Philippians 2:19–30 (May 27, 2025)

Timothy and Epaphroditus

19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered by news of you. 20 For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. 21 For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22 But you know Timothy's[a] proven worth, how as a son[b] with a father he has served with me in the gospel. 23 I hope therefore to send him just as soon as I see how it will go with me, 24 and I trust in the Lord that shortly I myself will come also.

25 I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need, 26 for he has been longing for you all and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill. 27 Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. 28 I am the more eager to send him, therefore, that you may rejoice at seeing him again, and that I may be less anxious. 29 So receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honor such men, 30 for he nearly died[c] for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me.

Footnotes

Philippians 2:22 Greek his

Philippians 2:22 Greek child

Philippians 2:30 Or he drew near to the point of death; compare verse 8

Summary

Paul now commends two of his most trusted companions—Timothy and Epaphroditus—not merely as errand-runners, but as living examples of gospel-minded service.

Timothy is described as uniquely concerned for the Philippians' welfare, embodying the mindset of Christ (2:20–21). Epaphroditus, a member of the Philippian church, had risked his life to deliver their gift to Paul and nearly died in the process. Both men reflect the self-emptying love of Christ described earlier in the chapter.

In highlighting these two co-workers, Paul not only prepares the church for their arrival, but also calls them—and us—to honor those who live out the gospel with such humility, sacrifice, and joy.

Who Is God?

God is the merciful protector of His servants and the giver of joy in sacrifice.

“Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.” (2:27)

God is not indifferent to human weakness or sorrow. His mercy extends not only to Epaphroditus but also to Paul—showing that divine providence includes emotional tenderness. The Greek word for “mercy” (eleēsen, ἐλέησεν) reflects God’s compassionate intervention. This is not stoic sovereignty but fatherly care. He preserves His servants, not always from danger, but often through it, with mercies that are both physical and emotional.

What Is Our Guilt?

We often fail to honor faithful servants and overlook their sacrifice.

“So receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honor such men…” (2:29)

In a world that glorifies platform over perseverance, we too easily overlook the quiet heroes of the faith. Timothy and Epaphroditus aren’t flashy—they are faithful. Yet we are often slow to honor those who labor in obscurity, who give their strength for the sake of Christ and His church. Our guilt lies in neglecting those whom Christ exalts: the humble, the sacrificial, and the faithful.

How Does the Grace Shine?

Grace forms Christlike concern and courageous service in ordinary lives.

“For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.” (2:20)

“He nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me.” (2:30)

Paul uses striking language here. Timothy is isopsychon (ἰσόψυχον) with Paul—“equal-souled” or “like-minded.” Epaphroditus risked his life—literally paraboleusamenos (παραβολευσάμενος), a gambling term meaning “to throw down a stake.” Grace produces people who stake their lives on Christ’s cause, not for applause, but out of deep concern for others. These verses demonstrate that Christian maturity is not defined by giftedness, but by a gospel-shaped character.

Closing Prayer

Merciful Father,

Thank you for raising up men and women who reflect the humility and courage of Christ.

We praise you for the example of Timothy and Epaphroditus—servants who loved not their own lives, but the welfare of others.

Forgive us for honoring what the world exalts and overlooking what you call precious.

Teach us to value faithfulness over fame, and sacrificial love over self-promotion.

Make us people who risk much for your name and rejoice in the quiet glory of gospel service.

In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.