Join us for a deep dive into the life of Epaphroditus, a lesser-known figure highlighted in Paul's letter to the Philippians. Paul presents Epaphroditus as a powerful example of the selfless humility he encourages in the Philippian church. Sent from Philippi to deliver a gift and minister to Paul while imprisoned in Rome, Epaphroditus undertook a difficult and dangerous journey. During this mission, he became severely ill, near to death, causing distress to both Paul and the Philippian believers. Paul commends Epaphroditus with high praise, calling him "my brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier," and "your messenger and minister". His willingness to risk his life for the work of Christ and minister to Paul, even when he himself became ill, underscores his devotion and sacrificial spirit. Paul urges the Philippians to receive him with great joy and honor such individuals. Discover the timeless lessons from Epaphroditus's life: that serving doesn't prevent suffering, failure is a normal part of serving, community is vital for value in God's Kingdom, and much of faithful service happens outside the spotlight. Learn why this "gambler for Christ" is truly a servant worthy of honor.

Works Cited

Anderson, Brian. "Epaphroditus- A Fully Devoted Life." The Bridge, 1 Jan. 2022.Associates for Biblical Research. "Who was Epaphroditus in the Bible and What Can We Learn from Him?" Bible Study Tools, Salem Media Group, 17 Sept. 2021.Charles, H.B., Jr. "A Servant Worthy of Honor | Philippians 2:25-30." H.B. Charles Jr., 15 Dec. 2023, hucharlesjr.org/resources/sermons/a-servant-worthy-of-honor-philippians-2-25-30/.Daffern, Josh. "4 Life Lessons from Epaphroditus." Patheos, New Wineskins, 19 Nov. 2014.Doyle-Nelson, Theresa. "The Gift of St. Epaphroditus." Franciscan Media, 22 June 2023.Doyle-Nelson, Theresa. "St. Epaphroditus — A Brother, Co-Worker, Fellow Soldier, Messenger and Minister." National Catholic Register, EWTN News, Inc., 23 Mar. 2021, www.ncregister.com/blog/saint-epaphroditus.Eyiangho, Godwin. "EPAPHRODITUS An Example of Humility." Church of Christ Grey Congregation, n.d.Gohn, Chuck. "Epaphroditus - A Man Of Honor Or Shame?" Sermon Central, 5 July 2022.Humfrey, Clint. "Our Leaders Are not Superhuman." The Gospel Coalition | Canada, The Gospel Coalition, INC., 31 July 2018."7) Identity and Epaphroditus." Living with Mystery, n.d.MacLaren, Alexander. "Paul and Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:25-30, R.V.)." Blue Letter Bible, n.d.Mazzalongo, Mike. "Are Epaphroditus and Epaphras the Same Person?" BibleTalk.tv, n.d.Storms, Sam. "The Healing of Epaphroditus and Healing Today Philippians 2:25-30." Sam Storms, Enjoying God Ministries, 19 Jan. 2018."The Return of Epaphroditus." Tabletalk, Ligonier Ministries, 16 Nov. 2011, learn.ligonier.org/devotionals/the-return-of-epaphroditus."The Severity of Epaphroditus' Illness." Tabletalk, Ligonier Ministries, 17 Nov. 2011, learn.ligonier.org/devotionals/the-severity-of-epaphroditus-illness."Epaphroditus." Topical Bible, Blue Letter Bible, n.d."Epaphroditus." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, n.d., en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Epaphroditus&oldid=1251323605."Who was Epaphroditus in the Bible?" GotQuestions.org, 4 Jan. 2022.

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Epaphroditus: Near Death for the Work of Christ