As Paul continues his letter to the Philippians, he encourages them to accept and honor, both Timothy and Epaphroditus because of their faithful service. Paul first commends Timothy to the church at Philippi, because Timothy cares for them and will care for them, as Paul himself would care for them. He commends both men for their service. Both are examples for believers today, we too must be faithful in our service to one another. We must care for one another, in a selfless way. Both men had been faithful in gospel ministry. As believers, we should value and honor those who sacrificially serve the church.
Philippians is a wonderful letter of hopeful encouragement for believers who are struggling with their concern about Paul and his current circumstances, struggling with their thinking about several different issues including: assurance, perseverance, the gospel and mission, partnership, fellowship and unity, and joy. Paul offers specific theological foundations for right thinking about engaging one another in the church. This foundation begins with a right understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he came to accomplish. It is also built on a right approach to the gospel and gospel ministry. This church needs to understand the importance of working together for the advance of the gospel in the church and in their community.
