Epaphroditus

Bible Reading: Philippians 2:25-30

I recently heard Dr Jonathan Murphy, the senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas, speak about Epaphroditus from Philippians 2:25-30.  What he said made a lot of sense to me. 

While talking about Epaphroditus, Paul gives him five complementary terms: my brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, the Philippian Church's messenger, and one who ministered to his (Paul's) needs.  Epaphroditus was a Philippian believer sent by the Philippian church with a gift to minister to Paul while he was under house arrest in Rome.  Paul was, after all, writing to the church in Philippi, and they knew the man very well.  Murphy said the Holy Spirit has recorded it only for our benefit!  

And, we can learn many lessons from the life of Epaphroditus.

Paul called him a brother, equal to himself.  In a way, both were ‘apostles,’ that is, ‘sent ones.’ Jesus sent Paul, and the church in Philippi sent Epaphroditus.  Even though he was sent to serve him, Paul called him a fellow worker and a fellow soldier.  

God values faithfulness in service, even when it involves simply serving others.  He sacrificially undertook the long and dangerous journey from Philippi to Rome to serve Paul.  

The church needs not only Pauls but also people like Epaphroditus.  Christian service may involve personal risk and sacrifice, but we have to put others’ needs above our own comfort.  True greatness in God’s kingdom often looks like humble obedience, doing what God asks without seeking recognition.  No wonder Paul instructed the church to “receive him…with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem” (Philippians 2:29).

The question we have to ask ourselves today is, can you and I be an Epaphroditus in our church and in our community?

Our ego and the need for recognition often hold us back from being an Epaphroditus.  

Our need for honour and titles stops us from being useful. We can serve God and be used by God when we are ready to obey Him in humility.  Some think that we cannot serve God because we cannot preach or sing. Jesus teaches us in Matthew 25:31-46 that whatever little things we do for others are done for Him.

My friend, it is time to reflect on what is truly important to us: honour and titles or humble service.  Let not our ego stop us from being a fellow worker and a fellow soldier in God’s vineyard.  God is looking for people like Epaphroditus today.  Can you be that person?

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, I humble myself at Your feet.  Help me serve the people around me always with the love and concern You have for them.  Amen.