Ephesians 6:22

KJV

Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know our affairs, and [that] he might comfort your hearts.

KJV (with Strong's)

Whom {G3739} I have sent {G3992} unto {G4314} you {G5209} for {G1519} the same {G846} purpose {G5124}, that {G2443} ye might know {G1097} our {G2257} affairs {G4012}, and {G2532} that he might comfort {G3870} your {G5216} hearts {G2588}.

Complete Jewish Bible

This is the very reason I have sent him to you, so that you may know how we are getting along and so that he may comfort and encourage you.

Berean Standard Bible

I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know about us, and that he may encourage your hearts.

American Standard Version

whom I have sent unto you for this very purpose, that ye may know our state, and that he may comfort your hearts.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ephesians 6:22 serves as a personal postscript to Paul's profound letter, revealing his deep pastoral heart and strategic wisdom. Through the dispatch of Tychicus, Paul ensures the Ephesian believers receive not only the written epistle but also a personal, empathetic update on his circumstances, aiming to alleviate their concerns and provide spiritual and emotional encouragement, thereby strengthening their faith and resolve amidst potential anxieties regarding his imprisonment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ephesians 6:22 concludes the practical exhortations of the letter and transitions into Paul's final greetings. Preceding this verse, Paul has just introduced Tychicus in [Ephesians 6:21](/ephesians/6-21 "Ephesians 6:21 - Tychicus, a faithful minister"), identifying him as a "beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord." This sets the stage for Tychicus's specific mission detailed in verse 22. The verses immediately before this section (Ephesians 6:10-20) focus on the spiritual warfare and the call to put on the [full armor of God](/ephesians/6-11-17 "Ephesians 6:11-17 - The Full Armor of God"), emphasizing the need for spiritual strength and prayer. The sending of Tychicus, therefore, provides a tangible expression of Paul's ongoing care for the church, even as he concludes his theological and practical instructions. It bridges the doctrinal and practical sections with a personal touch, ensuring the recipients are not left wondering about the apostle's well-being.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul likely wrote the letter to the Ephesians from Roman imprisonment, as indicated in [Ephesians 3:1](/ephesians/3-1 "Ephesians 3:1 - Paul, a Prisoner of Christ Jesus"). In the ancient world, communication over long distances was challenging and often relied on trusted couriers. These messengers were not merely mail carriers; they were often personal representatives who could elaborate on the letter's contents, answer questions, and convey the sender's demeanor and situation. Tychicus, as a trusted co-worker, fulfilled this vital role. Ephesus itself was a prominent city in Asia Minor, a hub of trade and pagan worship, making the stability and encouragement of the Christian community there particularly important. The concern for Paul's "affairs" (his imprisonment, health, and ministry progress) would have been significant for a church deeply connected to its founding apostle, especially given the dangers faced by early Christians.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Ephesians and Paul's broader ministry. It highlights **Pastoral Care and Apostolic Concern**, demonstrating Paul's deep affection and commitment to the spiritual and emotional well-being of the churches he served. His desire for the Ephesians to "know our affairs" underscores a theme of **Transparency and Trust** between the apostle and the believers, fostering a genuine relationship. The explicit purpose of Tychicus to "comfort your hearts" emphasizes the biblical theme of **Mutual Encouragement and Consolation** within the body of Christ, echoing the call for believers to [bear one another's burdens](/galatians/6-2 "Galatians 6:2 - Bear One Another's Burdens"). Furthermore, it exemplifies **Apostolic Delegation**, where Paul, unable to be physically present, extends his ministry and maintains vital connections through reliable co-workers like Tychicus, who also delivered the letter to the Colossians, as noted in [Colossians 4:7](/colossians/4-7 "Colossians 4:7 - Tychicus, a faithful minister"). This practice was crucial for the spread and stability of the early church.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **know (Greek, _ginōskō_):** This verb (G1097) denotes a comprehensive understanding, not merely intellectual knowledge but often implying experiential or relational knowing. In this context, for the Ephesians to "know our affairs" means they would gain a full, empathetic understanding of Paul's circumstances, including his imprisonment, health, and the progress of the gospel through him. This knowledge would enable them to pray more specifically and to have peace of mind regarding his situation.
* **comfort (Greek, _parakaléō_):** From G3870, this rich Greek term means "to call near," implying invitation, imploration, exhortation, or consolation. It goes beyond simple solace, encompassing encouragement, strengthening, and reassurance. Tychicus's mission was to provide deep emotional and spiritual support, alleviating anxieties and bolstering the believers' resolve in their faith, much like a comforter or advocate.
* **hearts (Greek, _kardía_):** G2588 refers to the heart, which in biblical thought is the center of one's being – the seat of intellect, emotion, will, and spiritual life. When Paul speaks of comforting their "hearts," he is addressing their innermost thoughts, feelings, and spiritual state, aiming to bring peace, stability, and encouragement to their very core.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose":** This clause identifies Tychicus as the messenger and reiterates his specific mission. The "same purpose" refers back to the preceding verse, [Ephesians 6:21](/ephesians/6-21 "Ephesians 6:21 - Tychicus's Mission"), where Paul states Tychicus will make known "all things" about him. This emphasizes the intentionality and significance of Tychicus's journey and his role as Paul's personal envoy.
* **"that ye might know our affairs":** This specifies the primary informational aspect of Tychicus's mission. Paul desired the Ephesian believers to be fully informed about his personal situation, including his well-being, the conditions of his imprisonment, and the state of his ministry. This transparency aimed to prevent speculation and allow the church to engage in informed prayer and concern for their apostle.
* **"and that he might comfort your hearts":** This reveals the deeper, pastoral objective of Tychicus's visit. Beyond merely conveying information, Tychicus was to provide spiritual and emotional solace. Knowing Paul's situation firsthand, and receiving personal encouragement from a trusted messenger, would serve to calm any anxieties, strengthen their faith, and reassure them of God's continued work even amidst Paul's trials. This highlights Paul's profound care for the emotional and spiritual health of the Ephesian church.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concise verse. The primary device is **Apostolic Delegation**, where Paul, as the authoritative apostle, sends a trusted representative (Tychicus) to act on his behalf. This is a common feature in Paul's letters, demonstrating his reliance on co-workers to extend his ministry and maintain personal connections with distant churches. There is also a strong **Pastoral Tone**, as Paul's language reveals his deep affection and concern for the spiritual and emotional well-being of the Ephesian believers, going beyond mere instruction to offer personal reassurance. Furthermore, the phrase "comfort your hearts" utilizes **Synecdoche**, a figure of speech where a part (hearts) represents the whole (the entire person). By comforting their "hearts," Paul intends to bring solace and strength to their entire being—their minds, emotions, and spirits—addressing their deepest concerns and anxieties.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ephesians 6:22 beautifully illustrates the incarnational nature of pastoral care, where God's comfort is often mediated through human agents. Paul, despite his imprisonment, ensures that the church receives not just a letter of profound theological truth but also a personal touch of empathy and reassurance. This act underscores the importance of relational ministry within the body of Christ, where believers are called to genuinely care for one another's burdens and joys. It reflects the truth that Christian community is meant to be a place of mutual support, transparency, and spiritual strengthening, especially in times of uncertainty or trial. The comfort Tychicus brings is not merely human sympathy, but a reflection of God's own comforting presence, mediated through a faithful servant.

