Philippians 2 25

Philippians 2:25 kjv

Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.

Philippians 2:25 nkjv

Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need;

Philippians 2:25 niv

But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs.

Philippians 2:25 esv

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,

Philippians 2:25 nlt

Meanwhile, I thought I should send Epaphroditus back to you. He is a true brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier. And he was your messenger to help me in my need.

Philippians 2 verses

Philippians 2 25 Meaning

This verse identifies Epaphroditus as a faithful messenger, fellow worker, and companion in distress, whom Paul desires to send back to the Philippian believers after his illness.

Philippians 2 25 Context

The letter to the Philippians was written by the Apostle Paul from prison, likely in Rome. Despite his circumstances, Paul's focus is on the joy found in Christ and the importance of unity and steadfastness within the church at Philippi. He has heard about their continued faithfulness and support, and he writes to encourage them. In this particular section (Philippians 2:19-30), Paul discusses his plans to send Timothy and Epaphroditus to visit them, intending to glean information and to express his appreciation for their ongoing partnership in the gospel. Epaphroditus had evidently come to Philippi from Philippi to minister to Paul and had fallen seriously ill, bringing him near death. This verse speaks of Epaphroditus's role in reaching Paul and the desire for his return, implying his recovery and readiness for the journey.

Philippians 2 25 Word Analysis

• Epaphroditus (Ἐπαφρόδιτος - Epaphroditos):
  • The name is derived from "Aphrodite," the Greek goddess of love and beauty.
  • In a Christian context, it is transliterated as Epaphroditus.
  • It signifies "lovely," "charming," or "fit." The name itself likely reflects his pleasing personality or service, a quality valued by Paul.
• denote (πέμπω - pempo):
  • Transliteration: pempo.
  • Meaning: to send, dispatch.
  • It signifies an act of sending someone with a purpose.
• my brother (ἀδελφὸν - adelphon):
  • Transliteration: adelphon.
  • Meaning: brother.
  • This term highlights the close spiritual kinship and fellowship shared between believers in Christ, regardless of their literal familial ties. It signifies an intimate, affectionate relationship.
• companion (συνεργὸν - synergon):
  • Transliteration: synergon.
  • Meaning: fellow worker, partner, collaborator.
  • This word, related to "synergy," emphasizes a cooperative effort and shared labor in the work of the Lord. It underscores Epaphroditus's active involvement and partnership with Paul in ministry.
• fellowsoldier (στρατιώτην - stratiōten):
  • Transliteration: stratiōten.
  • Meaning: soldier, warrior.
  • This metaphor portrays the Christian life as a spiritual battle, requiring courage, discipline, and commitment. Epaphroditus is characterized as one who actively fights alongside Paul in this spiritual warfare for the cause of the gospel.
• yours (ὑμῶν - hymān):
  • Transliteration: hymān.
  • Meaning: your (plural).
  • This possessive pronoun refers directly to the believers in Philippi, indicating that Epaphroditus was sent by them and represented them.
• messenger (ἄγγελον - aggelon):
  • Transliteration: aggelon.
  • Meaning: messenger, angel.
  • In this context, it refers to one sent as a representative, an envoy carrying news or fulfilling a mission on behalf of a community. It highlights his delegated role.
• minister (λειτουργὸν - leitourgono):
  • Transliteration: leitourgono.
  • Meaning: minister, servant, one who performs public service, a worship or service.
  • This term implies a public or sacred service, suggesting Epaphroditus was engaged in vital service to God's people and to God himself through his actions towards Paul. It often relates to priestly service, highlighting the sacred nature of his work.
• to my need (τῆς χρείας μου - tēs chreias mou):
  • Transliteration: tēs chreias mou.
  • Meaning: of the need of me.
  • This refers to the practical necessities or needs that Paul had, especially in his imprisonment. Epaphroditus willingly came to provide for these needs, demonstrating selfless love and care.

Philippians 2 25 Bonus Section

Epaphroditus's story is a powerful example of the sacrificial love and partnership within the early church. His journey to Paul in Rome and his subsequent illness and recovery underscore the profound ways believers support one another, even across great distances and under difficult circumstances. This passage also implicitly celebrates the Philippians' faithfulness and generosity, as they sent Epaphroditus to minister to Paul, fulfilling the spirit of Christian fellowship and mutual aid, as described in verses like Philippians 4:14-18. His story is a testament to how individuals become instruments of God's love and provision for others in ministry.

Philippians 2 25 Commentary

Paul speaks of Epaphroditus with immense affection and respect, describing him not just as a fellow laborer but as a spiritual brother, a fellow soldier, and their appointed messenger and minister to Paul's needs. The depth of their bond is evident in the titles Paul uses, showcasing Epaphroditus's dedication and the Philippians' generosity. Epaphroditus's near-death experience while serving Paul highlights his sacrificial commitment to the gospel and to supporting fellow believers, even at great personal cost. Paul’s desire to send him back acknowledges his recovery and the church’s longing for his return, framing Epaphroditus as a conduit of the Philippians’ care for Paul.