Philippians 2:30

Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.

Because {G3754} for {G1223} the work {G2041} of Christ {G5547} he was nigh {G1448} unto {G3360} death {G2288}, not regarding {G3851} his life {G5590}, to {G2443} supply {G378} your {G5216} lack {G5303} of service {G3009} toward {G4314} me {G3165}.

For he risked his life and nearly died working for the Messiah, in order to give me the help you were not in a position to give.

because he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for your deficit of service to me.

because for the work of Christ he came nigh unto death, hazarding his life to supply that which was lacking in your service toward me.

Philippians 2:30 concludes Paul’s commendation of Epaphroditus, a faithful servant of the Philippian church, highlighting the extreme dedication he demonstrated. This verse underscores the profound self-sacrifice made by Epaphroditus for the sake of the gospel and in service to Paul.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section (Philippians 2:19-30) where Paul details his plans to send Timothy and Epaphroditus to the Philippian church. Paul explains why Epaphroditus is returning to them: he had been very ill, almost dying, and the Philippians had heard of his sickness. Epaphroditus had been sent by the Philippians to minister to Paul's needs while Paul was imprisoned (Philippians 4:18). This verse specifically explains the severity of Epaphroditus's illness and the reason for his suffering: "for the work of Christ."

Key Themes

  • Selfless Service and Sacrifice: Epaphroditus literally "risked his life" (paraboleuomai, meaning to expose oneself to danger, to gamble) for the sake of Christ's work and Paul's well-being. This exemplifies profound disregard for personal safety in pursuit of a divine mission.
  • Partnership in the Gospel: Epaphroditus served as the Philippians' representative, bringing their financial and practical support to Paul. His willingness to endure hardship and near-death experiences demonstrates the deep commitment of the Philippian church to Paul's ministry and the spread of the gospel. He was "to supply your lack of service toward me," indicating that he fulfilled the ministry that the geographically distant Philippians could not personally render to Paul in his imprisonment.
  • Devotion to Christ's Work: The phrase "for the work of Christ" emphasizes that Epaphroditus's actions were not merely personal favors but were driven by his commitment to the advancement of the gospel. His suffering was directly tied to his participation in God's mission, a theme Paul often touches upon (Colossians 1:24).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "not regarding his life" translates the Greek word paraboleusamenos, which comes from a root meaning "to throw oneself alongside" or "to hazard." It conveys the idea of putting one's life on the line, like a gambler risking everything. This powerfully illustrates Epaphroditus's extreme courage and dedication, willing to face death for the sake of his mission and Paul.

Practical Application

Philippians 2:30 challenges believers to consider their own level of commitment to the "work of Christ."

  • Sacrificial Giving: Are we willing to go above and beyond, even when it requires personal cost or inconvenience, to support the spread of the gospel and care for its laborers?
  • Valuing Ministry Partners: This verse highlights the immense value Paul placed on Epaphroditus's service. It reminds us to honor and appreciate those who faithfully serve in ministry, especially when their service involves personal sacrifice.
  • Representing the Body: Just as Epaphroditus represented the Philippian church, we are called to serve as Christ's ambassadors in our spheres (2 Corinthians 5:20), fulfilling the work that the broader body of Christ might not be able to accomplish directly.
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 16:17

    I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied.

  • Philippians 4:10

    ¶ But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.

  • Acts 20:24

    But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:15

    And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.

  • Philippians 4:18

    But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things [which were sent] from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

  • 1 Corinthians 16:10

    ¶ Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also [do].

  • Romans 16:4

    Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.

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