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When we last look at Acts we saw the way that God uses all kinds of people, and their strengths and weaknesses, without giving up on them, to achieve His purposes. This passage introduces a very active and gifted person called Timothy. Timothy was effective because he had a knowledge of Scripture, the gift of the Holy Spirit and access to the communities that God sent him to reach. We all have access to a communities that need the Gospel. They may be age, culture or otherwise defined, who are particularly equipped to help access God’s Kingdom?
Scripture
Acts 16:1-5 ESV Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. A disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek. [2] He was well spoken of by the brothers at Lystra and Iconium. [3] Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him, and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. [4] As they went on their way through the cities, they delivered to them for observance the decisions that had been reached by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem. [5] So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
Through the Scripture
Following up to strengthen the churches
Paul’s first journey with Barnabus was about two years and covered about 2000kms, his second with Silas was longer around 4500kms over 3 years. The second started with the objective of “seeing how they are”. They were not content to plant churches and run, they returned to care for and encourage them.
Acts 15:36-40 ESV And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” [37] Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. [38] But Paul thought best not to take with them one who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. [39] And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, [40] but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord.
Timothy a son of the first mission journey
In returning to these churches they met with those who had received the Gospel a few years previously. Timothy is specifically mentioned. He was probably from Lystra where Paul was worshipped as a god and then stoned and left for dead. This, the miracle of the lame man healed and especially Paul’s return after the attempted murder may have had a huge impact on Timothy.
Acts 16:1 ESV Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. A disciple was there, named Timothy,
Acts 14:19-21 ESV But Jews came from Antioch and Iconium, and having persuaded the crowds, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead. [20] But when the disciples gathered about him, he rose up and entered the city, and on the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe. [21] When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch,
2 Timothy 1:2-4 ESV To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. [3] I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. [4] As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy.
The gifted son of a Jewish mother and Greek father
Timothy would have been considered Jewish because his mother was Jewish, but he would also have strong connections with the Greeks because of his father. This places him in the perfect position to draw Greeks into the Christian faith. It wasn’t just his particular ethnicity though, he was well taught in the Hebrew Scriptures from a young age but most importantly was later empowered for ministry by the Holy Spirit.
Acts 16:1b ESV the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek.
2 Timothy 1:5 ESV I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.
2 Timothy 1:6-7 ESV For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, [7] for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
Respected in the gentile churches
God formed and developed Timothy to be an effective minister to the Greek churches. He was not just well known, indicating an active presence and ministry throughout the area, but was also respected and accepted by those communities. God had granted him access, and he was enabled to grant access to them.
Acts 16:2 ESV He was well spoken of by the brothers at Lystra and Iconium.
1 Thessalonians 1:1 ESV Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace.
2 Corinthians 1:1 ESV Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God that is at Corinth, with all the saints who are in the whole of Achaia:
Philippians 1:1 ESV Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons:
Timothy circumcised, but not Titus
The Gospel of Jesus is simple, we are saved by faith in Jesus Christ by God’s grace alone. We cannot earn our salvation or prove ourselves worthy. The Gospel is constantly threatened, and it was threatened by those who wanted Christians to be Jews before they could be saved. Titus is proof that Paul never compromised the Gospel teaching in this regard, but Timothy provided a different opportunity. Titus was Greek, but Timothy was a Jew who was also a Greek. Circumcising Timothy gave him access to the Jews as well as the Greeks.
Acts 16:3 ESV Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him, and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek.
Galatians 2:3-5 ESV But even Titus, who was with me, was not forced to be circumcised, though he was a Greek. [4] Yet because of false brothers secretly brought in—who slipped in to spy out our freedom that we have in Christ Jesus, so that they might bring us into slavery— [5] to them we did not yield in submission even for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel might be preserved for you.
Delivering the decision for gentiles
Working with the people that God had called and equipped to help him, Paul went about connecting with the Greeks and holding the door open for them to enter the Kingdom. They taught them and encouraged them to hold to the One Gospel and to live in a way that would keep the door open to Gentiles and Jews, just as the Apostles were led to do in the Jerusalem council.
Acts 16:4 ESV As they went on their way through the cities, they delivered to them for observance the decisions that had been reached by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem.
Acts 15:28-29 ESV For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay on you no greater burden than these requirements: [29] that you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from what has been strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.”
Growing stronger churches
Like the Church in Jerusalem after Pentecost, the gentile churches now grew in faith and numbers. This growth came from the care, encouragement and teaching of people uniquely equipped to minister God’s word to them. They did so in the power of the Holy Spirit using their gifts for His Glory.
Acts 16:5 ESV So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
Acts 6:7 ESV And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.
Daily Devotions : Monday - Following Up to Strengthen
Today's Verse: And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” (Acts 15:36)
Reflection: The ministry of Jesus did not end when He ascended into heaven; it transitioned to the ministry of the Holy Spirit through His disciples. This transition involves change and growth, which often pushes us out of our comfort zones. Paul's desire to return and visit the new believers shows a heart that mirrors Jesus's own shepherd heart. He wasn't content to simply plant churches and move on; he felt a deep responsibility to care for, encourage, and strengthen them in their faith. This follow-up care is crucial for spiritual growth. Just as Jesus continually nurtures His followers, we are called to be concerned for the spiritual well-being of fellow believers, moving beyond our comfort to ensure they are strengthened and growing in their relationship with God. True discipleship involves not just proclaiming the word, but also persevering in love and care for the flock.
Additional Scripture:
Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. A disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek. (Acts 16:1)
Life Application: Consider the people in your life who you have shared the Gospel with or who are new in their faith. How can you intentionally follow up with them this week? It could be a simple message, a phone call, or meeting up to see how they are doing. Don't just "plant and run"; ask God to give you a shepherd's heart to nurture and encourage others in their journey with Jesus, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone.
Prayer points:
Ask God to give you a greater love and concern for the spiritual well-being of other believers.
Pray for opportunities to encourage and strengthen someone in their faith this week.
Pray for the willingness to step out of your comfort zone to minister to others.
Tuesday - A Disciple Made Through Faithfulness
Today's Verse: Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. A disciple was there, named Timothy... (Acts 16:1a)
Reflection: Timothy's story begins with a simple description: he was "a disciple". This identity was the fruit of a previous mission. When Paul and Barnabas first preached in Lystra, they faced both miracles and violent opposition, including Paul being stoned and left for dead. Yet, they faithfully proclaimed the Gospel. Timothy was a result of that faithfulness. He may have witnessed the healing of the lame man, the stoning of Paul, and Paul's miraculous recovery. These powerful events, coupled with the preaching of the Gospel, led him to Jesus. Timothy's conversion is a powerful reminder that our faithful witness, even amidst suffering, can have an eternal impact on others. Jesus promised that His word would bear fruit, and Timothy is living proof of this. Paul later called Timothy his "beloved child", showing the deep, discipling relationship that grew from this initial seed of faith.
Additional Scripture:
But Jews came from Antioch and Iconium, and having persuaded the crowds, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead. But when the disciples gathered about him, he rose up and entered the city, and on the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe. (Acts 14:19-20)
To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. (2 Timothy 1:2)
Life Application: Reflect on your own journey to faith. Who was the "Paul" in your life who faithfully shared the Gospel with you? Take a moment to thank God for them. Consider how your own faithfulness in sharing your testimony, even in difficult circumstances, could be the seed that God uses to raise up a "Timothy" for His Kingdom.
Prayer points:
Thank God for the people who faithfully shared the Gospel with you.
Pray for courage to be a faithful witness for Jesus, trusting that He will produce fruit from your efforts.
Ask God to open your eyes to the "Timothys" around you who may be impacted by your life and testimony.
