?
Your Loving Pastor Chris.