Who was Epaphroditus in the Bible?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Epaphroditus is a New Testament believer who exemplifies devotion, selflessness, and resilience amidst adversity. Referred to as a brother, worker, soldier, and messenger by Paul, his profound commitment to spreading the gospel shines through. Despite facing near-death illness, Epaphroditus remained steadfast, living a life worthy of the gospel, fostering unity, humility, and sacrificial love. His journey symbolizes a profound truth: that living out such godly virtues, though challenging, is not only possible but can be done with joy. In today's world, dominated by distractions and false gods, Epaphroditus stands as a beacon, reminding us of the transformative power of living for Christ and serving others with humility and grace.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Epaproditus is not mentioned in the Old Testament.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Epaphroditus appears twice in the Bible (Philippians 2:25; 4:18).
• Paul referred to Epaphroditus as "my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need" (Philippians 2:25). Epaphroditus was much loved by both Paul and the people in the Philippian church and was a faithful man willing to work for the spread of the gospel even through illness. This is evident in the way Paul writes about him: "I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to me need, for he has been longing for you all and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill. Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. I am the more eager to send him, therefore, that you may rejoice at seeing him again, and that I may be less anxious. So receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honor such men, for he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me" (Philippians 2:25–30).
• Epaphroditus was sent by the church at Philippi with gifts of support to bring to Paul (Philippians 4:18), who was living under house arrest in Rome. Epaphroditus later returned to the Philippian believers with a letter from Paul, which we know as the New Testament book of Philippians.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Epaphroditus was an example of what Paul had written about in the preceding paragraphs of Philippians. He led a life worthy of the gospel of Christ (Philippians 1:27); he lived in unity with Paul and the Philippian church (Philippians 2:1–2); he humbly considered others more highly than himself (Philippians 2:3–4); he had the mindset of Christ, being willing to suffer in order to bring life to others (Philippians 2:5–11); and he did all of this without grumbling or complaining (Philippians 2:14–15). While this list can often seem impossible to live out, Epaphroditus' example shows us that it can be lived out joyfully. Epaphroditus lived in a culture so engrossed in idol worship and false religion that his name gave honor to a false god, and yet his life was lived for the glory of the only true God and furtherance of the gospel. Likewise, we can live counter culturally in a world of full of entertainment, instant gratification, self-centeredness, and other idols when we live a life like Epaphroditus: worthy of the gospel, in humility, for the sake of the body of Christ, and with the mind and attitude of Christ.

UNDERSTAND

• Epaphroditus was a believer who delivered a gift to Paul from the church at Philippi.
• Epaphroditus nearly died for the work of Christ.
• Epaphroditus returned from Paul with a letter to the Philippian church, now known as the epistle to the Philippians.

REFLECT

• How does Epaphroditus' example of sacrifice and persevering through difficulty encourage you in your own faith journey?
• How does Epaphroditus’ relationship with Paul and the church at Philippi impact your view of the body of Christ?
• Consider the qualities Paul attributes to Epaphroditus—how can we cultivate similar virtues in our own lives, particularly in serving others and fostering unity within our communities?

ENGAGE

• The early church faced much persecution and relied on other believers to support each other.
• How do you think the Philippian church was impacted by Epaphroditus' near-death experience and subsequent return with Paul's letter?
• In today's context, how can we encourage and learn from believers like Epaphroditus who demonstrate unwavering commitment to serving others and spreading the gospel despite challenges and opposition?