1. For everyone looks out for his own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.

3.  There are a few people in Scripture who seem to shine more brightly than others  Two of these, in this case men, are praised by Paul in glowing terms of appreciation.  The qualities these men exhibited are excellent qualities to be lived by all Christians.  Today, let’s consider these two men and see how their lives can encourage us to live excellent lives in the name of Christ

4. TIMOTHY Acts 16:1 -- He came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was a Jewess and a believer, but whose father was a Greek.

5. Romans 16:21 -- Timothy, my fellow worker, sends his greetings to you, as do Lucius, Jason and Sosipater, my relatives. 2 Timothy 1:5 -- I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.

6.  Mentioned only in Philippians 2:25 and 4:18  Was a citizen of Philippi and the church there  Not to be confused with Epaphras in Colossae  Chosen to bring a mercy gift to Paul.

7.  They share many qualities in common  LOYALTY – shown in their dedication to Christ and to Paul  DEPENDABILITY – Paul knew he could trust in them wherever he sent them  GODLINESS – They both exhibit outstanding godly characteristics  DEVOTION – even to the point of sickness and near death.

8.  Brother  Co-worker  Servant (DOULOS – only ever used by Paul of himself, Timothy and Epaphroditus [though Onesimus is called “more than a slave] in Philemon).  Son  Fellow soldier

9.  Clearly these are outstanding men.  They stand as worthy role models for us Christians.  Their characters are admirable.  May we each be as valuable to Christ as were these two good men!