Philippians 2:19-30 - Homilies By V. Hutton

Two characters, representing two aspects of Christian work.

I. TIMOTHY , A MAN OF SYMPATHY . The secret of true sympathy is to be seeking for the things of Jesus Christ. He who seeks for these feels, as his Master feels, for all human sorrows. Such a one is thoroughly "like-minded," and is delivered from the selfishness which cares for nothing but self. None can work for Christ except they are possessed of this sympathy.

II. EPAPHRODITUS , A MAN OF ACTIVE MINISTRY , He is the chosen messenger of the Church at Philippi to minister, in its name, to St. Paul's wants. The sickness from which he was recovering was probably caused by his exertions in this work ( Philippians 2:30 ).

III. ST . PAUL COMBINES IN HIMSELF BOTH THESE ASPECTS OF CHRISTIAN WORK , He is a man of intense sympathy. Notice his readiness to deny himself the society of these two men in order that the Philippians may be benefited. His reward will be sufficient if he hears a good report of them. At the same time, his whole life is a life of active ministry.

IV. THE SECRET OF BOTH SYMPATHY AND ACTIVITY , His life is lived "in the Lord" (verses 19, 24, 29).—V.W.H.