In what ways can we support our church leaders like Epaphroditus supported Paul? Epaphroditus: A Portrait of Support Philippians 2:25 — “But I thought it necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need.” Paul piles up five titles. Each one hints at a different facet of the help Epaphroditus gave—and the help we can offer today. • Brother — warm, family-level loyalty • Fellow worker — shared labor in ministry • Fellow soldier — steadfastness under pressure • Messenger — trusted courier of resources and news • Minister to my need — hands-on care for practical necessities Translating the Example into Daily Action Brotherly care • Show genuine friendship: invite your leaders into your life, not merely your schedule. • Speak encouragement often (1 Thessalonians 5:11). A quick text or handwritten note refreshes weary hearts. Shared labor • Volunteer where they shoulder heavy loads—teaching children, visiting the sick, maintaining facilities (Nehemiah 4:6). • Arrive early, stay late. Quiet, unseen service multiplies their effectiveness. Steadfast defense • Pray protection over them daily (Ephesians 6:18-20). • Stand with them when criticism comes; refuse gossip (Proverbs 17:9). • Support sound doctrine publicly, so they are not left to fight alone (Titus 1:9). Reliable communication • Keep them informed of needs within the body so no sheep is overlooked (Acts 11:29-30). • Deliver updates and resources to missionaries they oversee (3 John 5-8). Material ministry • Give faithfully and generously (Galatians 6:6; 1 Timothy 5:17-18). • Provide meals, childcare, or transport during busy seasons. • Offer professional skills—accounting, IT, carpentry—saving the church needless expense. Scripture Echoes That Reinforce the Call • 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 — “acknowledge those who labor… esteem them very highly in love.” • Hebrews 13:17 — “Obey your leaders and submit… allow them to do this with joy.” • Exodus 17:12 — Aaron and Hur held up Moses’ hands; the battle was won because leaders were supported. • 2 Timothy 1:16-18 — Onesiphorus “often refreshed” Paul, unashamed of chains. Living It Out Together When church members link arms as brothers, workers, soldiers, messengers, and ministers, leaders flourish and the gospel advances. Epaphroditus did not wait for a committee; he saw the need, crossed the miles, and met it. We, too, can turn conviction into tangible help—today, this week, all year long—so that those who guide us can do so “with joy and not grief, for that would be of no advantage to you” (Hebrews 13:17). |
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