2 Timothy 4:20
“Erastus remained at Corinth, but I left Trophimus at Miletus sick.”
What does 2 Timothy 4:20 mean?
Paul is sharing practical details about his companions as he nears the end of his life and ministry. Erastus stayed behind in Corinth to continue the work there, while Trophimus, who had traveled with Paul, became ill during their journey and had to be left in Miletus to recover. These seemingly small notes remind us that real ministry happens through real people facing real limitations like sickness and separation, not in some idealized, problem-free way. Even as Paul faced his own difficulties, his concern extended to his friends' well-being and their usefulness in God's work.