01/10/2024
Two Men in Philippians Two:
Timothy
Timothy (vs 19–24) is a regular co- worker of Paul. He is son and grandson of godly Jewish women (2 Timothy 1:5), and his father was Greek (Acts 16:1). Paul had Timothy circumcised so that he would be acceptable in evangelism in Jewish circles (Acts 16:3). Paul often sends him to prepare for a visit or to see how a church is doing i n Paul’s absence (v 19; eg 1 Corinthians 4:17; 16:10; 1 Thessalonians 3:1– 2,6). Timothy’s readiness to focus on Christ’s interests, rather than his own, is central to his work (v 21).
Epaphroditus
Epaphroditus is sent by the Philippians to support Paul (v 25), but has become very ill (vs 26,27,30). Probably Epaphroditus was the bearer of money to support Paul during his Roman imprisonment. Paul appreciates him, describing him very positively (v 25). However, illness has prevented Epaphroditus from serving Paul as the Philippians had hoped. Nevertheless, Paul does not want his hearers to see him as a failure, and so speaks warmly of him and calls the believers to honour him (v 29). Paul recognises Epaphroditus’ readiness to serve even at great cost to himself.
Give thanks to God for those in your church who serve in the background, like these two, putting Christ’s interests first at cost to themselves.
Identify where you are in tune with Christ’s mindset (Philippians 2:5) and give thanks for what God has done to make you like that.
Steve Walton
