In an article called “Addicted” we wrote that the family of Stephanas was “devoted to the ministry of the saints,” (1 Cor. 16:15). We also noted that Paul encouraged others to “Please follow their instructions and do everything you can to help them, as well as all others like them, who work hard at your side with such real devotion,” (1 Cor. 16:16, TLB).
Paul speaks of “all others like them.” That is to say others like Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus. He who is addicted to toiling for the gain of others deserves to be assisted. It is proper to praise and assist a brother who is addicted to good works. Let’s mention some of them.
The woman who anointed Jesus with a flask of pure nard while he was at Simon the leper’s house is still talked about to this day, (Mark 14:3-9).
Dorcus is still praised for making “tunics and garments for the widows,” (Acts 9:39). The brethren gave witness of Gaius’ aid to the church testifying to John that Gaius does “faithfully whatever he does for the brethren and for strangers,” (3 John 5-6).
We read that Phoebe was a “servant of the church,” for doing what her righteous work allowed her, as a woman, to do. Paul called for the brethren at Rome to “receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you,” (Rom. 16:1).
We must consider Timothy’s devoted labor of faithfulness. It is said of him that there is “no one like-minded, who will really care for your state,” (Phil. 2:20).
Then there was Barnabas who “having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet for the poor saints,” (Acts 4:37). Can you see that?
Remember Apostle Paul says, “Help them.” My friends, the work is easy to find, just look around you. Surely, someone has a need you can fill. It may be as simple as giving a drink of cold water to a weary saint. It may be as easy as lending an ear or a shoulder to a troubled Christian. Try it, you will like it. It is the right thing to do.