Bible Study

Philippians 2:19-30
 Timothy and Epaphroditus
• Timothy : Travelled along with Paul in his missionary journeys and Paul
was his mentor
• Epaphroditus: Possibly a Philippian church believer. The Philippian
church sent him to bring gifts for Paul when he was in prison (Phil 4:18).
Purpose of sending Timothy and Epaphroditus

• He sent Timothy so that he may know what is happening in the Philippian

church
• He sent Epaphroditus so that Philippians may be comforted on seeing him
• Epaphroditus also longed to visit the Philippians
• Paul also wanted Timothy to nurture the Philippian church
 Timothy
• Paul cared so much for the Philippian church that he was willing to send
his close companion to them
• Paul sends Timothy as he is having the same mindset as Paul
• Timothy also took interest in the well being of Philippian church rather
than satisfying his self-interests
 Timothy
• Timothy has got the characteristics of a good leader and Paul also certifies
him to the Philippian church
• Paul mentions Timothy is like his son
• Paul himself wishes to come to the Philippian church and he has hope in
the Lord that he will be released from prison and get an opportunity to
visit them
 Epaphroditus
• Paul mentions three types of relation he had with Epaphroditus:
 Brother: Took care of Paul’s needs
 Worker: He has worked with Paul in his ministry
 Soldier: He also like Paul is involved in battle
• Epaphroditus was very sick and close to death but God healed him
• Epaphroditus also was eager to visit the Philippians so that they may be
cheered
 Epaphroditus
• Paul was also very concerned on the health of Epaphroditus that he said
God also had compassion on him that his sorrows may not be further
increased.
• Paul was willing to send Epaphroditus to them and Paul’s joy will be
increased when the Philippians are happy
• Paul asks the Philippians to give honour to Epaphroditus. Paul gives due
credit to the work done by Epaphroditus that he risked his life for Christ.
 Summary
• Do we have a caring nature like Paul who cared for the Philippian church?
• Are we like Timothy who gave importance to the will of Christ and other
people’s interests rather than his self-interests?
• Do we have a helping tendency like Epaphroditus who helped Paul when
he was in need?