MARCH 15, Philippians 2:19-30

In any big project, nobody can work alone. It would require a team of workers. What more for the Gospel work? Paul had many co-labourers and he wrote about two outstanding ones in this particular letter - Timothy and Epaphroditus.

Young Timothy was like a son to Paul, co-labouring with him in evangelism. It was Paul’s intention to pass the baton to him – meaning that Timothy would succeed Paul as a spiritual leader when he matures. Timothy was commended for having the mind of Christ like Paul did. He loved and cared for the people of God and was every inch a pastor at heart. Most of all, he was faithful. Unlike some who were distracted by worldly interests, Timothy stayed loyal to Christ. He was worthy of being groomed to be a church pastor.

Epaphroditus was sent by the Philippian church to take care of Paul so that Paul could continue to pray and to teach and counsel the churches in writing. He braved the treacherous journey of thousands of kilometres to be with Paul in prison to minister to his needs. Later, Epaphroditus fell seriously sick and nearly died. He felt sad that the church and Paul had to worry about his health. To set everyone’s mind at ease, Paul sent him home. Paul told the church to welcome him with gladness because he had accomplished his mission. Paul regarded him as a worthy brother in Christ, a co labourer in the Lord and fellow soldier in spiritual battle.

Follow the qualities of godly men as shown below, BUT strike out the wrong qualities:

Timothy and Epaphroditus were:

Thought: We can learn much from godly men.

Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, thank You for the godly church fore-fathers who are such good Christian examples. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.