Philippians 2:20 - Printer Friendly

ESV: For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.

NIV: I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare.

NASB: For I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare.

CSB: For I have no one else like-minded who will genuinely care about your interests;

NLT: I have no one else like Timothy, who genuinely cares about your welfare.

KJV: For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.

NKJV: For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state.

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.

Philippians 2:19–30 is Paul's instructions to the Philippian church regarding two particular men: Timothy and Epaphroditus. Timothy was a trusted friend of Paul's, who would likely be visiting the church at Philippi soon. Epaphroditus apparently had friends and contacts in this church, and had brought support from Philippi to Paul. After recovering from a near-fatal disease, Epaphroditus is the one delivering this letter from Paul and Timothy.

Paul describes Jesus Christ as one willing to be humble, in obedience to God the Father. For this, God will exalt Jesus' name above all others. Someday, one way or another, all people will admit that Jesus Christ is Lord, and submit to Him. Paul wants the Philippian believers to live with contentment and unity, without complaining. Instructions are given regarding two visitors. The first is actually the one delivering this letter, Epaphroditus. The other is Timothy, Paul's trusted friend, who hopefully will be visiting soon.

Philippians 1 focused on the importance of perspective. A Christian's life, lived for Christ, may be hard or easy, but all things can give God glory. Chapter 2 frames this concept through the humility shown by Jesus Christ. His willingness to obey God the Father, even being crucified, is the ultimate example of humble service. In return, His name will be honored more than any other. Paul's instructions regarding Timothy and Epaphroditus also form a bridge to chapter 3, where Paul will contrast these good men with the dangers of false teachers.

Philippians is Paul's discussion of living the Christian life. In this letter to the church of Philippi, Paul highlights themes such as joy and glory. He also puts great emphasis on how a Christian's thinking—their attitude—affects the way they live out their faith. Paul is very thankful for the support of the Philippian church, but is also concerned about the influence of various false teachers. This letter is less theological than most of his other writings, and more practical.

Accessed 11/21/2024 1:04:09 PM