2 “I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.”
“I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche”
The Bible does not reveal much about Euodia and Syntyche. We do not know the circumstance that led to such division in the church. Let us build an imaginary case based on their names.
“I implore Euodia”
The name “Euodia” comes from two Greek words. “Eu” means “good,” and “odia” means “road.” Her name means “good road” or “prosperous journey.” If she lived up to her name, she was someone who had “arrived.” She was successful. Maybe she was a successful saleswoman! No doubt she was always on time. She arrived at her appointments at least 15 minutes before the appointed time. She probably wore clothes with somber shades, tailored but no frills. She moderately applied makeup. She came to work with a business mentality. She was logical. Her personality was probably on the intense side. She was serious with very little humor. Euodia was a very efficient and competent woman.
“and I implore Syntyche”
“Syntyche” comes from two Greek words, “together with” and “chance.” Her name means “pleasant acquaintance” or “a meeting by happy chance.” If she had lived up to her name, she would be known as a good mixer. She flitted from one social event to another. She made friends easily. She pushed the parties. Her dress was in frills and finery. “Neman Markups” was her choice place for shopping. She wore satin and silks. She was a social creature.
Euodia regarded Syntyche as a social butterfly. Syntyche looked down her nose at Euodia as too efficient and ambitious. Euodia regarded Syntyche as not having a brain in her head. Harry Ironside calls them “Odious” and “Soontouchy”!
PRINCIPLE:
Preference is no basis for schism.
APPLICATION:
Do you have antagonism toward someone? Is there someone in your purview whom you cannot stand? Every time you think of this person, “sour grapes” settles over your soul. Every time we exercise bitterness, we injure our soul. This is self-induced misery. We dedicate ourselves upon the altar of perpetual misery. Desire to hurt someone with our bitterness does nothing but hurt ourselves. We hurt ourselves far more than we hurt them.
