What are you devoted to?
I have been considering the act of devotion for some weeks now and was intrigued today with these verses.
“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love. I urge you, brethren – you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints”. 1 Corinthians 16:13-15
ASV puts it this way, “and that they have set themselves to minister unto the saints”. Here is a mind, set and purposeful to care for others.
Strong’s concordance says, devoted is to arrange in an orderly manner, i.e. assign or dispose (to a certain position or lot).
These dear Christians in the household of Stephanas, had arranged themselves in an orderly manner, for the ministry of the saints. Wow! They made sure to give time and energy to the ministry or service of other Christians. Isn’t that beautiful? Wouldn’t we all love to have them around us?
Also, with great urgency, Paul encourages us to be like the house of Stephanas. Stephanas was a Christian convert to the faith and his name means “crowned”. Often times a name speaks to the condition, need or status of a family. It is possible that he was a man of wealth or authority. How encouraging it is to think that his whole household, maybe family and servants were devoted to the Christians in their local church.
It makes me think of John 13:4-13, where Jesus rose from supper, laid aside His garments, took a towel, girded Himself and began to wash the feet of His disciples.
Being the Son of God, the One who had all authority (v3), did not keep Him from the lowly work of cleaning the feet of the ones He loved. He would soon be going to the cross, yet His greatest concern was not for Himself, but for those He loved. He purposely made time to show them His devotion for them, without concern for Himself.
“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.
Let us be devoted to each other in our local churches. What can you do today to show how much you love and care for them and for our Lord?