* [2 Corinthians 1:3-4](/2_corinthians/1-3-4 "2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - God of All Comfort")
* [Philippians 2:19-20](/philippians/2-19-20 "Philippians 2:19-20 - Timothy's Mission")
* [Romans 12:15](/romans/12-15 "Romans 12:15 - Rejoice with Those Who Rejoice, Weep with Those Who Weep")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ephesians 6:22 offers profound insights into the nature of Christian community and personal ministry. It reminds us that while theological truth is paramount, it is often best received and applied within a context of genuine care and personal connection. In an age of digital communication, Paul's example of sending a trusted person to deliver news and comfort is a powerful reminder of the irreplaceable value of personal presence and empathetic engagement. We are called to be attentive to the "affairs" of our brothers and sisters in Christ, not out of mere curiosity, but out of a desire to understand their struggles, celebrate their joys, and offer specific, heartfelt prayer and support. Like Tychicus, we are to be agents of comfort, reflecting the compassionate heart of God to those around us, recognizing that a well-timed word of encouragement or a listening ear can profoundly strengthen a weary heart and bolster faith in challenging times.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I be a "Tychicus" to someone in my life or church who might be anxious or in need of comfort and a personal update?**
* **In what ways can I foster greater transparency and trust within my Christian community, allowing others to truly "know my affairs" and for me to know theirs?**
* **Beyond simply offering advice, how can I better provide genuine, empathetic comfort that addresses the "heart" of someone's concerns?**

### FAQ

**Why was it so important for Paul to send Tychicus to the Ephesians, rather than just send the letter?**

Answer: In the ancient world, letters were often delivered by trusted couriers who served as personal representatives. Sending Tychicus was crucial for several reasons. First, he could personally verify Paul's situation, addressing any rumors or anxieties about his imprisonment. Second, he could elaborate on the letter's contents, answering questions and providing context that a written document alone could not convey. Third, and most importantly, Tychicus was sent to "comfort your hearts" (Ephesians 6:22). This involved providing emotional and spiritual reassurance, a level of empathy and encouragement that required a personal presence. It demonstrated Paul's deep pastoral care and desire to maintain a strong, personal connection with the church, even from afar. This practice ensured that the message was not just received, but truly understood and internalized, bringing genuine peace and strengthening to the believers.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ephesians 6:22 primarily speaks to apostolic care and community, its underlying principle of comfort and knowledge finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ. Tychicus, as a messenger of comfort and truth about Paul's "affairs," foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate Messenger and Embodiment of God's comfort and revelation. Just as Tychicus brought knowledge and solace to anxious hearts, Jesus came to reveal the very "affairs" of God—His nature, His plan, and His love—to a world lost in darkness and anxiety. He is the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), the perfect revelation of the Father, allowing us to truly "know" God in a way previously impossible. Furthermore, Jesus is our supreme Comforter and Advocate. He promised to send the [Holy Spirit, the Helper](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit, the Helper"), who would "comfort" (Greek, _parakaléō_) His disciples, guiding them into all truth and bringing peace to their hearts amidst trials, just as Tychicus sought to comfort the Ephesians. In Christ, we find the ultimate transparency of God's heart toward humanity, and through His sacrifice and resurrection, our hearts are eternally comforted and secured, knowing that [He is with us always](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - Jesus is With Us Always"), even to the end of the age.

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

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 4:8

Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts;

Philippians 2:25

Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.

Colossians 2:2

That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;

1 Thessalonians 3:2

And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:

Philippians 2:19

But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.

2 Thessalonians 2:17

Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.