Philippians 2:25-30 Bible in Basic English But it seemed to me necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, who has taken part with me in the work and in the fight, and your servant, sent by you for help in my need; Because his heart was with you all, and he was greatly troubled because you had news that he was ill: For in fact he was ill almost to death: but God had mercy on him; and not only on him but on me, so that I might not have grief on grief. I have sent him, then, the more gladly, so that when you see him again, you may be happy and I may have the less sorrow. So take him to your hearts in the Lord with all joy, and give honour to such as he is: Because for the work of Christ he was near to death, putting his life in danger to make your care for me complete. Pauls faith that he was to be released has reached the point where he is sending the other Believers with him out to minister in other places. Epaphroditus was sent by the Believers in Philippi to deliver the gifts to Paul and to assist Paul. Paul commends him back to the Philippians as a brother, fellow-worker, and a fellow-soldier in the ministry calling him a servant ἀπόστολος (apostolos) Ambassador (Strong - same word translated Apostle). Remember that in 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul had pointed out that all Believers are ambassadors in the anointing so he is not elevating Epaphroditus above any other Believer but pointing out his service in the ministry. It is probable that word of Epaphroditus sickeness had cause some in Philippi to conclude that he was more of a burden to Paul than a help. Or that the big city had brought about his failure to be a constant help to Paul. So, Paul takes opportunity to explain that Epaphroditus had truly been sick, near death actually, but God had healed him. Even in ministry, even while serving with Paul, Believers often have difficulty receiving (reaching out and taking) healing. Paul surely taught that healing was a finished work of Jesus, and he certainly must have laid hands on Epaphroditus; but the sick must realize it is not our faith, but the faith of Jesus that enables it to be manifest! Jesus was hindered in the manifestation of miracles in His hometown because of unbelief. We can have prayers said and hands laid on us until it rubs all our hair off and not be healed if we fail to Only Believe! Pauls primary concern was always the spiritual development of the Believers. He wanted the conclusion of the sending of Epaphroditus to assist him to be a reason of rejoicing and not the cause of division. Some sort of alienation had occurred and Paul wanted to overcome evil intentions with the goodness of grace. Paul emphasizes that Epaphroditus had Thrown down a stake, or gambled his very life for the cause of the Gospel and should be treated with due respect. He had fulfilled the ministry of the Philippian Believers in a personal and effective manner; he went when they could not. We are ALL called to be apostles...to BE as Jesus IS in this world! It may not be to go but as you are going about your daily routine, make disciples... Matthew 28:20 Love, joy and peace in the fullness of grace! We invite you to visit and LIKE our Ministry page at:https://facebook/FullnessofGraceMinistryInternational
Posted on: Wed, 05 Mar 2014 00:59:56 +0000
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