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“An Addiction to Service”

Thoughts for Today:

In Romans 16:5, Paul said: "Greet my dear friend Epenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in the province of Asia." We can deduce by comparing these two passages that Epenetus was a member of Stephanas' household (the one mentioned in our passage today). Apparently, they were all very dedicated to their ministry of serving God's people. Paul uses the Greek word TASSO (translated in the NIV as "devoted") to describe their passion for serving. In the King James Version, the word used is "addicted". So Paul is saying that the whole family of Stephanas is addicted to service of the saints. It gives Paul's comment much greater emphasis and meaning.

Today, the word "addiction" has a negative connotations because we usually only speak of addition to bad things (for example, drugs and alcohol). Yet, this verse is speaking of a positive addiction. Therefore, we can also become addicted to good things like serving others, studying God's Word, and prayer. We can take our capacity for addiction and turn it toward the things of God. It won't happen immediately. But, repeated positive actions will eventually become addictive.

In our passage today, Paul says the whole family was addicted to service. So there is another principle at work here -- everyone in the household was infected with the master passion. The children (and other members of the household) must have seen Mom and Dad's commitment to the church at Corinth. They must have watched their parents opening their home and hearts, and spending time with other believers. They traveled together and served together as a family. It is no wonder they too became addicted to ministry.

Questions to Ponder:

We can see the negative influences that surround our families each and every day. It's in our schools, work places, playgrounds, gyms, on television, etc. So what will your family become addicted to? The poor behavior a fallen world, or an addiction to the Lord? Which will yield a more positive benefit? How do you need to adjust your personal passions? Are they holy or worldly? What kind of an example are you?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.