Philippians 2:19-30

Philippians 2:19-30

Paul singles out two teammates for special praise and does so in the context of a longer discourse on unity. In this discourse Paul has said little to nothing about the “feelings of unity” or the “causes of unity.” He has instead talked about the “right thinking for unity,” and now he shows how humbleness of mind looks in two remarkable men.

First is Timothy, Paul's right-hand man. Timothy will be sent when there is a definitive word on Paul's legal case. Paul says Timothy was his “kindred spirit” (NASB); most English translations fail to catch the unity in that word. The word is a compound word; the first meaning “identical” or “equal,” the second word is “soul,” which can also mean “breath of life” or even “human distinction.” Timothy shared the equal passion and concern for the church at Philippi. That is expressed in his life as in verse 21. Timothy seeks the interest of Christ above his own. The only way to have the unity of a kindred spirit is when we set the interest of Christ first and above our own interest.

The second person identified is Epaphroditus. He came to Paul, bringing the mission support from Philippi. He had served above and beyond expectations. Having faithfully delivered the support, he continued on serving. Paul identifies five roles he filled: brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, messenger, and minister. Each of these roles could fill pages, but the last one is the only one we will take a glance at. The word is ‘leitourgos,’ from which we get the English word ‘liturgy. Originally the word meant “the official who works for the good of the people at his own expense.” In the Greek city-states, authorities were not paid, but rather they paid their own way. The word was an apt description of Christian ministers who, at their own expense, led the churches in their works of service and later in worship. Paul is saying, “Epaphroditus is my pastor,” serving me as we serve together. This wasn't a hollow, throwaway compliment, but Paul expressing in a subtle way how, in mutual submission, he was both led by and served by Epaphroditus. Paul concludes with a pun or a joke that we don't notice. Epaphroditus means favored of Aphrodite; she was the patron goddess of gamblers. When a gambler would throw the dice, they would say, “Epaphroditus,” trying to invoke good luck. In verse 30 Paul said, “Epaphroditus has risked his life.” He, true to his name, gambled his life for Christ in a way that, even by Paul's standards, was adventurous and risky. But it was Christ, and not Aphrodite, that blessed that risk.

“Lord, help me to risk all for Jesus. AMEN”