So very often I come across families who have given their whole lives to the Lord and His Church. It isn’t just one generation but throughout the generations. I was privileged to lead the funeral service for a retired minister’s wife this week. Frances Dyson was married to Colin who Pastored the Church that his daughter now Pastors and whose 3 sons are also committed into serving different churches as well as the same one as their grandparents. Wholehearted commitment from one family to the Kingdom of God.
It would be easy to overlook these final verses of the letter to the Corinthians Church. If we do, we miss some important truths.
“You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord’s people. I urge you, brothers and sisters, 16 to submit to such people and to everyone who joins in the work and labours at it. 17 I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you. 18 For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.” (1 Corinthians 16 v 15-18)
This family were the first converts in that Greek region. They were ‘devoted’. It is the sense that this is more than just volunteering to help the Church but that they were wholeheartedly committed to it. But who were they? Did they have a title? It didn’t seem to matter. They didn’t need one they just met the needs of the people.
It is remarkable that Paul tasks the Church to submit to such people. He is not saying submit to the apostles and the prophets etc. But he is saying those who serve with wholehearted commitment need submitting to. This isn’t based on title or social status or a formal appointment. It is based on the fact that devoted people look like Jesus. Christian Leadership emerges from service not the other way round.
These verses show us that wholehearted commitment in serving others is the hallmark for what calling truly is. It is for every believer and it needs to be acknowledged. When it is in place then it is the spiritual refreshing that many need, even Paul. It is a deep restoration and comfort by simply being present.
If your Church has these people then acknowledge them and thank God for them. If you are one of them, well done, keep going, we need you!
Missions Paul 