Bible Word of the Day
Epaphroditus (Example of a Strong Christian Brother)
Meaning
Epaphroditus was an unknown Christian brother. He served not only as a messenger between Paul and the church, but also as someone who risked his life to help others and further the Gospel of Christ. One of the important points of Epaphroditus’s character is he selflessly served others for the Gospel’s sake. He put the needs of others ahead of himself and served others as honoring God. And we can see this in his response when he became very sick.
While serving the Apostle Paul, Epaphroditus became ill almost to the point of death. However, despite his condition, he was distressed when he discovered the church in Philippi heard of his illness and worried over him. Therefore, because of his faith Epaphroditus was a strong brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier in the Gospel of Christ Jesus our Lord. He was someone who “did not love their lives to death”, this is an expression found in the book of Revelation and refers to Christians who would gladly give up their lives in the service of Jesus.
“Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.” (Book of Philippians 4:18)
“Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need; since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. For indeed he was sick almost unto death; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem; because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me.” (Book of Philippians 2:25-30)