What does Philippians 2:20 mean?

This highlights the godly character of Timothy mentioned in verse 19. Paul considered Timothy unique. Part of this uniqueness was found in his sincere concern for the Philippian Christians. This stands in contrast with Philippians 2:21 that notes, "For they all seek their own interests," referring perhaps to people in general. It may also be a reference to the people who preached Christ out of selfish motivations, which Paul had mentioned in Philippians 1:15–18.

Timothy was one of Paul's closest associates. In addition to his service with Paul in Rome, he collaborated with him on many of his letters, traveled with him on missionary journeys, and led the church at Ephesus during Paul's later years (1 and 2 Timothy). In 1 Corinthians 4:17 Paul called him "my beloved and faithful child in the Lord." Hebrews 13:23 also notes that Timothy will be arrested at least once for his faith, likely during Nero's persecution of Christians between AD 64 and 68.