“But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel”. Philippians 2:22

Paul praises the credentials of his protégé Timothy. He has proved himself trustworthy; Paul is ready to announce him publicly to the world. He had been vested in his service and was found faithful. He was sent on complex missions in his youth, yet his determination and purpose never flinched. Those who have remained faithful with the little will be given more to manage.

Two lessons we can draw from this verse:

1. A risky endeavor: we tend to always look at the good side of the pendulum. In this case, Timothy was a good student who followed in his master’s footsteps. Do we realize that Timothy’s mistake will ineluctably taint Paul’s ministry? Paul’s reputation was at stake by making such a strong claim about Timothy. Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold”. Does the mention of your name draw people away or into the kingdom? Does your lifestyle, the way you do business, the way you interact with your colleagues constitute a key or a padlock to the kingdom’s advancement?

2. Ministry of access: on every platform you seek to climb, someone is already seated there. All you need is a pull and an announcement. The greatest challenge of the great, however, is not to raise but rather to remain faithful at the top. In this process of rising to the top, God prunes us through the ministry of the Holy Spirit in order to transform us to be Christ-like.

Similarly, Jesus tested his disciples before launching them into greater missions. His diligence throughout their training and constant feedback paid off after his departure. Jesus trusted their commitment that he allowed them to use his name as a key to solving the world's mystery. Mark 16:17 ‘And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues’. Jesus’ ministry on earth was corroborated with the legacy bestowed to his name. Today believers enjoy the fruits of his sacrifice and achievement that rattles the kingdom of darkness into submission by his name.

Is your name a padlock or a key? Does your life mirror Jesus Christ in a way that makes it attractive to others to launch into this marvelous adventure with you?