Wednesday - The Power of a Godly Heritage
Today's Verse: ...the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek. (Acts 16:1b)
Reflection: Timothy was uniquely positioned for ministry because of his mixed heritage. Being the son of a Jewish mother, he was considered a Jew and would have been taught the Hebrew Scriptures from a young age. This foundation in God's Word was vital. Paul highlights this godly lineage, mentioning the "sincere faith" that dwelt first in Timothy's grandmother Lois, then in his mother Eunice, and finally in him. This is a beautiful picture of faith being passed down through generations. Nothing is more incredible than introducing a child or grandchild to Jesus. Timothy's Greek father also gave him a natural connection to the Gentile world. God used this specific family background to prepare Timothy for a unique ministry that could bridge two distinct cultures, showing how Jesus breaks down the dividing walls between peoples.
Additional Scripture:
I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. (2 Timothy 1:5)
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. (2 Timothy 1:6-7)
Life Application: What spiritual heritage have you received? Thank God for the family members or mentors who taught you about Him. How are you passing on that legacy of faith to the next generation—your children, grandchildren, or younger believers in your community? Your role in discipling others is a phenomenal privilege. Also, consider your own unique background and cultural connections. How might God be wanting to use your specific life story to give you access to a community that needs to hear about Jesus?
Prayer points:
Thank God for the spiritual heritage you have received.
Pray for wisdom and diligence in passing on your faith to the next generation.
Ask God to show you how He can use your unique background and experiences for His glory.
Thursday - A Reputation That Grants Access
Today's Verse: He was well spoken of by the brothers at Lystra and Iconium. (Acts 16:2)
Reflection: Timothy didn't just have a private faith; he had a public reputation that reflected his relationship with Jesus. To be "well spoken of" by believers in two different cities, which were a day's walk apart, indicates that he was actively involved in ministry and fellowship. His character and conduct were consistent with the Gospel he professed. This respect wasn't just about being nice; it was about living a life that honoured Christ, which in turn gave him credibility and access within the Christian community. God had granted him access, and his godly character maintained it. This enabled him to be a co-worker with Paul in significant ministries across many churches. A good reputation built on a foundation of Christ-like character is a powerful tool for the Kingdom, opening doors for ministry that might otherwise remain closed.
Additional Scripture:
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. (1 Thessalonians 1:1)
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God that is at Corinth, with all the saints who are in the whole of Achaia: (2 Corinthians 1:1)
Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: (Philippians 1:1)
Life Application: What is your reputation among fellow believers and in your community? Does your life reflect the teachings of Jesus? A godly reputation is built one choice at a time—through integrity, love, and service. Pray that your actions and words would be so consistent with your faith that others would speak well of you, not for your own glory, but for the glory of God, thus opening doors for you to share the Gospel.
Prayer points:
Pray that your life would be a consistent testimony to the grace and truth of Jesus.
Ask God to help you build a reputation that brings Him honour.
Pray that your character would open doors for you to minister effectively in the communities God has placed you in.
Friday - Cultural Flexibility for the Gospel's Sake
Today's Verse: Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him, and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. (Acts 16:3)
Reflection: This verse presents a challenge: why would Paul circumcise Timothy right after fighting for the principle that Gentiles did not need to be circumcised to be saved? The answer lies in the unwavering priority of the Gospel. The Gospel message is that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Paul would never compromise this truth. With Titus, a Greek, Paul refused circumcision because it was being demanded as a requirement for salvation. However, Timothy was different. As the son of a Jewish mother, the Jews considered him a Jew. To remain uncircumcised would have made him an apostate in their eyes, immediately closing the door for him to minister among them. Paul's decision was not about salvation; it was about access. He made a culturally sensitive choice to remove a barrier, enabling Timothy to freely share the Gospel with both Jews and Gentiles. It was a selfless act, demonstrating a willingness to become "all things to all people" for the sake of winning some for Christ.
