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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Philippians 2:25 But I thought it necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my needs.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/philippians/2-25.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/6/50_Php_02_25.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Philippians 2:25 - Epaphroditus Commended" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="But I thought it necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my needs." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/philippians/2-25.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/philippians/2-25.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/philippians/">Philippians</a> > <a href="/philippians/2.htm">Chapter 2</a> > Verse 25</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad5.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/philippians/2-24.htm" title="Philippians 2:24">◄</a> Philippians 2:25 <a href="/philippians/2-26.htm" title="Philippians 2:26">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/philippians/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/philippians/2.htm">New International Version</a> But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. <a href="/nlt/philippians/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> Meanwhile, I thought I should send Epaphroditus back to you. He is a true brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier. And he was your messenger to help me in my need. <a href="/esv/philippians/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need, <a href="/bsb/philippians/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> But I thought it necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my needs. <a href="/blb/philippians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Now I esteemed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need, <a href="/kjv/philippians/2.htm">King James Bible</a> Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. <a href="/nkjv/philippians/2.htm">New King James Version</a> Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need; <a href="/nasb_/philippians/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> But I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need, <a href="/nasb/philippians/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> But I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need; <a href="/nasb77/philippians/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> But I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need; <a href="/lsb/philippians/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> But I regarded it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need; <a href="/amp/philippians/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> However, I thought it necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, [who has been] my brother and companion and fellow soldier, who was also sent as your messenger to take care of my needs. <a href="/csb/philippians/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> But I considered it necessary to send you Epaphroditus —my brother, coworker, and fellow soldier, as well as your messenger and minister to my need — <a href="/hcsb/philippians/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> But I considered it necessary to send you Epaphroditus—my brother, coworker, and fellow soldier, as well as your messenger and minister to my need— <a href="/asv/philippians/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> But I counted it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow-worker and fellow-soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need; <a href="/cev/philippians/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I think I ought to send my dear friend Epaphroditus back to you. He is a follower and a worker and a soldier of the Lord, just as I am. You sent him to look after me, <a href="/erv/philippians/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> But I counted it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow-worker and fellow-soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need; <a href="/gwt/philippians/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> I feel that I must send Epaphroditus-my brother, coworker, and fellow soldier-back to you. You sent him as your personal representative to help me in my need. <a href="/gnt/philippians/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> I have thought it necessary to send to you our brother Epaphroditus, who has worked and fought by my side and who has served as your messenger in helping me. <a href="/isv/philippians/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> Meanwhile, I thought it best to send Epaphroditus—my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and minister to my need—back to you. <a href="/msb/philippians/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> But I thought it necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my needs. <a href="/net/philippians/2.htm">NET Bible</a> But for now I have considered it necessary to send Epaphroditus to you. For he is my brother, coworker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to me in my need. <a href="/nheb/philippians/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> But I counted it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, and your apostle and servant of my need; <a href="/wbt/philippians/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor, and fellow-soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. <a href="/wey/philippians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Yet I deem it important to send Epaphroditus to you now--he is my brother and comrade both in labour and in arms, and is your messenger who has ministered to my needs. <a href="/web/philippians/2.htm">World English Bible</a> But I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, and your apostle and servant of my need, <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/philippians/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And I thought [it] necessary to send to you Epaphroditus—my brother and fellow-workman and fellow-soldier, and your apostle and servant to my need, <a href="/blb/philippians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Now I esteemed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need, <a href="/ylt/philippians/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And I thought it necessary Epaphroditus -- my brother, and fellow-workman, and fellow-soldier, and your apostle and servant to my need -- to send unto you, <a href="/slt/philippians/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And I thought necessary Epaphroditus, my brother, and cooperator, and fellow-soldier, and your sent, and workman of my necessity, be sent to you.