Aristarchus - A Faithful Christian

Introduction

1. When reading through the Bible, we become well-acquainted with many of the prominent characters found in each of the books.
2. In the Old Testament, we can easily recall the works of great men like Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, David, etc. Likewise in the New Testament, we read about Jesus, of course, but also Peter, James, John, and Paul.
3. These are no doubt great men, who have done great things for God and the cause of Christ, and we remember them so well because they are in the spotlight throughout much of the Bible.
4. But what can we learn about the "regular Joe" trying to live faithfully? Certainly these outnumber the more prominent people, yet they aren't easily recalled.
5. That said, I'd like to use this opportunity to talk briefly about a man named Aristarchus.

1. Acts 19:29

   1. Aristarchus was converted during Paul's trip to Thessalonica (Acts 17), and accompanied him on his 3rd missionary journey, most likely making the trip to Athens and Corinth, before dealing with the riot in Ephesus.

2. Acts 20:4

   1. Despite what had happened in Ephesus, Aristarchus continued with Paul through Macedonia and Achaia, and was there at Troas when the disciples came together on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7), despite the attempts made by the Jews to stop the mission (Acts 20:3).

3. Acts 27:2

   1. Aristarchus no doubt remained close to Paul even after this, joining him in his voyage as a prisoner to Rome, after being locked up in Caesarea for 2 years (Acts 24:27).

4. Col. 4:10 and Philemon 24

   1. Aristarchus is here mentioned as a "fellow prisoner" by Paul, showing his resolve to remain faithful no matter what trials were thrown his way.

Conclusion

1. Aristarchus isn't mentioned as often in the Bible as many great men of faith. He's not mentioned in the so-called "Faith Hall of Fame" found in Hebrews 11.
2. He wasn't necessarily a great speaker, leader, or teacher (from what I can tell). There's not even one recorded word from his mouth in Scripture.
3. Yet, in the 5 verses in which he is mentioned, we catch a brief glimpse of a faithful Christian, whose conduct can be an inspiration for majority of us today.
4. Like times past, its often those who are in the spotlight that are remembered, and there are certainly a good number of preachers, elders, and commentators who have done great things for the church today.
5. But let it never be forgotten that a faithful Christian is not necessarily one who is remembered or recognized by the most men for their conduct and good works, but by God (cf. Matt. 6:4,6,18).
6. While being a Paul is a great thing, let us be content with being an Aristarchus, a Christian who didn't let trials and tribulations discourage him, but pressed toward the goal (Phil. 3:14; see Rev. 2:10).