Through Silvanus, our faithful brother (for so
I regard him), I have written
to you briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God.
Stand firm in it! (1 Peter 5:12)
It is easy to read over the names mentioned in the Bible
while we search for spiritual truths, physical facts or theological information
and fail to recognize the significance of a specific individual. Peter closes his letter with "Through
Silvanus, our faithful brother (for so I regard him)."
The mention of this name seems so very insignificant. No book
is named after him and no real attention is afforded him as is others. Yet, here is a very significant statement by
Peter regarding a man who he expects the readers will know. He must have been a powerful and influential
man to these believers.
Sometimes we forget that churches are not made up primarily of
the vocal few but the quiet and effective faithful. This is who Silvanus represents. Powerful churches are not the product of
powerful preachers and staff members.
They are what they are because of those who Elton Trueblood calls the
“company of the committed.” Laypersons
who are responsible to carry out their calling as a part of the body of Christ.
We know this man better by the name of "Silas". Though not an apostle or disciple he was a
special part of the formation of the early church. We best remember him for what is told in Acts 15-16.
Silvanus (Silas) was chosen by the early church to fill the gap left by
Barnabas and go with Paul as he followed the call to Macedonia. He was a layman
willing to go when called on.
Being a Roman citizen and a man of reputation and education,
his influence with the Romans was important to the spread of the Gospel. He was a man bold in his faith and was
beaten, arrested and thrown in jail for preaching. Willing to suffer for his faith, he exampled
the commitment of believers in the early church.
Acts 15: 22 speaks of this layman as one of the "leading men
among the brethren." He
was regarded with respect among his brothers; a leader in service and example. He was willing to go as well as send... to do
as well as pray. As a matter of fact, he
was evidently a pretty good preacher (although scripture says he was a bit
long-winded). Silvanus (Silas) was able
to proclaim the gospel with conviction though he is not known as a pastor.
So who was Silvanus?
He was a good church member; a lay missionary, preacher, evangelist,
writer and beloved friend Paul and Peter.
He was content to be only a name, content to take second place, and content
to serve in the background so long as God's work was done. It is men like this who make preachers look
good.
Peter speaks with additional authority when he says,
"through Silvanus". Any
preacher or pastor has those for whom can fondly say, "faithful brother
for so I regard him." On
such the church is built.
Today, let’s all take time to thank God for those who serve
our Lord His church faithfully and diligently.
Scripture to Claim
I thank my God in all
my remembrance of you, always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for
you all, in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until
now. (Philippians 1:3-5)
