The “Mindset of Christ” in Timothy and Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:19-30)

"I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare.For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ." Philippians 2:19-21 (NIV)

"But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs." Philippians 2:25 (NIV)

Context

Timothy, originally from Lystra, became Paul’s co-worker at the beginning of his 2nd missionary journey. Timothy’s mother was Jewish but everyone knew his father was a Greek. Because of this, so as not to offend the Jews in the area, Paul had Timothy circumcised (Acts 16:1-3).

Epaphroditus, in contrast, was likely a Gentile. Because he was not a Jew, Paul would never have been in favor of his physical circumcision. This attitude can be seen in Paul’s adamance that Titus—a Greek—was not forced to be circumcised by the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem (see Galatians 2:1-3).

Observation

Paul puts forth for the Philippians both Timothy and Epaphroditus as men who exemplify the “mindset of Jesus.”

In what ways has Timothy demonstrated this mindset for them? In what ways has Epaphroditus?

Also, as you read today’s passage, observe how Paul characterizes his relationship with each of these men.

Interpretation

Paul was totally against the circumcision of Gentile believers, since it suggested that a person needed to become culturally Jewish in order to be saved (see Acts 15:1-31; Galatians 5:2-12; 1 Corinthians 7:18).

However, Paul and his Jewish companions were willing to observe Jewish customs if not doing so would put an obstacle in the way of a person’s reception of the gospel (see 1 Corinthians 9:19-23).

How does this historical context further illustrate Timothy as someone who shows “genuine concern” for the welfare of others and a person who does not merely “look out for their own interests” but instead looks to “those of Jesus Christ”?

Further, consider Paul’s extremely positive evaluation of Epaphroditus, a Gentile messenger from Philippi, alongside his statements about Timothy. What would this communicate to the Philippian readers?

Application

Can you think of people you know personally, who do not merely “look out for their own interests” but instead look to “those of Jesus Christ”? How do you see God using this in their lives and in the lives of others?

Do you think others would describe your life this way? If not, consider one area where you could take a step towards this mindset:

• in your use of finances
• in your interactions with strangers throughout your day
• in your closest relationships
• in service to your local church