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/philippians/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow labourer, and fellow soldier, but your apostle, and he that hath ministered to my wants. <a href="/cpdv/philippians/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Now I have considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and co-worker, and fellow soldier, and an attendant to my needs, but your Apostle. <a href="/nabre/philippians/2.htm">New American Bible</a> With regard to Epaphroditus, my brother and co-worker and fellow soldier, your messenger and minister in my need, I consider it necessary to send him to you. <a href="/nrsvce/philippians/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Still, I think it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus—my brother and co-worker and fellow soldier, your messenger and minister to my need;<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/philippians/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> But right now I am forced through circumstances to send to you Epaphroditus, a brother, and assistant and co-worker with me, but he is also your apostle and one who ministers to my wants. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/philippians/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But now a matter has compelled me to send Epaphroditus to you, a brother who is a helper and worker with me, but your Apostle and a Minister of my needs,<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/philippians/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Yet I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother and companion in labor and fellow-soldier, but your apostle, who also ministered to my want, <a href="/godbey/philippians/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> But I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow-laborer and fellow-soldier, and apostle and the minister of my necessity; <a href="/haweis/philippians/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> But I have thought it necessary to send unto you Epaphroditus, my brother, and fellow-labourer, and fellow-soldier, but your messenger, and the minister who supplied my want. <a href="/mace/philippians/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> however I thought it necessary to send you Epaphroditus my brother, my collegue in the ministry, and my fellow-soldier, whom you had sent to supply my wants: <a href="/wey/philippians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Yet I deem it important to send Epaphroditus to you now--he is my brother and comrade both in labour and in arms, and is your messenger who has ministered to my needs. <a href="/worrell/philippians/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> Yet I deemed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and fellow-worker, and fellow-soldier, but your messenger and minister to my need; <a href="/worsley/philippians/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> However, I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother, and fellow-laborer, and fellow-soldier, but your messenger, who ministred to my wants: <a href="/parallel/philippians/2-25.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mXomUhcrPbg?start=459" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/philippians/2.htm">Epaphroditus Commended</a> 24And I trust in the Lord that I myself will come soon. 25<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">But</a> <a href="/greek/2233.htm" title="2233: hēgēsamēn (V-AIM-1S) -- (a) To lead, (b) To think, be of opinion, suppose, consider. ">I thought it</a> <a href="/greek/316.htm" title="316: Anankaion (Adj-NNS) -- Necessary, essential, intimate, right, proper. From anagke; necessary; by implication, close.">necessary</a> <a href="/greek/3992.htm" title="3992: pempsai (V-ANA) -- To send, transmit, permit to go, put forth. ">to send back</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">to</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymas (PPro-A2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you</a> <a href="/greek/1891.htm" title="1891: Epaphroditon (N-AMS) -- From epi and Aphrodite; Epaphroditus, a Christian.">Epaphroditus,</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">my</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/80.htm" title="80: adelphon (N-AMS) -- A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote.">brother,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/4904.htm" title="4904: synergon (Adj-AMS) -- A fellow worker, associate, helper. From a presumed compound of sun and the base of ergon; a co-laborer, i.e. Coadjutor.">fellow worker,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/4961.htm" title="4961: systratiōtēn (N-AMS) -- A fellow soldier (in the Christian faith). From sun and stratiotes; a co-campaigner, i.e. an associate in Christian toil.">fellow soldier,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">who is also</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymōn (PPro-G2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">your</a> <a href="/greek/652.htm" title="652: apostolon (N-AMS) -- From apostello; a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ.">messenger</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3011.htm" title="3011: leitourgon (N-AMS) -- From a derivative of laos and ergon; a public servant, i.e. A functionary in the Temple or Gospel, or a worshipper or benefactor.">minister</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">to my</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5532.htm" title="5532: chreias (N-GFS) -- From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution.">needs.