Why Paul Considered Epaphroditus Successful

The Philippian believers ostensibly sent Epaphroditus to minister to Paul on their behalf during his time in prison (Phil 2:25; 4:18). However, things did not turn out as intended; Epaphroditus’ near-fatal sickness appears to have prevented him from ministering as planned. Does this make him a failure? Did the Philippians’ “gift” cause Paul more hardship? Paul addresses this question in Philippians 2:25–29, and his answer would directly affect how the Philippians received Epaphroditus when he returned.

In the first-century culture of shame and honor, the situation described in Philippians 2:25–30 could have had a devastating effect on the Philippians’ relationship with Paul and Epaphroditus’ relationship with his church. Imagine the embarrassment of sending a highly expected gift only to have it arrive broken or spoiled. The recipient now has the added burden of returning it or informing the giver of the unfortunate outcome. The recipient’s response completely determines how the situation is viewed by the givers.

Rather than castigating the church or criticizing the messenger, Paul gave some of his highest praise to Epaphroditus. He called him a “fellow worker and fellow soldier,” making him sound more like a fellow apostle than a servant (Phil 2:25). The description of him as “my brother” also makes him sound more dear to Paul than Timothy was, who was “like a child” to Paul (Phil 2:22).

Paul’s choice to honor Epaphroditus’ service left the Philippian believers little choice but to do the same. Paul commanded them to honor Epaphroditus, making him the benchmark against which to measure other Christian ministers (Phil 2:29). This response determined the future stability of Paul’s relationship with the Philippians. It also removed any possibility that Epaphroditus’ self-sacrifice could be misinterpreted as a cause for shame or dishonor.

Steven E. Runge

Further Reading

Philippians 2:25–30 HDC:P

Honor and Shame DNTB

Epaphroditus BECNT:P