Ephesians 6:21

KJV

But that ye also may know my affairs, [and] how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things:

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} that {G2443} ye {G5210} also {G2532} may know {G1492} my {G1691} affairs {G2596}, and how {G5101} I do {G4238}, Tychicus {G5190}, a beloved {G27} brother {G80} and {G2532} faithful {G4103} minister {G1249} in {G1722} the Lord {G2962}, shall make known {G1107} to you {G5213} all things {G3956}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Now, so that you may also be informed about how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus, the dear brother and a faithful worker for the Lord, will tell you everything.

Berean Standard Bible

Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know about me and what I am doing.

American Standard Version

But that ye also may know my affairs, how I do, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ephesians 6:21 serves as a personal postscript to Paul's profound letter, assuring the Ephesian believers that he is sending Tychicus, a trusted and beloved companion, to provide them with a full and firsthand account of his circumstances and welfare. This verse transitions from the weighty theological themes and practical exhortations of the epistle to a tender display of Paul's pastoral heart and his desire to maintain a personal connection with the church, even from his imprisonment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks the beginning of Paul's concluding remarks and personal greetings in the Epistle to the Ephesians. Having just concluded a powerful exhortation for spiritual warfare and the donning of the full armor of God in [Ephesians 6:10-20](/ephesians/6-10-20 "Ephesians 6:10-20 - The Armor of God"), Paul shifts from universal spiritual principles to specific, personal communication. This transition is characteristic of Paul's letters, where deep theological instruction is often followed by practical application, personal updates, and greetings, demonstrating that theology is not abstract but deeply personal and relational. The sending of Tychicus is a common Pauline practice, seen also in letters like [Colossians](/colossians/4-7-8 "Colossians 4:7-8 - Tychicus's Mission") and [Philippians](/philippians/2-19-30 "Philippians 2:19-30 - Timothy and Epaphroditus Sent"), serving to bridge the geographical distance and reinforce the apostolic bond with the churches.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Written likely during Paul's first Roman imprisonment (circa AD 60-62), Ephesians is one of the "Prison Epistles." During this era, letters were the primary means of long-distance communication. Given the lack of a postal service, letters were hand-delivered by trusted couriers who often also served as verbal messengers, providing additional context, answering questions, and conveying personal updates that could not be fully captured in writing. Paul, being under house arrest, relied heavily on such faithful individuals to maintain vital connections with the churches he had founded or ministered to. Tychicus, as described, embodies the ideal courier: a "beloved brother" signifying familial spiritual bond, and a "faithful minister" indicating reliability and dedication to gospel service. This practice highlights the communal and relational nature of early Christianity, where personal trust and reliable messengers were paramount for the spread and nurture of the faith.

