Topical Encyclopedia
Tychicus is a notable figure in the New Testament, recognized for his zealous service and dedication to the early Christian church. His name, meaning "fortunate" or "fateful," is mentioned several times in the Pauline Epistles, highlighting his role as a trusted companion and emissary of the Apostle Paul.
Biblical References and RoleTychicus first appears in
Acts 20:4, where he is listed among the companions of Paul during his third missionary journey. The passage states, "He was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica, Gaius from Derbe, Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus from the province of Asia" . This inclusion indicates Tychicus's early involvement in the missionary activities of the nascent church.
In
Ephesians 6:21-22, Paul refers to Tychicus as "a beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord," tasked with delivering the letter to the Ephesians and providing them with news about Paul's circumstances. Paul writes, "Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know about me. I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that you may know about us, and that he may encourage your hearts" . This passage underscores Tychicus's reliability and his role as a bearer of encouragement to the believers.
Similarly, in
Colossians 4:7-8, Tychicus is again described as a "beloved brother, a faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord." Paul entrusts him with the responsibility of informing the Colossian church about his situation, stating, "Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a beloved brother, a faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know about us, and that he may encourage your hearts" . This repetition of his mission to encourage and inform highlights his vital role in maintaining communication and unity among the early Christian communities.
In
Titus 3:12, Paul expresses his intention to send either Artemas or Tychicus to Titus, indicating Tychicus's continued involvement in the ministry and his capability to oversee church matters in Crete. This further demonstrates Paul's trust in Tychicus's leadership and spiritual maturity.
Character and LegacyTychicus's character is marked by his unwavering faithfulness and dedication to the work of the Lord. His repeated mention as a "beloved brother" and "faithful servant" reflects the high regard in which he was held by Paul and the early church. His willingness to travel and serve in various capacities, often in challenging circumstances, exemplifies his zeal for the Gospel and his commitment to the mission of the church.
Tychicus's legacy is one of steadfast service and encouragement. As a trusted emissary, he played a crucial role in the dissemination of Paul's letters, which form a significant portion of the New Testament. His efforts in fostering communication and unity among the early Christian communities contributed to the growth and strengthening of the church during its formative years.
In summary, Tychicus stands as a model of zealous Christian ministry, characterized by his faithfulness, reliability, and dedication to the cause of Christ. His life and service continue to inspire believers to pursue their calling with fervor and commitment.
Nave's Topical Index
Colossians 4:7All my state shall Tychicus declare to you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord:
Nave's Topical Index
Library
The Epistle to Philemon.
... is addressed to Philemon, a zealous Christian at Colossae ... a penitent, in company
with Tychicus, the bearer ... time a "fellow-soldier," a Christian minister), and a ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 98 the epistle to.htm
Paul's Last Letter
... And as he advances in the Christian pathway he becomes ... This solemn charge to one
so zealous and faithful ... and responsibility of the work of the gospel minister. ...
/.../white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 49 pauls last letter.htm
Paul's Epistles; his Collection for the Poor Saints at Jerusalem ...
... these, the letter to Philemon, a Christian of Colosse ... greatly recommended himself
as a zealous and trustworthy ... beloved brother and a faithful minister and fellow ...
/.../killen/the ancient church/chapter ix pauls epistles his.htm
Ephesians vi. 14-17
... Tychicus, the beloved brother, and faithful minister in the ... to the consciousness
of the Christian.--Meyer and ... no wonder the Tractarians were zealous in giving ...
/.../homily xxiv ephesians vi 14-17.htm
Resources
Who was C. I. Scofield? | GotQuestions.orgDoes 2 Chronicles 5:14 teach slaying in the Spirit? | GotQuestions.orgIs the distinction between clergy and laity biblical? | GotQuestions.orgMinister: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus