Philippians 2:23 - Printer Friendly

ESV: I hope therefore to send him just as soon as I see how it will go with me,

NIV: I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me.

NASB: Therefore I hope to send him immediately, as soon as I see how things go with me;

CSB: Therefore, I hope to send him as soon as I see how things go with me.

NLT: I hope to send him to you just as soon as I find out what is going to happen to me here.

KJV: Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.

NKJV: Therefore I hope to send him at once, as soon as I see how it goes with me.

Timothy was still with Paul when Philippians was written, but Paul hoped to send him to Philippi soon. He seems to be waiting for more information on his current legal situation. Paul had spent two years under house arrest (Acts 28:30). This shows the letter was written approximately AD 62, giving one of the most accurate dates of any of Paul's letters. Paul probably wanted to wait to send Timothy until he had confirmation about his impending release.

Timothy would later serve as leader of the church in Ephesus (1 and 2 Timothy). During Paul's second imprisonment, sometime between AD 64 and 68, Paul wrote 2 Timothy to urge Timothy to visit him before winter (perhaps written in the fall of 65 to 67). Timothy would outlive his mentor, serving as a church leader until his own death, traditionally dated around AD 97, martyred for attempting to stop a procession honoring the goddess Diana.

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 11:43:48 AM