* **Key Themes:** Ephesians 6:21 contributes to several overarching themes within the letter and Paul's broader theology. It underscores Paul's **pastoral care and transparency**, revealing his deep affection and concern for the spiritual and personal well-being of the Ephesian believers. His willingness to share his "affairs" and "how I do" fosters a sense of intimate connection, moving beyond mere theological instruction to genuine relationship. The verse also highlights the **importance of trusted messengers** in the early church, individuals like Tychicus who were indispensable for maintaining communication, unity, and the spread of the gospel across geographical distances. Furthermore, Tychicus's description as a "beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord" implicitly emphasizes the **qualities of faithful service** within the body of Christ, echoing themes of Christian conduct and unity found throughout [Ephesians 4:1-16](/ephesians/4-1-16 "Ephesians 4:1-16 - Unity in the Body of Christ") and [Ephesians 5:1-21](/ephesians/5-1-21 "Ephesians 5:1-21 - Living as Children of Light"). This personal touch at the letter's close reinforces the idea that the church is not just an institution but a living, interconnected body, united in Christ and cared for by devoted servants.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **make known (Greek, _gnōrízō'_):** From G1107, this verb means "to make known," "to certify," or "to declare." In this context, it signifies Tychicus's specific mission to communicate Paul's situation clearly and fully to the Ephesians. It implies more than just delivering a letter; he is to impart a comprehensive understanding of Paul's state, likely including details about his imprisonment, his ministry, and his spiritual well-being, which would have been of great concern to the church.
* **minister (Greek, _diákonos'_):** From G1249, this term denotes an "attendant," "waiter," or "servant." While it is the root for the English word "deacon," here it emphasizes Tychicus's role as a dedicated servant of Christ and the church, faithfully carrying out apostolic duties on Paul's behalf. It speaks to his active, practical service in the spread of the gospel and the care of the churches.
* **faithful (Greek, _pistós'_):** From G4103, this adjective means "trustworthy" or "trustful." Applied to Tychicus, it underscores his reliability and integrity. Paul's confidence in Tychicus to accurately convey his personal information and to serve the church is rooted in Tychicus's proven faithfulness, both to Paul and to the Lord. This quality is essential for anyone entrusted with significant responsibilities in ministry.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do,"**: This opening clause expresses Paul's primary purpose in sending Tychicus. The conjunction "But" (G1161, _dé_) indicates a slight shift in focus from the preceding spiritual exhortations to a more personal concern. Paul desires that the Ephesian believers "know" (G1492, _eídō_) his personal "affairs" (G2596, _katá_ + G1691, _emé_ meaning "my things" or "things concerning me") and "how I do" (G5101, _tís_ + G4238, _prássō_ meaning "how I fare" or "what I am doing"). This demonstrates Paul's transparency and his desire for the church to be fully informed about his situation, fostering a deeper bond of empathy and prayer.
* **"Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord,"**: This phrase introduces the messenger and describes his character and standing. Tychicus (G5190, _Tychikós_) is not merely a messenger but a "beloved brother" (G27, _agapētós_ + G80, _adelphós_), signifying a deep spiritual kinship and affection within the Christian family. He is also a "faithful minister" (G4103, _pistós_ + G1249, _diákonos_), highlighting his trustworthiness and dedication in service. The phrase "in the Lord" (G1722, _en_ + G2962, _kýrios_) qualifies both "brother" and "minister," indicating that his belovedness and faithfulness are rooted in his relationship with Christ and his service is empowered and directed by Christ. This affirms his spiritual integrity and reliability.
* **"shall make known to you all things:"**: This final clause reiterates Tychicus's mission with emphasis. He "shall make known" (G1107, _gnōrízō_) "all things" (G3956, _pâs_) to the Ephesian believers (G5213, _hymîn_). This suggests a comprehensive update, not just a brief summary. Tychicus would likely elaborate on Paul's imprisonment, his health, his ongoing ministry, and perhaps even his future plans, providing a full picture that a written letter alone could not convey. This personal interaction would serve to encourage the church and strengthen their connection with the apostle.

#### Literary Devices
Ephesians 6:21 employs several literary devices to achieve its purpose. The most prominent is **Apostolic Salutation/Closing**, a common feature in Pauline epistles where the apostle transitions from doctrinal instruction to personal greetings and updates, creating a sense of intimacy and connection with the recipients. The verse also utilizes **Ethos** by introducing Tychicus with strong character references ("beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord"). This builds trust and credibility for the messenger, ensuring that the Ephesians will receive his verbal report with the same authority and respect as Paul's written word. Furthermore, the verse serves as a **Personal Touch**, shifting the tone from the weighty theological and ethical exhortations to a more tender, relational concern for the church's peace of mind regarding Paul's welfare. Finally, the use of **Appellation** or **Epithet** in describing Tychicus as "a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord" concisely conveys his character and role, highlighting the qualities that made him a suitable and trusted envoy for the apostle.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ephesians 6:21, though a brief personal note, resonates with profound theological and thematic truths found throughout Scripture. It underscores the essential nature of fellowship and communication within the body of Christ, demonstrating that Christian life is not merely about individual spiritual growth but also about mutual care, transparency, and shared burdens. Paul's reliance on Tychicus exemplifies the biblical principle of delegated authority and the importance of faithful servants in extending the reach of the gospel and nurturing the church. This verse also implicitly highlights the providence of God, who raises up and equips individuals like Tychicus to serve His purposes, even in challenging circumstances like Paul's imprisonment. It reminds us that ministry is a collaborative effort, built on trust, love, and shared commitment to the Lord.

