Summary

Here Paul instructed the Philippians in how they had to receive Epaphroditus. The words receive him are in the imperative. This indicates that Epaphroditus had not arrived in Philippi a little earlier, but that he himself probably took along this letter. At his arrival in Philippi, he could (in response to critical questions) refer to the words that Paul wrote about him. The church is to receive him in the Lord. The name of Jesus Christ had to fit with the manner in which they received Epaphroditus in their midst again. After all, they are united with him in Christ. Let they, after his serious illness, welcome him with all joy. They also must honour men like him. It becomes clear here that Epaphroditus and others like him do not belong to those people who strive after selfish ambition (Philippians 2:3).