TRV
Philippians 2:26
Bible Versions
For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick.
since he has been longing for you all and has been distressed because you heard he was ill.
For he has been longing for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill.
since he longed after you all, and was sore troubled, because ye had heard that he was sick:
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Philippians 1:8
For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. -
Proverbs 12:25
¶ Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad. -
Ephesians 3:13
Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. -
Isaiah 61:3
To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified. -
Romans 12:15
Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. -
Psalms 69:20
Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked [for some] to take pity, but [there was] none; and for comforters, but I found none. -
Romans 9:2
That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.
Philippians 2:26 reveals the deep concern and emotional distress of Epaphroditus, a faithful servant of Christ and Paul's companion, for the church in Philippi. Despite his own severe illness, his primary worry was the anxiety he knew the Philippians felt upon hearing of his sickness. This verse beautifully illustrates the strong bonds of love and mutual care within the early Christian community.
Context
This verse is part of Paul's letter to the Philippians, written while he was imprisoned (likely in Rome). The Philippian church had sent Epaphroditus to Paul's aid, bearing a financial gift and serving as their messenger and minister to Paul's needs (Philippians 4:18). During his service, Epaphroditus became critically ill, nearly dying (Philippians 2:27). News of his grave condition reached the Philippians, causing them distress. Epaphroditus, in turn, heard that they had heard, and this knowledge of their concern for him became a source of profound "heaviness" or anxiety for him. Paul sends him back to Philippi with this letter, assuring them of Epaphroditus's recovery and faithfulness.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The KJV phrase "longed after you all" translates the Greek word epipotheō (ἐπιποθέω), which signifies an intense yearning, a deep affection, or an earnest desire to see or be with someone. It conveys a strong emotional pull, far beyond a casual wish. The phrase "full of heaviness" comes from the Greek adēmoneō (ἀδημονέω), a powerful term describing extreme distress, anguish, or agitation, often accompanied by mental confusion or anxiety. This same word is used to describe Christ's profound anguish in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:37, Mark 14:34), indicating the depth of Epaphroditus's emotional pain over the Philippians' worry.
Practical Application
This verse encourages believers to cultivate genuine empathy and mutual concern within their communities. Like Epaphroditus, we are called to be mindful of how our circumstances might affect others and to prioritize their emotional well-being. It reminds us that even strong servants of God can experience deep emotional distress, and that vulnerability is a part of the human experience. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of offering comfort and reassurance to those who are worried or suffering, reflecting the selfless love of Christ.