Note 1 at Phil. 2:25: Paul had just stated that he planned on sending Timothy to the Philippians just as soon as he learned what his verdict was (v. 23). He was believing that he himself was going to be released and he would come to them in person (v. 24). Despite all this, Paul thought it was necessary to send Epaphroditus to them immediately with the latest news.

Note 2 at Phil. 2:25: Epaphroditus' name means "lovely." He is traditionally thought to have carried this letter to the Philippians (see the subscript at the end of Philippians). He is only mentioned by name twice in the New Testament-here, and in Philippians 4:18.

Epaphroditus was the Philippians' messenger (this verse) and bearer of things (probably finances) sent to the apostle Paul from the Philippians (Phil. 4:18). He was also a brother, companion in labour, and fellowsoldier with Paul in sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. He personally ministered to Paul's needs (this verse).

Epaphroditus became sick, nigh unto death (v. 27), because of the service he was rendering to Paul (v. 30). News of that had gotten back to his friends in Philippi, and Epaphroditus longed for his Philippian friends to hear the good news that he had been healed. This provided Paul with an added incentive for sending Epaphroditus back to Philippi. He could not only share news with them about Paul's situation, but he could comfort the Philippians' hearts when they saw he was well.

Paul shows the affection that he had for Epaphroditus when he said that if Epaphroditus had died, Paul would have had "sorrow upon sorrow" (v. 27). Epaphroditus must have been a very lovely Christian as his name implies.

Note 3 at Phil. 2:25: What labor did Paul do? It is true that at times Paul had supported himself and his companions through making tents (Acts 18:3 with Acts 20:34). But Paul was in prison now and had been for years. He was not doing physical labor.

Paul is speaking of the work of the ministry as labor. In 1 Timothy 5:17 Paul spoke of elders laboring in the Word and in doctrine. It takes effort to minister to others and keep ourselves in tune with the Lord so that we can be effective ministers. Those who are looking for an easy job should not consider the ministry.

Note 4 at Phil. 2:25: Part of Epaphroditus' ministry to Paul was financial. In Philippipans 4, verse 10, Paul said the Philippians' care for him had flourished again. Then in verse 15, Paul commends the Philippians for their financial contributions to his ministry. In verse 18 Paul speaks of receiving through Epaphroditus their financial aid once again.