What's in a Name?

2Ti 1:15 This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes.
2Ti 1:16 The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:
2Ti 1:17 But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.
2Ti 1:18 The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.

Here we have 3 individuals with whom Paul had dealings. 2 did him wrong and one was a tremendous blessing to him.

Of those in Asia who forsook Paul, chief were Phygellus and Hermongenes. Their names befit them well.

Phygellus: Fugitive, run away. To shun.

Hermogenes: Born of the Greek deity, Hermes.

And then the faithful servant of the Lord and Paul, Onesiphorus: Bearer of Profit.

This was a good brother who often times refreshed Paul, no doubt, by being so profitable to the ministry.

Sad, the number of fellow laborers who turn on the true servants of God, or forsake them entirely, especially in time of need.

But, how wonderful the men and women who you can always count on to be a blessing.

May God increase the tribe of Onesiphorus.