In Ephesians 6:21, Paul says he has sent Tychicus with the letter so he might give them a good report to encourage their hearts. Paul is under house arrest, an "ambassador in chains,” awaiting his opportunity to stand before Caesar. The Apostle is on the front lines of the spiritual conflict. While imprisonment might seem like defeat, the encouraging news is that his confinement opened the door to evangelize the Palace guard as well as members of Caesar’s own household. The advancement of God’s Kingdom under these circumstances also encouraged others to boldly proclaim the Gospel.