RPG Adults
EPAPHRODITUS: A FELLOW SOLDIER
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21
Philippians 2:25-30
Philippians 4:10-18
“…having received
of Epaphroditus the things
which were sent from you…”
EPAPHRODITUS: A FELLOW SOLDIER
Another hero is Epaphroditus who was the trusted delegate of the Christian community at Philippi, sent to deliver their gift to Paul during Paul’s first Roman imprisonment. Paul commended Epaphroditus with high honours. His journey was no small task. Philippi was far from Rome, requiring him to cross seas and climb mountains. Yet Epaphroditus bore the hardships faithfully, not for personal gain, but as a brother-in-Christ, serving Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, who might well have been instrumental in his own conversion.
Paul described him as a companion in labour. Epaphroditus shared the burdens of the ministry, lifting the weight alongside Paul. He did not pursue his own agenda, but supported the Spirit’s leading upon Paul, making their partnership fruitful. Paul’s burdens became his burdens, Paul’s struggles his struggles, and Paul’s solutions his own. What comfort it must have been for Paul to have such a co-labourer by his side.
He was also a fellow soldier in the advancement of the Gospel and in the defence of the faith. The spiritual battle was fierce, with attacks from both without and within the church. Epaphroditus stood as a comrade, willing to risk his life for the sake of Christ, faithfully serving under the Great Commander and standing beside Paul in the fight.
Above all, Epaphroditus devoted his life to the ministry of the Word, especially among the Philippian believers. He brought them the Word of Life, teaching them all that Christ commanded. His service was primarily unto the Lord Jesus Christ, meeting both the spiritual needs of the people and the practical needs of Paul.
His example reminds us of the importance of faithful co-labourers in the Gospel, those who serve not for recognition, but for Christ, willing to endure hardship, share burdens and risk all for the sake of the kingdom.
THOUGHT: Am I a true co-labourer of my pastor and fellow servants of Christ, sharing their burdens for the Gospel?
PRAYER: Father, help me to see the needs of my brethren, that I may serve them faithfully. Grant me the heart of a fellow soldier, willing to labour and sacrifice for Thy glory.