Additional Scripture:
But even Titus, who was with me, was not forced to be circumcised, though he was a Greek. Yet because of false brothers secretly brought in—who slipped in to spy out our freedom that we have in Christ Jesus, so that they might bring us into slavery— to them we did not yield in submission even for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel might be preserved for you. (Galatians 2:3-5)
Life Application: Are there areas in your life where you can be culturally flexible for the sake of the Gospel? This doesn't mean compromising God's law, but it may mean setting aside personal preferences, traditions, or cultural norms that could be a barrier to someone hearing about Jesus. Ask yourself: "Is this a biblical command, or is it a personal or cultural preference?" Be willing to lay down your "rights" and comforts to remove obstacles and open doors for the Gospel.
Prayer points:
Ask God for wisdom to distinguish between biblical truth and cultural preference.
Pray for a selfless heart that is willing to adapt for the sake of sharing the Gospel.
Ask the Holy Spirit to show you any barriers your own attitudes or actions may be creating for others to come to Jesus.
Saturday - Delivering Truth That Unites
Today's Verse: As they went on their way through the cities, they delivered to them for observance the decisions that had been reached by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem. (Acts 16:4)
Reflection: Having equipped their team, Paul and his companions went out with a specific mission: to deliver the life-giving truth of the Gospel and the unifying decisions of the Jerusalem Council. False teaching had come in, telling Gentiles they had to follow Jewish law to be saved, which threatened to tear the church apart. The apostolic decision clarified the truth: salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus, not by works of the law. The few requirements given to the Gentiles were not for salvation, but were designed to promote harmony and mutual respect between Jewish and Gentile believers. They were practical steps to keep the community united. This ministry was about building up the church by teaching sound doctrine and fostering unity. By delivering this message, Paul, Silas, and Timothy were ensuring that the doors of the Kingdom remained wide open for everyone, without the burden of man-made rules, so that Jew and Gentile could worship together as one family in Christ.
Additional Scripture:
For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay on you no greater burden than these requirements: that you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from what has been strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.” (Acts 15:28-29)
Life Application: We are all called to be messengers of truth. This means knowing the core truths of the Gospel for ourselves so we can share them clearly. It also means actively promoting unity within the church. In your conversations and relationships, do you build bridges or walls? Strive to be someone who, like Paul, delivers grace and truth in a way that strengthens fellow believers and maintains the unity of the Spirit.
Prayer points:
Pray for a deeper understanding of the Gospel so that you can share it clearly and faithfully.
Ask God to make you a peacemaker and a unifier within your church community.
Pray for your church leaders as they seek to teach sound doctrine and protect the flock from false teaching.
Sunday - Strengthened in Faith, Increasing in Number
Today's Verse: So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily. (Acts 16:5)
Reflection: This verse reveals the beautiful result of faithful ministry. When the church is taught the true Gospel, cared for by dedicated leaders, and united in purpose, two things happen: it grows deeper and it grows wider. First, the churches were "strengthened in the faith". This speaks of spiritual maturity, a deepening of trust and understanding in Jesus. Second, they "increased in numbers daily". This is the natural outcome of a healthy, vibrant church that is actively living out its faith and using its God-given access to reach its community. This pattern echoes the growth of the early church in Jerusalem after Pentecost. God achieves this growth by using people like Timothy—people who know His Word, are empowered by His Spirit, and are active in the communities He has placed them in. When believers are equipped and mobilised, the church becomes a powerful force for the Kingdom, growing in both spiritual health and evangelistic fruitfulness.
Additional Scripture:
And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith. (Acts 6:7)
Life Application: Are you contributing to the strengthening of your church? This can be done through prayer, encouragement, serving, and studying God's Word. Are you also contributing to its increase in numbers? This happens as you use the unique access God has given you—in your family, workplace, or hobbies—to be a "human magnet," connecting people to yourself and, through you, to the church and to Jesus. We need three things for this: knowledge of the Word, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the access God has already given us.
Prayer points:
Pray that your church would be strengthened in its faith and love for Jesus.
Ask God to empower you by His Holy Spirit to use your access to your community for the Gospel.
Pray for a fresh hunger for God's Word, so that you can be equipped to make disciples.