Philippians 2:19

But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.

But {G1161} I trust {G1679} in {G1722} the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} to send {G3992} Timotheus {G5095} shortly {G5030} unto you {G5213}, that {G2443} I also {G2504} may be of good comfort {G2174}, when I know {G1097} your {G5216} state {G4012}.

But I hope in the Lord Yeshua to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I too may be cheered by knowing how you are doing.

Now I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I learn how you are doing.

But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.

Commentary on Philippians 2:19 (KJV)

In Philippians 2:19, the Apostle Paul expresses his earnest desire to send Timothy to the church in Philippi, demonstrating his deep pastoral care and reliance on God's providence. This verse is part of a larger section where Paul outlines his personal plans and commends faithful co-workers, setting an example of selfless service and genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of others.

Context

Having just exhorted the Philippians to live out their salvation with humility and obedience, reflecting the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5-8), Paul now turns to his immediate plans. He is likely imprisoned in Rome, yet his thoughts are constantly on the churches he founded and discipled. He has already mentioned sending Epaphroditus back to them (Philippians 2:25), and here he reveals his intention to send Timothy, his beloved and trusted spiritual son. This shows Paul's commitment to maintaining a vital connection with the Philippian believers, even amidst his own trials.

Key Themes

  • Pastoral Care and Concern: Paul's longing to hear about the Philippians' "state" underscores his genuine love and concern for their spiritual health and circumstances. He isn't merely interested in reports but seeks personal reassurance.
  • Partnership in the Gospel: Timothy is presented as a vital co-worker in the spread of the Gospel. Paul trusts him implicitly to represent his interests and care for the church. This highlights the importance of faithful messengers in ministry.
  • Mutual Comfort and Encouragement: Paul anticipates receiving "good comfort" from Timothy's report. This demonstrates the reciprocal nature of Christian fellowship, where the well-being of one member brings joy and encouragement to another. This desire for 'good comfort' highlights the mutual encouragement found in Christian fellowship.
  • Reliance on God: Paul states, "I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus." This phrase reveals that despite his human plans and desires, Paul's ultimate reliance is on the Lord for the successful execution of his intentions. He recognizes that God orchestrates events and provides the means for ministry.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Trust" (Greek: ἐλπίζω - elpizō): This word signifies more than mere hope; it conveys a confident expectation or firm reliance. Paul isn't just wishing; he has a strong conviction rooted in his faith in Christ that Timothy will be sent.
  • "Good comfort" (Greek: εὐψυχῶ - eupsychō): This term literally means "to be of good cheer" or "to be of good courage." Paul desires to be relieved of anxiety and to experience inner peace and joy upon hearing positive news about the Philippians.
  • "State" (Greek: τὰ περὶ ὑμῶν - ta peri hymōn): This phrase means "the things concerning you" or "your affairs." It refers comprehensively to their spiritual condition, their practical circumstances, and their progress in the faith.

Practical Application

Philippians 2:19 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  1. Genuine Care for Others: Like Paul, we are called to have a sincere interest in the spiritual and physical well-being of our fellow believers. This involves active concern, prayer, and practical support.
  2. Value of Faithful Messengers: The verse underscores the importance of trustworthy individuals in ministry and communication within the body of Christ. We should appreciate and support those who serve as faithful representatives.
  3. Finding Comfort in Fellowship: There is profound comfort and joy to be found in the flourishing of other Christians. Our spiritual health is interconnected, and we should celebrate and draw strength from each other's walk with God.
  4. Trusting God in Our Plans: Paul's example reminds us to commit our plans and desires to the Lord, recognizing that He is sovereign over all circumstances. Even when we make our best efforts, our ultimate trust should be "in the Lord Jesus" for their fulfillment. Paul's deep affection for his spiritual son, Timothy, whose character is further extolled in subsequent verses, serves as a model for mentoring and partnership in ministry.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:17

    ¶ For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church.

  • 1 Thessalonians 3:6

    ¶ But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also [to see] you:

  • 1 Thessalonians 3:8

    For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.

  • 1 Thessalonians 3:2

    And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:

  • Philippians 1:1

    ¶ Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:

  • Philemon 1:5

    Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;

  • Philemon 1:7

    For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

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