Highly esteemed in Paul’s eyes are those who are other-centered. He really did believe what he wrote in the early part of the chapter, where he said, “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (Phil 2:3-4). He mentioned Timothy as an example and now Epaphroditus. Both had “this attitude … which was also in Christ Jesus” (vs. 5).

Epaphroditus apparently had been sent by the Philippians to Paul with a love-gift of financial support (see Phil 4:18). Interestingly the text says he was their messenger, which translates the word “apostolos,” meaning “one who is sent on behalf of another.” Whereas Paul was an apostle sent by the Lord to minister the Word to the Philippians, Epaphroditus was an “apostle” or “sent-one” commissioned by the Philippians to minister financial support to Paul. Now Paul is sending him back, presumably with this letter.

Paul laid out high accolades in his threefold praise of Epaphroditus. First, he was a brother, obviously referring to their relationship as part of the family of God. Indeed, as a brother Epaphroditus was more important to him than his earthly family, of whom we hear little in Paul’s writings (see Acts 23:16). Second, this brother was Paul’s fellow-worker. Epaphroditus was not a freeloader but served at great personal expense and with much energy. Finally Paul calls him a “fellow soldier.” He was one who saw his ministry as a war against the principalities and powers of the unseen world (see Eph 6:12). I pray that the Lord would send forth more workers like Epaphroditus, who are willing to sacrifice and work hard for the Lord and His people (Matt 9:38).

He had apparently become quite ill and almost died. His fellow Christians back home heard about it and were very concerned. Possibly he became homesick as well. Further, he was worried about their reaction to his illness and this caused him additional stress. What an tremendous example of Philippians 2:1 where Christian fellowship is described: “Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion…”