* [Colossians 4:7-8](/colossians/4-7-8 "Colossians 4:7-8 - Tychicus, a Faithful Minister")
* [2 Timothy 4:12](/2_timothy/4-12 "2 Timothy 4:12 - Tychicus Sent to Ephesus")
* [Titus 3:12](/titus/3-12 "Titus 3:12 - Tychicus or Artemas to Crete")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ephesians 6:21 offers valuable insights for contemporary believers, reminding us that genuine Christian community thrives on personal connection and transparent communication. In an age of digital interaction, Paul's decision to send a person, Tychicus, to convey his "affairs" speaks to the irreplaceable value of face-to-face interaction and the warmth of personal relationship. It challenges us to move beyond superficial connections and invest in deeper, more authentic relationships within our local church and broader Christian fellowship. Tychicus's character as a "beloved brother and faithful minister" also serves as a powerful model for all believers. We are called to be faithful in whatever sphere of influence or service God has placed us, whether in formal ministry or daily life, always acting with love and integrity "in the Lord." This verse encourages us to appreciate and support those who serve as messengers and ministers of the gospel, recognizing their vital role in connecting and caring for the body of Christ. Ultimately, it calls us to cultivate a community marked by trust, mutual concern, and a shared commitment to making known the "all things" of God's truth and love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's decision to send Tychicus, rather than just a letter, challenge our understanding of communication and relationship within the church today?**
* **In what ways can we emulate Tychicus's qualities of being a "beloved brother" and "faithful minister" in our own spheres of influence and service?**
* **What "affairs" or personal updates might we need to transparently share with trusted members of our Christian community to foster deeper connection and mutual support?**
* **How can we better support and affirm those who serve as "ministers" or "messengers" in our churches and ministries?**

### FAQ
**Who was Tychicus, and why was he so important to Paul?**

Answer: Tychicus was a trusted companion and fellow worker of the Apostle Paul, mentioned in several of Paul's letters. He was important to Paul primarily because he served as a reliable and faithful messenger, courier, and personal representative. In a time without modern communication, Tychicus was indispensable for maintaining vital links between Paul, often imprisoned, and the various churches he ministered to. Paul describes him as a "beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord" in [Ephesians 6:21](/ephesians/6-21 "Ephesians 6:21 - Tychicus's Role"). He is also mentioned in [Colossians 4:7-8](/colossians/4-7-8 "Colossians 4:7-8 - Tychicus and Onesimus"), where Paul states that Tychicus will "make known to you all my state," and in [Acts 20:4](/acts/20-4 "Acts 20:4 - Paul's Companions"), [Titus 3:12](/titus/3-12 "Titus 3:12 - Tychicus to Crete"), and [2 Timothy 4:12](/2_timothy/4-12 "2 Timothy 4:12 - Tychicus Sent to Ephesus"), consistently portrayed as a loyal and dedicated servant of the Lord. His importance lay in his trustworthiness and his ability to accurately convey Paul's personal situation and the progress of the gospel, fostering unity and encouragement among the scattered churches.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ephesians 6:21 is a personal note from Paul, it subtly points to the Christ-centered nature of all Christian relationships and service. Tychicus is described as a "beloved brother and faithful minister *in the Lord*," signifying that his identity, his love for others, and his very service are rooted in and empowered by Christ. This echoes the broader theme of the entire letter of Ephesians, which continually emphasizes that believers are "in Christ" – united with Him, blessed by Him, and empowered by His Spirit to live out their new identity. Just as Tychicus faithfully "makes known" Paul's affairs, Christ Himself is the ultimate revealer, the one who "made known to us the mystery of his will" ([Ephesians 1:9](/ephesians/1-9 "Ephesians 1:9 - The Mystery of God's Will")). He is the ultimate "faithful minister" who served God's redemptive plan to its completion, becoming the servant of all ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). The bond between Paul and Tychicus, characterized by love and trust, mirrors the perfect fellowship found within the Trinity and the unity Christ desires for His church, as prayed for in [John 17:21](/john/17-21 "John 17:21 - Jesus' Prayer for Unity")). Thus, this seemingly simple verse, through the lens of Tychicus's Christ-defined character and mission, ultimately directs our gaze to the One who perfectly embodies faithfulness, love, and the making known of all things pertaining to God's glorious plan of salvation.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 20:4

And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.

2 Timothy 4:12

And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.

Titus 3:12

When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.

Colossians 4:7

¶ All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, [who is] a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord:

Colossians 4:9

With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is [one] of you. They shall make known unto you all things which [are done] here.

Colossians 1:7

As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;

1 Corinthians 4:17

¶ For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church.