Philippians 2:19-30 Two Christian Missionaries WC
McCarter
Introduction
READ Scripture- This is the Word of God
Timothy’s Work (19-24)
Notice that
this paragraph is bookended by Paul’s trust in the Lord: to send Timothy and to
come himself to the Philippians. Timothy
accompanied Paul on the second missionary journey when the church was
established. Paul wanted to send Timothy
to the Philippians, and it appears that’s what they had requested by sending
Epaphroditus as somewhat of a trade-off.
Paul wanted to send Timothy so that he could report back the state of
the church.
Look at the
descriptions of Timothy: like-minded; sincerely caring; proven character; and
serves in the Gospel. This is in
contrast with others who are described as those who seek their own. Among Paul’s helpers, Timothy was outstanding
and most valued. Verse 21 is a general
rule, yet Timothy was an exception.
Sons learned
the trade of their fathers ~ Timothy learned the work of Paul, the Gospel
ministry. Let’s talk about mentorship
for a few minutes. (SEE Titus 2:1-8; 2 Tim 2:1-2; Matt 5:19)
Epaphroditus’ Work (25-30)
Epaphroditus
was from Philippi and was commissioned by the church as a messenger/servant. Roman prison officials offered little-to-no
provisions so the Philippians probably sent things like money, clothes, and
food by Epaphroditus for Paul. He was to
deliver the gifts to Paul and offer his service in place of the church. That service almost cost him his life. His name is only mentioned in Philippians and
there is nowhere in the letter that says this, but I think he may have been a
deacon of the Philippian church.
Epaphroditus
wanted to go back to Philippi because he was distressed that they had heard he
was sick. Paul also wanted to send
Epaphroditus back and there are several possibilities for why: he wanted to
keep Timothy, wanted Epaphroditus to deliver the letter and give an update on
Paul’s situation, and he had been sick so Paul wanted him to get back home
safely. Paul and Epaphroditus could ease
their anxieties if he made it back and had a joyous reunion with the church. A big part of this letter is about
Epaphroditus returning to them—how would he be received?
There is
speculation that the Philippians were passing rumors about Epaphroditus’ illness
which isn’t too far-fetched because churches do that type of thing all the
time. There is a good chance that he got
sick from the traveling—crossing lands, boats, prison.
Epaphroditus
is the type of Christian to be esteemed and emulated. Verse 30 “not regarding his life” exemplifies
Paul’s teaching (SEE 2:1-4, 8).
Conclusion and Christian Application
(1) Why these two men and why now? Both
exemplify Paul’s teaching.
(2) Christians (esp. servant leaders) who seek the well-being of
others should be respected.
(3) This is what the Christian life is
all about—Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus were looking out not only for their
own interests, but also for the interests of the Philippians. That is why these
verses are added and why they are added in this exact place in the letter.