A Compassionate Friend

A Compassionate Friend 

Philippians 2: 25-30

Epaphroditus is the one who brought the gift from Philippi and the one who bore this wonderful letter back to the Philippian church, so Paul is explaining the characteristics of him in these verses.

His popularity is evident from the fact that he was chosen by the church for this difficult task and Paul outlines the qualities he most appreciates in Epaphroditus

Prior to Timothy being sent unto them, Paul was going to send Epaphroditus right away.

He too was a man they knew and trusted. He was a brother in the faith. He had labored alongside Paul, being faithful to stand with him when others were unwilling.

He had ministered to the church at Philippi, preaching the Gospel unto them as their messenger.

Paul says the quality he most appreciates in Epaphroditus is helpfulness.

Paul speaks of the affection Epaphroditus had for the church. He had become seriously ill and was more concerned with the discouragement of the church due to his illness than his infirmity.

He put the church’s needs above his own.

Paul knew the return of Epaphroditus to Philippi would result in great rejoicing for them. Although he would miss him greatly, his return would also provide encouragement to Paul.

Paul expected them to receive Epaphroditus the same as they would him. There was no room for resentment or anger.

While Timothy and Paul’s presence would have been beneficial to them. We must never assume that the church’s ministry rests solely in the gifts and contributions of one individual. The work of the Gospel is greater than any of us.

We should never underestimate the value of being obedient to the Lord’s will for your life and being found in your place.

You may never receive the gratitude you desire, but I can assure you that your faithfulness provides more than you realize.

The church benefits greatly from your contributions of different forms and your faithfulness more than any one of you can imagine. 

This serves as a challenge and a reminder to each of us.

Sadly, churches are often divided into specific and separate groups.

Some are held in high esteem, while others are neglected and avoided.

We must see every believer as part of the body of Christ and beneficial to the church and her work.

We need to value every member the same, receiving them as we would anyone else.

Paul spoke of us developing the mind of Christ. He revealed the obedience of Christ and our obligation to do the same. He closes with an example and reminder of two devoted men who modeled that life of obedient surrender.

Epaphroditus lived out the sacrificial model that Christ portrayed on the cross as He suffered and died on our behalf. We too need to develop and present such a commitment.

Let us pray

Heavenly Father, help us to surrender our life, commit it for your cause that we will be able to serve one another with compassion and helpfulness to each other. Help us to model them and develop the mindset of Christ. In Jesus Name. Amen.