</a> 26For he has been longing for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm">2 Corinthians 8:23</a> As for Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker among you. As for our brothers, they are messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ. <a href="/philemon/1-2.htm">Philemon 1:2</a> to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church that meets at your house: <a href="/colossians/4-7.htm">Colossians 4:7-9</a> Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a beloved brother, a faithful minister, and a fellow servant in the Lord. / I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know about us, and that he may encourage your hearts. / With him I am sending Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here. <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-2.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:2</a> We sent Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for God in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, <a href="/romans/16-21.htm">Romans 16:21</a> Timothy, my fellow worker, sends you greetings, as do Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater, my fellow countrymen. <a href="/acts/19-22.htm">Acts 19:22</a> He sent two of his helpers, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia, while he stayed for a time in the province of Asia. <a href="/2_timothy/4-12.htm">2 Timothy 4:12</a> Tychicus, however, I have sent to Ephesus. <a href="/1_corinthians/16-10.htm">1 Corinthians 16:10-11</a> If Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, just as I am. / No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in peace so that he can return to me, for I am expecting him along with the brothers. <a href="/2_corinthians/1-1.htm">2 Corinthians 1:1</a> Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God in Corinth, together with all the saints throughout Achaia: <a href="/ephesians/6-21.htm">Ephesians 6:21-22</a> Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know about me and what I am doing. / I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know about us, and that he may encourage your hearts. <a href="/1_peter/5-12.htm">1 Peter 5:12</a> Through Silvanus, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. <a href="/acts/15-25.htm">Acts 15:25-26</a> So we all agreed to choose men to send to you along with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, / men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. <a href="/romans/16-9.htm">Romans 16:9</a> Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my beloved Stachys. <a href="/2_corinthians/8-18.htm">2 Corinthians 8:18-19</a> Along with Titus we are sending the brother who is praised by all the churches for his work in the gospel. / More than that, this brother was chosen by the churches to accompany us with the gracious offering we administer to honor the Lord Himself and to show our eagerness to help. <a href="/1_corinthians/3-5.htm">1 Corinthians 3:5-9</a> What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? They are servants through whom you believed, as the Lord has assigned to each his role. / I planted the seed and Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. / So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. ...</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.Epaphroditus.<a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Philippians 4:18</a> But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.my brother.<a href="/2_corinthians/2-13.htm">2 Corinthians 2:13</a> I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother: but taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia.<a href="/2_corinthians/8-22.htm">2 Corinthians 8:22</a> And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.<a href="/philemon/1-1.htm">Philemon 1:1</a> Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,companion.<a href="/philippians/4-3.htm">Philippians 4:3</a> And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.<a href="/1_corinthians/3-9.htm">1 Corinthians 3:9</a> For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.<a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm">2 Corinthians 8:23</a> Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.fellowsoldier.<a href="/2_timothy/2-3.htm">2 Timothy 2:3,4</a> Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ… <a href="/philemon/1-2.htm">Philemon 1:2</a> And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house:but.<a href="/proverbs/25-13.htm">Proverbs 25:13</a> As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.<a href="/john/17-18.htm">John 17:18</a> As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.<a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm">2 Corinthians 8:23</a> Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.and he.<a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Philippians 4:18</a> But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.