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Philippians 2:19-30
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 proven worth, how as a son 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 for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me.
Watch the Sermon
Summary: This week, Paul continues applying the theme that began in 1:27, where he encouraged us toward Christlikeness and humility. This passage—though it may seem obscure—actually follows Paul’s natural flow of thought. First, he holds up the example of Christ (2:1–11). Then, he provides a direct application for the Philippians (2:12–18). And now, he commends two men who have lived this out for them to imitate (2:19–30).
Paul presents Timothy, who demonstrates a self-forgetful love, more concerned with the Philippians’ growth in Christ than with his own interests. He also commends Epaphroditus, who risked his life to deliver the Philippians’ gift to Paul. Here, we see the deep interconnectedness and love within the body of Christ—an example meant to encourage us to serve, love, and sacrifice for one another. Not because we are trying to climb the ladder of self-righteousness, but because our hearts reflect the heart of Christ, who loved us and gave Himself up for us.
Review & Apply
Paul typically leaves practical matters to the end of his letters, but he includes his travel plans here in a very theological and practical section of Philippians. What does that tell you about Paul's purpose in this passage?
Although the discussion about Timothy and Epaphroditus takes up a good portion of this letter, what do you see about Paul's heart for the church he planted? What instructions are given to the Philippians?
What do you notice about Paul's demeanor regarding future plans? How does he display a gospel hope that we can emulate?
What does your love and care for the church look like practically? Do you display concern for others? Do you pray for the church? How can we ask the Lord to grow our affections for God's people?
How can the interconnectedness of everyone in this passage be an encouragement to us? How can Christ Covenant grow in our unity and dependence on one another?
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