Twin City church of Christ Blog
“Nov 11, 2024 - Honor Such Men”
Categories: 2024 Reading DevotionalsHonor Such Men
Reading: Philippians 2:19-30
This section centers around two of Paul’s co-workers whom the Philippians know well. First is Timothy, who is not accompanying the letter: “I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered by news of you. For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ”(Phil 2:19-21). This is high praise. Paul sees a unique gift in Timothy: he is “genuinely concerned for your welfare” as he does his preaching work. Preaching is not a job for him, nor is it about giving others a piece of his mind. Timothy sees it as an opportunity to serve and bless. The Philippians also know this (“but you know Timothy’s proven worth,” Phil 2:22) and so Paul hopes not only to send Timothy to them soon, but also to join him there once released from prison (Phil 2:23-24).
The Philippian church sent Epaphroditus to Paul with their gift to him (Phil 4:18) and now Paul is sending him back, presumably with this letter. “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, for he has been longing for you all and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill”(Phil 2:25-26). In the course of his mission, Epaphroditus has become seriously sick and nearly died. Paul connects his sickness with his service: “he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me”(Phil 2:30). Somehow this sickness (or his inability to recover) has been worsened by his efforts to deliver the gift and help Paul.
Having discussed these two noble men, Paul gives an instruction to the church: “honor such men”(Phil 2:29). Christians honor men who are examples of genuine faith, humble though they may be. We often fail to recognize admirable traits in people we know well. Paul speaks of these men in glowing terms, highlighting Christian virtues and real-life sacrifices. They do not require ceremonies or recognition, yet Christian examples deserve honor. Will we honor them?
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One Thing to Think About: Who do I know who is living a life for Jesus worthy of honor?
One Thing to Pray For: Appreciation for the positive spiritual influences around me