<a href="/2_corinthians/11-7.htm">2 Corinthians 11:7-9</a> Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely? … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ephesians/1-1.htm">Apostle</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-13.htm">Arms</a> <a href="/philippians/2-20.htm">Care</a> <a href="/galatians/2-3.htm">Companion</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm">Comrade</a> <a href="/philippians/2-6.htm">Counted</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/12-23.htm">Deem</a> <a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Epaphroditus</a> <a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Epaphrodi'tus</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-25.htm">Fellow</a> <a href="/philemon/1-2.htm">Fellowsoldier</a> <a href="/philemon/1-2.htm">Fellow-Soldier</a> <a href="/romans/16-21.htm">Fellow-Workman</a> <a href="/philippians/1-30.htm">Fight</a> <a href="/philippians/2-1.htm">Help</a> <a href="/philippians/2-3.htm">Important</a> <a href="/philippians/2-12.htm">Labour</a> <a href="/galatians/4-14.htm">Messenger</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-21.htm">Minister</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-20.htm">Ministered</a> <a href="/philippians/1-24.htm">Necessary</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Need</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Needs</a> <a href="/philippians/2-18.htm">Part</a> <a href="/galatians/2-9.htm">Seemed</a> <a href="/philippians/2-7.htm">Servant</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-7.htm">Soldier</a> <a href="/acts/27-27.htm">Supposed</a> <a href="/philippians/2-2.htm">Think</a> <a href="/philippians/2-6.htm">Thought</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-9.htm">Wants</a> <a href="/philippians/2-17.htm">Work</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm">Worker</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/colossians/1-1.htm">Apostle</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-12.htm">Arms</a> <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Care</a> <a href="/philippians/4-3.htm">Companion</a> <a href="/philemon/1-2.htm">Comrade</a> <a href="/philippians/3-7.htm">Counted</a> <a href="/malachi/3-15.htm">Deem</a> <a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Epaphroditus</a> <a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Epaphrodi'tus</a> <a href="/philippians/4-3.htm">Fellow</a> <a href="/philemon/1-2.htm">Fellowsoldier</a> <a href="/philemon/1-2.htm">Fellow-Soldier</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-2.htm">Fellow-Workman</a> <a href="/colossians/2-1.htm">Fight</a> <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Help</a> <a href="/exodus/18-22.htm">Important</a> <a href="/colossians/3-23.htm">Labour</a> <a href="/revelation/2-1.htm">Messenger</a> <a href="/philippians/4-16.htm">Minister</a> <a href="/colossians/2-19.htm">Ministered</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-9.htm">Necessary</a> <a href="/philippians/4-11.htm">Need</a> <a href="/philippians/4-11.htm">Needs</a> <a href="/philippians/3-10.htm">Part</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-10.htm">Seemed</a> <a href="/philippians/3-12.htm">Servant</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-3.htm">Soldier</a> <a href="/revelation/3-1.htm">Supposed</a> <a href="/philippians/3-4.htm">Think</a> <a href="/philippians/4-7.htm">Thought</a> <a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Wants</a> <a href="/philippians/2-30.htm">Work</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-2.htm">Worker</a><div class="vheading2">Philippians 2</div>1. <a href="/philippians/2-1.htm">Paul exhorts them to unity, and to all humbleness of mind, by the example of Christ's humility;</a> 12. <a href="/philippians/2-12.htm">to a careful proceeding in the way of salvation, that they be as lights to a wicked world,</a> 16. <a href="/philippians/2-16.htm">and comforts to him their apostle, who is now ready to be offered up to God.</a> 19. <a href="/philippians/2-19.htm">He hopes to send Timothy to them, and Epaphroditus also.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 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width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/philippians/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/philippians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/philippians/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>But I thought it necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus Paul expresses a personal decision, indicating the importance of Epaphroditus's return to the Philippians. Epaphroditus was sent by the Philippian church to assist Paul, likely during his imprisonment in Rome. This reflects the early Christian practice of sending representatives to support missionaries and leaders. The decision to send him back underscores the mutual care and concern within the early church community.my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier Paul uses familial and military metaphors to describe Epaphroditus, highlighting the close bond and shared mission in the gospel. "Brother" emphasizes the spiritual kinship among believers. "Fellow worker" indicates collaboration in spreading the gospel, a theme prevalent in Paul's letters (e.g., <a href="/1_corinthians/3-9.htm">1 Corinthians 3:9</a>). "Fellow soldier" suggests the spiritual warfare aspect of Christian ministry, as seen in <a href="/ephesians/6-10.htm">Ephesians 6:10-18</a>, where Paul discusses the armor of God.who is also your messenger Epaphroditus served as a representative of the Philippian church, entrusted with delivering their gifts and support to Paul. The term "messenger" (Greek: apostolos) can also mean "apostle," though here it likely refers to his role as a delegate. This reflects the early church's practice of sending envoys to maintain connections and support among distant congregations.and minister to my needs Epaphroditus's role included providing for Paul's physical and possibly emotional needs during his imprisonment. This service exemplifies the Christian principle of mutual aid and support, as seen in <a href="/galatians/6-2.htm">Galatians 6:2</a>, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." The term "minister" (Greek: leitourgos) suggests a sacred service, indicating that such acts of support were seen as a form of worship and service to God.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> The apostle who wrote the letter to the Philippians. He is in prison at the time of writing and is sending Epaphroditus back to the Philippians. 