The Philippian Partnership

During a recent study of Philippians, I began to see how the Apostle Paul viewed the church at Philippi as valued mission partners. In Philippians 1:3-5, he joyfully prays for them and mentions their participation in the gospel with him.

One facet of their partnership was financial. The Philippian church had supported Paul by collecting and sending money at various times. Part of the reason for the letter to the Philippians was to thank them for a financial gift, which was brought to Paul by a man called Epaphroditus. He brought the funds to Paul on what I see as an early type of mission trip. He was sent as a representative of a church to help a missionary (Paul) and to serve alongside him. Paul commends Epaphroditus and describes him to the Philippians as “your messenger to help me in my need.”

In speaking of Epaphroditus’ value to him, Paul calls him: “my brother, and fellow worker, and fellow soldier.” ( from Philippians 2:25)

As brothers and sisters in Christ we are family. We have fellowship with each other in Christ through the Spirit of God.

We are co-laborers in God’s field. Each of us may be assigned different tasks, but we work together for His glory. I often sign off from an email or other correspondence as “Your co-laborer in the field”. As we co-labor, we participate in the gospel together.

I love that Paul calls Epaphroditus his fellow soldier. This gospel work is spiritual warfare. If you have been on a mission trip with other believers or served on the mission field together, you know the special “fellowship” that develops. Soldiers who have fought together in battle know of the “bond” that joins them together. In gospel partnership we are bound together in Christ, striving side by side for the faith of the gospel.

I am thankful for Epaphroditus. He served the Lord and his church in Phillipi by coming alongside Paul for a season. I pray that what Paul said of him is what those I partner with would say about me.

True Brother. Co-worker. Fellow Soldier.