What does Philippians 2:30 mean?
Epaphroditus was fully committed to Christ. Many claim to serve Christ, yet few can claim they have nearly died in order to serve the Lord. Epaphroditus was to be honored for his tremendous level of commitment.Epaphroditus was also to be honored because he risked his life to serve in ways others could not. The entire church could not leave one country in order to visit Paul in another. However, a single person could; Epaphroditus was that individual. He was to be honored for rising to the challenge to lead and to serve in this unique way. Martyrs have long been honored for their sacrifice and rightfully so. However, this verse adds that those who have risked their lives to serve Christ should also be recognized for their efforts. Not all members of a congregation can participate in all forms of service, and those who take on the more difficult assignments should be given respect by those who stay behind.