2. <a href="/topical/e/epaphroditus.htm">Epaphroditus</a> A member of the Philippian church who was sent to assist Paul. He is described as a brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, indicating his close relationship and shared mission with Paul. 3. <a href="/topical/p/philippian_church.htm">Philippian Church</a> The recipients of the letter. They had sent Epaphroditus to Paul with gifts and support. 4. <a href="/topical/r/rome.htm">Rome</a> The likely location where Paul is imprisoned and from where he is writing this letter. 5. <a href="/topical/m/messenger_and_minister.htm">Messenger and Minister</a> Epaphroditus is described as a messenger and minister, highlighting his role in delivering the Philippians' support to Paul and serving Paul's needs.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_value_of_partnership_in_ministry.htm">The Value of Partnership in Ministry</a> Paul’s description of Epaphroditus as a brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier underscores the importance of partnership and collaboration in ministry. We are called to work together in unity for the Gospel. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_service_and_sacrifice.htm">The Role of Service and Sacrifice</a> Epaphroditus’s willingness to serve Paul, even at great personal risk, exemplifies the sacrificial nature of Christian service. We should be willing to serve others selflessly, following Christ’s example. <a href="/topical/r/recognition_and_appreciation_of_fellow_believers.htm">Recognition and Appreciation of Fellow Believers</a> Paul’s commendation of Epaphroditus highlights the importance of recognizing and appreciating the contributions of others in the faith community. We should encourage and honor those who labor for the Lord. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_communication_and_support.htm">The Importance of Communication and Support</a> The Philippians’ support of Paul through Epaphroditus demonstrates the vital role of communication and support within the body of Christ. We should actively seek ways to support and uplift one another.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_philippians_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Philippians 2</a> <a href="/q/who_was_epaphroditus_in_the_bible.htm">Who was Epaphroditus in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/types_of_angels.htm">What are the different types of angels?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_christianization_mean.htm">What are ministering spirits?</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_ecclesiasticism.htm">What defines ecclesiasticism?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/philippians/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(25) Epaphroditus.--The name was often shortened into Epaphras. But it was a common name; hence any identification with the Epaphras of <a href="/colossians/1-7.htm" title=" As you also learned of Epaphras our dear fellow servant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;">Colossians 1:7</a>; <a href="/colossians/4-12.htm" title=" Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, salutes you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.">Colossians 4:12</a>; <a href="/philemon/1-23.htm" title="There salute you Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus;">Philemon 1:23</a>, is, to say the least, extremely precarious. It is hardly likely that one who was a native Colossian would be a resident and chosen messenger of Philippi. The three titles here given him are closely joined together in the original, and form a kind of climax--"brother" in a common Christianity, "fellow-worker" in the service of Christ, "fellow-soldier" in the "hardness" of daring and suffering, which the warfare of the Cross implies. (See <a href="/context/2_timothy/2-3.htm" title="You therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.">2Timothy 2:3-4</a>.)Your messenger.--The original word is apostle; and by some interpreters, ancient and modern, it has been thought that it is intended here to designate the chief pastor--or, in the modern sense, the bishop--of the Philippian Church (as probably is the case with the "angels" of the churches in the Apocalypse); and the word "your" is then explained in the same sense as the words "of the Gentiles" in <a href="/romans/11-13.htm" title="For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify my office:">Romans 11:13</a>. But this is very unlikely, (1) because there seems to be no example to confirm the statement that the chief pastor of a church was ever called its "apostle;" (2) because the character of the apostolate, being general and evangelistic, was very different from that of the local and pastoral episcopate; (3) because in this passage the word is inseparably connected with the following "and minister to my needs," showing the latter phrase to be explanatory of the previous word; (4) because the style of commendation in <a href="/philippians/2-29.htm" title="Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:">Philippians 2:29</a> is hardly suitable as applied to one whose office alone should have commanded respect. Our version is, therefore, correct in rendering it "messenger," just as in <a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm" title="Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellow helper concerning you: or our brothers be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.">2Corinthians 8:23</a> ("the messengers of the churches"), where there is a similar reference to the transmission of alms. