Slideshow image

Sermon Title: Refreshing Those Who We Are Thankful For
Bible Text: 2 Timothy 1:16–17

Introduction:
Most scholars believe 2 Timothy contains the final writings of the Apostle Paul, penned during his last days in a Roman prison where he would eventually give his life for the gospel. Many believers abandoned Paul during his imprisonment; he laments that Demas forsook him, and at his first hearing, according to 2 Timothy 4:16, no one came as a character witness.

Yet, Paul had a friend who stood with him through it all: Onesiphorus. In 2 Timothy 1:16, Paul describes how Onesiphorus "often refreshed" him. This is a powerful example of the ministry of refreshing others—showing consistent care, support, and encouragement.

Point 1: The Ministry of Refreshing (2 Timothy 1:16–17)

  • Paul says Onesiphorus “often refreshed” him. This was not a one-time gesture or accidental act—it was a habit.

  • Refreshing someone takes intentionality. It requires thought and effort to consistently encourage, support, and uplift another person.

  • Consider how much Paul’s ministry has blessed us: through the Gentiles, through the study of the Bible, through the structure of our churches. But Paul’s impact may have been even greater because of faithful friends like Onesiphorus.

  • Not everyone can preach, teach, sing, or play an instrument, but everyone can refresh someone. Everyone has the ability to encourage and strengthen another person’s life or ministry.

Point 2: Men Who Refreshed Paul

  • Onesiphorus: 2 Timothy 1:16–17 shows he associated himself with Paul’s chains, entering into Paul’s struggles and offering comfort and encouragement.

  • Titus: 2 Corinthians 7:6 shows that Titus brought refreshing not only to Paul but also to the church in Corinth. Sometimes, just showing up, being present, and listening is the greatest refreshment you can offer.

  • Philemon: Philemon 1:7 illustrates refreshing through joy and consolation. While we may not remove someone’s burdens, we can bring comfort to troubled hearts.

  • Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus: 1 Corinthians 16:17–18 demonstrates that God sends people to fill gaps and refresh us, some for a short season and some for a lifetime.

  • Luke: 2 Timothy 4:11 shows that simply being present and listening is a refreshing ministry. Like Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet (Luke 10:39–42), sometimes the best way to refresh is simply to be there and listen.

Point 3: The Means of Refreshing
There are practical ways to refresh others:

  1. Prayer – The most powerful refreshment begins with prayer. We cannot do more until we pray.

  2. Our Pen – A note, card, or text expressing appreciation goes a long way.

  3. Our Purse – Even small gifts, given thoughtfully, can refresh someone.

  4. Our Presence – Being physically and emotionally present, listening, and offering a shoulder when someone is struggling is often the most meaningful refreshment.

Point 4: The Model of Refreshing

  • Refresh others without expecting anything in return. God’s principle of sowing and reaping is faithful (Luke 6:38). “Mete” means to measure out, give, or distribute. God will measure out blessings back to you.

  • Receiving refreshment is just as important as giving it. If we refuse to accept encouragement, we also deny others the blessing of giving.

  • Ask yourself: Who can you refresh this week? This holiday season?

  • Dr. Benny Tate reminds us: “You don’t have to be rich to be generous; you just have to be generous.” Refreshing others doesn’t have to be expensive—it just has to be intentional.

Closing:
Mark 9:41 reminds us that even giving someone a cup of water in the Lord’s name will not go unnoticed by God. Let us commit to intentionally refreshing those around us—through prayer, presence, encouragement, and love—so that the body of Christ can be strengthened, encouraged, and filled with joy.