2 Cor 8.23 As for Titus, he is my partner (common) and fellow worker (work together) among you; as for our brethren, they are messengers of the churches, a glory to Christ.
As we look at the above scripture there are a few things that are worth considering. I believe that what we see here is a relational progression :
Friendship ....as for Titus
Some of the greatest people I know are my friends. We enjoy each others company, we spend time together, we talk and invest in each others kids. We know each other by name, in some cases we come up with nick names. A relationship starts with friendship which is to be known and acknowledged by another and although it is foundational, a Kingdom relationship cannot stop there.
Partner ...my partner
The word here is koinōnos - it is the sharer or perhaps a better word is to have in 'common'. This is a great covenant term in which two parties make their livelihood and livestock (resources/talents/defenses) available to each other. They will stand in the gap and become whatever is lacking in the other. And it should not stop there....
Synergy ......fellow worker (synergos)
This is where they work together with intention to accomplish a task. They trust one another to that degree that now they are willing to labor together- keep in mind that the work of a mans hand is the ultimate resource - it's at this point that most realize the power of synergy - this depth of relationship releases an efficiency and fruitfulness that is difficult to explain. Some call it the 1+1=3 principle. Synergy is where the effect of their combined work is greater than the sum of the effect of their individual work. In some case studies this is calculated out to be as much as 25% more.
This relationship generally results in a powerful and concentrated release of energy and resources (revival). It's this united power that is the fruit of a relational journey that has stood the test of time where much of those heart and character issues have been dealt with. Unfortunately many give up before it reaches its full capacity and therefore never realize the power of synergy.
Is it perhaps this principle we see in the Trinity. In the old days it was a great benefit to have oxen that were willing to be yoked together. Psm 133 is quoted so often when it comes to unity but we must see this unity as the fruit of the work. To assume I can simply partake of the fruit without the sacrifice is worldly, cheap and common. True kingdom relationship must have it's full work in us through patients and sacrifice ...it must cost you something.
...they are messengers. (Apostolic)
When synergos has it full work in our lives the result is CHURCHES who band together and send and release apostolos workers into the world. The church becomes apostolic ...
(Important to note that apostolic workers represent churches and a church)
Just a thought ....
