Naming Names — A LifeWords Devotion

This one of those bits of the Bible that doesn’t get much attention. Almost like an afterthought tacked on to the end of a substantial and occasionally contentious letter. True, it contains no profound theological doctrine, but it does reveal something of great importance. Paul is giving thanks, by name, to certain individuals who have helped him. He is urging others to likewise show their appreciation.

Paul often begins his letters with a general thanksgiving, but this is different. He is naming names. He is getting specific. Despite all his issues with the Corinthians, the letter has ended on a note of gratitude: just as it began. Paul recognises that Christian ministry is not about programmes and plans: it is about people. And those people are not just a mass of humanity who sign up for the programme or plans. They are individuals.

It is one thing to give thanks to God for people in our churches. To say a general thanks to all who serve and contribute. It is another thing to name names, to give a concrete shape to this general appreciation. We need to take that extra step. It is not enough to be generally thankful for others. We need to give names and faces to those others. Thank people individually. Thank them by name. After all, that is how God treats them.

Blessings

David