by Doreen Kajulu | 28 July 2024 08:46 pm07
Epaphroditus is a lesser-known but deeply inspiring figure in the New Testament. Mentioned in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he serves as a profound example of sacrificial service, loyalty to Christ, and the sustaining mercy of God.
Epaphroditus was a member of the church in Philippi, a community known for its generosity and partnership in Paul’s ministry (Philippians 1:5; 4:15–16). When Paul was imprisoned in Rome (around A.D. 60–62), the Philippians sent Epaphroditus to deliver financial support and minister to Paul’s needs.
“But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs.”
— Philippians 2:25, NIV
Paul uses four titles to describe Epaphroditus:
Traveling from Philippi to Rome (a journey of 700–800 miles) was dangerous, expensive, and exhausting. Yet Epaphroditus willingly undertook this mission, carrying the Philippians’ financial gift.
“I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.”
— Philippians 4:18, NIV
Here, Paul likens their gift to Old Testament sacrificial worship (cf. Leviticus 1:9). This highlights that their generosity was not just material support, but an act of worship.
While in Rome, Epaphroditus fell gravely ill—“almost to the point of death.” Despite his suffering, he remained focused on serving Paul and was distressed that the Philippians had heard of his illness.
“Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow.”
— Philippians 2:27, NIV
Paul doesn’t attribute his recovery to medicine or coincidence, but to God’s mercy. This is a strong theological point: divine healing is always an act of God’s compassion, not human merit.
Though Scripture does not specify the illness, the language implies a prolonged and severe sickness. Epaphroditus’s willingness to risk his health for Christ’s work mirrors Jesus’ words in John 15:13:
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
Paul urges the Philippians to receive Epaphroditus with joy and to honor him. This shows the early church’s practice of recognizing and affirming humble, faithful service—not only public ministry.
“So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him,
because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.”
— Philippians 2:29–30, NIV
The Greek phrase for “risked his life” (paraboleuomai) implies deliberate, courageous risk—like that of a gambler staking everything. Early church tradition holds that a group called the Parabolani later modeled their ministry of caring for the sick and dying after Epaphroditus.
a. Love That Reflects Christ
Epaphroditus showed Christlike love—putting others before himself (cf. Philippians 2:3–4). His actions reflect the mind of Christ, described earlier in Philippians 2:5–11.
b. God’s Sovereign Mercy
His healing reminds us that, though faithful believers may suffer, God remains merciful and sovereign. Healing is never guaranteed, but God does intervene in His timing and for His purposes.
c. Encouragement for Today’s Servants
Modern servants of God—pastors, missionaries, volunteers—can take encouragement from Epaphroditus’s example. Whether your role is visible or behind the scenes, God sees and values your service (Hebrews 6:10).
If you’re going through hardship—physically, emotionally, or spiritually—remember Epaphroditus. His life shows that even in weakness and obscurity, you can powerfully serve Christ. And when hope seems lost, God’s mercy can still prevail.
“All things are possible with God.” (Mark 10:27, NIV)
Shalom.
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2024/07/28/who-was-epaphroditus-in-the-bible-a-model-of-humble-service-and-gods-mercy/
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