Articles
Person Of The Week: Epaphroditus
Epaphroditus is one of many Christians who receives scant notice in the New Testament, but the contributions of these disciples and thousands of others who are unnamed were fundamental to the success of the gospel in the first century.
Epaphroditus was sent to Rome by the church in Philippi on a mission to find where Paul was imprisoned and deliver money for his personal need (Philip. 2:25, 30; 4:18). At that time, prisoners were provided for by friends and family. While engaged in this task, Epaphroditus fell deathly ill (Philip. 2:27). God spared his life, but word of his condition filtered back to Philippi and his brethren there became worried (2:26).
Though Paul undoubtedly received much comfort and encouragement from this godly servant, he directed that Epaphroditus return to Philippi and ease the church’s anxiety on his behalf. Such was the selflessness of Paul and Epaphroditus. Paul says, “Hold such men in esteem; because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life.” (Philip. 2:29-30).
Not all Christians are asked to do the same things, and not everyone is willing to undertake the work that others are. But each has his role to play, and I doubt Epaphroditus thought Christians 2,000 years later would benefit from his example. Does our sacrifice encourage anyone?
