What does it mean to "honor men like him" in our church? Setting the Scene “Welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor men like him.” (Philippians 2:29) Paul’s words about Epaphroditus are not a polite suggestion; they are Spirit-breathed instruction for life in the local church. Honoring faithful servants is part of our obedience to Christ and our witness to the watching world. Who Was Epaphroditus? • A layman, not an apostle or elder, sent by the Philippian church to carry their gift to Paul (Philippians 2:25). • Called “my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier,” showing balanced maturity—family heart, servant hands, warrior grit. • Nearly died for the work of Christ (Philippians 2:30), proving sacrificial love. Why Paul Says “Honor Men Like Him” • Scripture ties honor to labor done for Christ. – 1 Timothy 5:17: “Elders who lead well are worthy of double honor…” – 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13: “Acknowledge those who work diligently among you… hold them in highest regard because of their work.” • Honor guards the church from taking faithful servants for granted (Romans 13:7). • It sets a visible, tangible standard for younger believers: imitate devotion, not celebrity (Hebrews 13:7). • It refreshes those who pour themselves out (1 Corinthians 16:18). Practical Ways to Honor Such Servants Today • Public recognition – Share testimonies of their service during gatherings. – Invite them to tell the story of God’s faithfulness. • Personal encouragement – Hand-written notes, texts, sincere words after a meeting. – Specific praise: name the sacrifice you’ve seen. • Material support – Meet financial needs (Galatians 6:6). – Provide time away, resources, or skilled help when their load is heavy. • Prayer partnership – Commit to regular intercession; let them know you’re praying (2 Corinthians 1:11). • Imitation and cooperation – Step in beside them; serve, don’t spectate (Philippians 2:22). – Adopt their Christ-like attitudes: humility, courage, endurance. • Protect their reputation – Refuse gossip; speak up when slander surfaces (Proverbs 10:11). • Joyful submission to godly leadership – Hebrews 13:17 links obedience with making their work “a joy, not a burden.” Guarding Against Misplaced Honor • We honor to magnify Christ, not personalities (2 Corinthians 4:5). • Avoid favoritism; the standard is faithfulness, not charisma (James 2:1-4). • Keep servants accountable—honor never excuses sin (Galatians 2:11-14). The Blessing of an Honoring Church • Encouraged servants stay in the race longer, stronger. • Younger believers gain living examples of Christlike sacrifice. • The congregation models kingdom culture to a dishonoring world. • Above all, Jesus—the ultimate Servant honored by the Father (Philippians 2:9-11)—is openly revered when His people “honor men like him.” |
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