21 But that you also may know my affairs and how I am doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make all things known to you;
will make all things known to you;
Tychicus served as a messenger to the churches of Asia. He personally carried news about Paul’s duress in jail and information that Paul wanted to communicate other than the contents of the book of Ephesians.
Usually Christians did not use the official mail courier system in Paul’s day. They used individuals to carry the mail personally. A private person could provide added information about Paul’s situation.
Paul did not give a full account of his present estate in jail because Tychicus would do that personally when he arrived in Ephesus.
The Ephesians knew Paul was in prison. They knew his impact on the Roman world, but the Ephesians were exercised about the condition of Paul in jail. Tychicus would allay that concern. He would tell them how he was doing physically, materially, and spiritually
PRINCIPLE:
There is a greatness in inconspicuous service.
APPLICATION:
God uses people who are not conspicuous or spectacular. Tychicus was a man of great importance to the apostle Paul.
Paul never told “religious lies” about his colleagues, describing them as more than what they were. He never exaggerated their accomplishments. However, he gave them their due. He accurately assessed their abilities and qualities. This thumbnail sketch of Tychicus was accurate. He not only was a brother; he was a “beloved brother.” He not only was a minister; he was a “faithful minister.” He not only was a servant; he was a “fellow servant.”
