2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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COMMENDATION FOR A MAN OF GOD
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29
3 John 12
Titus 1:5-9
“… that he may be able by sound doctrine
both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”
COMMENDATION FOR A MAN OF GOD
In contrast to Diotrephes, Demetrius was a good man. The qualities of a man of God are shown in his testimony. One of the requirements that Paul listed for an overseer of the church was that he must have a good report of them that are without; lest he fall into reproach and snare of the devil. Demetrius was such a person. He had a good personal testimony.
The Apostles were able to identify among the disciples those who could be entrusted responsibilities in the church. In the case of Timothy, Paul met him in his journey to Derbe and Lystra and it is testified of him that he was well reported by the brethren that were in Lystra and Iconium and Paul took him into his evangelistic band (Acts 16:1-3). The testimony of Demetrius was pleasing to John. His faith also was doctrinally sound. John said that he had a testimony of the truth itself. He was the right person to be entrusted with the care of the church. He was truthful and lived an upright life.
John also confirmed his suitability to carry out church duties. He made a good companion of Gaius and they were able to carry on the witness of the gospel. The place of their service is not indicated in the letter but it is believed to be in parts of Asia Minor where John served then.
F.B. Meyer applied the character of Demetrius thus: “The Christian must always act worthily of God, especially toward strangers, vv5-6. ‘For the sake of the Name,’ v7, - as children we must maintain the family honor. Such hospitality makes us fellow-workers with the truth. There is a Boanergic touch in v10. The threefold witness to Demetrius should stir our desire to emulate his character. What will it not be when the dimness of earthly converse is exchanged for the face-to-face intercourse of eternity! v14.”
THOUGHT: “A good name is rather to be chosen than riches …”
PRAYER: Lord, make me a worthy servant in Thy house.