Summary

Just as in Philippians 2:27, Paul mentions that Epaphroditus nearly died. It is possible that Paul refers to the illness which he wrote about in that verse. But we cannot be sure of this, for he adds here, for the work of Christ, and, risking his life. It is also possible that Paul thinks of something else here, for which Epaphroditus has risked his life. We do not know for sure exactly what this was. In any case, the input of Epaphroditus to help Paul in the service of the gospel has almost led to his death. In this way, Epaphroditus supplemented what the Philippians lacked in the loving service to Paul (compare 1 Corinthians 16:17). This lacking cannot have been meant as a reproach. Some even see Paul’s good humor in this.

The members of the church had done their best through the gifts which Epaphroditus had taken along (Philippians 4:18). They could not do more: come to Paul themselves to support him. Epaphroditus had done that for them. With this he has made their love for Paul complete.

With this verse, Paul closes off the part about Timothy and Epaphroditus. In this Scripture portion, several things that Paul tells the church in this letter (such as unity, a selfless commitment, love for the church, obedient service) come to light in the lives of Paul and these two fellow workers. In their service, something becomes visible of the mind of Jesus (Philippians 2:5).