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/philippians/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 25. - Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus; translate, but I count it necessary. Ἡγησάμην here and in Ver. 28 are epistolary aorists; they point, that is, to the time of reading the letter, not to that of writing it; and are therefore to be rendered by the English present. Epaphroditus is mentioned only in this Epistle. Epaphras is the contracted form, but the name is a common one, and there is no evidence of his identity with the Epaphras of Colossians and Philemon. He seems to have been the bearer of this Epistle. St. Paul felt that to come himself, or even to send Timothy, might possibly not be in his power; he thought it necessary, a matter of duty, to send Epaphroditus at once. My brother, and companion in labor, and fellow-soldier. Mark how the epithets rise one above another; they imply fellowship in religion, in work, in endurance. But your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. "Your" refers to both clauses; "your messenger, and (your) minister to my need." Epaphroditus had brought to St. Paul the contributions of the Philippians (<a href="/philippians/4-18.htm">Philippians 4:18</a>). Some think that the word rendered "messenger" (ἀπόστολος, literally "apostle") means that Epaphroditus was the apostle, that is, the bishop of the Philippian Church. It may be so (comp. <a href="/philippians/4-3.htm">Philippians 4:3</a>, and note); but there is no proof of the establishment of any diocesan bishops, except St. James at Jerusalem, at so early a period. The word ἀπόστολος. both here and in <a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm">2 Corinthians 8:23</a> (ἀπόσψολος ἐκκλησιῶν), is probably used in its first meaning in the sense of messenger, or delegate. The Greek word for minister, λειτουργός, seems to imply, like λειτουργία in Ver. 30, that St. Paul regarded the alms of the Philippians as an offering to God, ministered by Epaphroditus. (But see <a href="/romans/13-6.htm">Romans 13:6</a>, also <a href="/2_kings/4-43.htm">2 Kings 4:43</a>; <a href="/2_kings/6-15.htm">2 Kings 6:15</a>, etc. in the Greek.) <a href="/commentaries/philippians/2-25.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>But δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. I thought [it] ἡγησάμην (hēgēsamēn) Verb - Aorist Indicative Middle - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2233.htm">Strong's 2233: </a> (a) To lead, (b) To think, be of opinion, suppose, consider. necessary Ἀναγκαῖον (Anankaion) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_316.htm">Strong's 316: </a> Necessary, essential, intimate, right, proper. From anagke; necessary; by implication, close. to send back πέμψαι (pempsai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_3992.htm">Strong's 3992: </a> To send, transmit, permit to go, put forth. to πρὸς (pros) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward. you ὑμᾶς (hymas) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. Epaphroditus, Ἐπαφρόδιτον (Epaphroditon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1891.htm">Strong's 1891: </a> From epi and Aphrodite; Epaphroditus, a Christian. my μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. brother, ἀδελφὸν (adelphon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_80.htm">Strong's 80: </a> A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote. fellow worker, συνεργὸν (synergon) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4904.htm">Strong's 4904: </a> A fellow worker, associate, helper. From a presumed compound of sun and the base of ergon; a co-laborer, i.e. Coadjutor. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. fellow soldier, συστρατιώτην (systratiōtēn) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4961.htm">Strong's 4961: </a> A fellow soldier (in the Christian faith). From sun and stratiotes; a co-campaigner, i.e. an associate in Christian toil. [who is] also δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. your ὑμῶν (hymōn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. messenger ἀπόστολον (apostolon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_652.htm">Strong's 652: </a> From apostello; a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. minister λειτουργὸν (leitourgon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3011.htm">Strong's 3011: </a> From a derivative of laos and ergon; a public servant, i.e. A functionary in the Temple or Gospel, or a worshipper or benefactor. to my μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. needs. χρείας (chreias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5532.htm">Strong's 5532: </a> From the base of chraomai or chre; employment, i.e. An affair; also occasion, demand, requirement or destitution. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/philippians/2-25.htm">Philippians 2:25 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/philippians/2-25.htm">Philippians 2:25 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/philippians/2-25.htm">Philippians 2:25 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/philippians/2-25.htm">Philippians 2:25 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/philippians/2-25.htm">Philippians 2:25 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/philippians/2-25.htm">Philippians 2:25 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/philippians/2-25.htm">Philippians 2:25 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/philippians/2-25.htm">Philippians 2:25 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/philippians/2-25.htm">Philippians 2:25 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/philippians/2-25.htm">Philippians 2:25 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/philippians/2-25.htm">NT Letters: Philippians 2:25 But I counted it necessary to send (Philipp. Phil. Php.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/philippians/2-24.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Philippians 2:24"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Philippians 2:24" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/philippians/2-26.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Philippians 2:26"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Philippians 2:26" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>