Epaphroditus

Introduction:

Who was Epaphroditus? We know little about him.  We do know that: He was a faithful Christian, a servant of the church at Philippi and a loyal friend of Paul. In reading the Philippians account – Paul does not tell us who Epaphroditus was – he tells us what he did.

I.  2:29 - Why hold Epaphroditus in high regard?

A.    2:25 – Paul called Epaphroditus his brother in Christ.

1.    Their relationship was based on commonality:

a)    1 John 3:1 – same father; John 3:3-5 – same birth

b)    Acts 11:26 – same name; 1 Peter 1:3-4; 2 Tim. 4:8 – looked for the same reward.

2.    We need to focus more on what brings us together – not what divides. 

B.    2:25 – Epaphroditus was Paul’s fellow worker in Christ.

1.    Epaphroditus & Paul did not do the same things, but worked toward the same goal.

a)    We don’t have to be great in the eyes of men to be great in the eyes of God.

3.    As one of God’s children – you’re needed! You’re important.

C.   2:25 – Epaphroditus was Paul’s fellow soldier.

1.    We’re at war against the devil – 2 Tim. 2:3; 1 Peter 5:8

2.    We’re in this together!  We need to be working together!

3.    Remember we fight a common enemy – not each other!

II. Epaphroditus was sent on a mission to aid Paul.

A.    2:25 – Paul calls him a messenger.

1.    4:18 – Philippian brethren sent him w/a gift of money for Paul.

2.    To make this journey would have required sacrifice on his part.

B.    2:25 – he ministered to the needs of Paul.

1.    Mt. 20:28 – isn’t this the way of Christianity? 

a)    We must be willing to become servants for Christ.

2.    2:30 – Epaphroditus risked his life for the cause of Christ.

a)    Did this for Paul – who would have been unable to return the favor.  Epaphroditus expected nothing in return.

C.   2:30 – He served Paul faithfully in the face of his own death.

1.    Don’t know the illness – but it was serious.

2.    Danger/risk didn’t threaten their friendship – it strengthened it.

3.    How strong is our devotion for one another? Rom. 12:10?

Conclusion:

A.    2:29 – hold men like him in high regard. He

1.    Reached out when he had nothing to gain….much to lose.

2.    Sacrificed on behalf of another for no other reason than love!

B.    As admirable as Epaphroditus was – he would have been nothing apart from Jesus.

1.    Let Jesus help you turn your life around!

C.   Have you obeyed the gospel?