Epaphroditus

by: Geoffrey Cox

Epaphroditus appears only in this letter, but in these few verses Paul paints a portrait of a lovely rounded character, one we would do well to meditate on and copy.

He is shown in two aspects: in his relationship to Paul, and in his relationship to the Philippian church. For Paul, he is “my brother, fellow-worker, fellow-soldier.” Epaphroditus was obviously someone to whom Paul felt close, someone Paul trusted deeply. And it was a deserved trust. Epaphroditus was a brother, and a worker for the gospel in a time when that involved truly hard work. He was a soldier of the cross when there was real fighting to be done, when that could cost you your life. Perhaps the greatest compliment paid to Epaphroditus was that Paul regarded him as one with himself, an equally committed co-worker in ministry. In one of the C. S. Lewis’ Narnia stories, Aslan, to the great delight of a young lion, talks of “us lions.” Paul shares the credit as much as he shares the ministry.

For the Philippians, Epaphroditus is their messenger, sent by them to express their love by delivering their help for Paul’s needs, even risking his life to complete his task. In his activity Epaphroditus is a wonderful role model of Christian service. In his character, he is a caring, sensitive person, sorry to cause distress, not wanting anyone to fuss about him.

Take some time to thank God for an Epaphroditus in your church. As the apostle says, “Honor such people.”