In this day of mobility, letters of commendation should be more common than ever. Strangely this biblical practice has fallen into sad disuse.
Robert C. Chapman was asked how the saints in Barnstaple were doing with a certain brother who had recently moved into that area. The gracious and honest answer was, “He is a valuable brother, a very valuable brother; we did not know our need of patience till he came among us!”
We wish every addition to a local assembly only made the load lighter. But the fact is that when Christians move about quite frequently, there are troubles–and surprises. J. R. Littleproud wrote a short paper about letters of commendation, which we might find helpful to those who are leaving one locale for another.
“When Christians move from the place where they are known to one where they are not known, it is important that they take with them letters of commendation from the assembly where they are in fellowship. When Phebe went from Cenchrea to Rome, Paul wrote to the assembly at Rome, commending her to their care and fellowship (Rom. 16:1-2). How gladly the saints at Rome would welcome her when she came commended in this way.
“When Apollos left Ephesus to go into Achaia, the Ephesian brethren wrote exhorting the brethren in Achaia to receive him (Acts 18:27). Thus accredited, he was not only received, but the saints had confidence in him, with the result that he ‘helped them much which had believed through grace.’
“Again, Paul wrote to the Corinthian assembly, ‘Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you?’ He has stated two truths:
(a) When persons are well-known in an assembly where they are visiting, it is unnecessary to bring again letters of commendation.
(b) Other Christians should bring such letters.
“The practice of taking letters of commendation should commend itself to all Christians. It avoids all trouble and doubt at the place one hopes to be received, and encourages confidence and a hearty welcome. If one has difficulty in obtaining reception where he is not known because he neglected to observe this Scriptural principle, he has himself to blame.”