Philippians 2:25

“But I considered it necessary to send you Epaphroditus — my brother, coworker, and fellow soldier, as well as your messenger and minister to my need —”

Some of my strongest friendships are with my ‘coworkers’ – especially those who I am working with in Christ centered ministry to others. The Apostle Paul felt this same way about Epaphroditus. 

Paul shared that his brother and coworker almost died as they labored together…

Philippians 2:30

“Because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life… “

Epaphroditus was ‘all in’ for the work of Christ and became seriously ill as a result of over-exertion in ministering with Paul or by the hardships of his journey. He was absolutely committed to the work. 

Jesus shared with his disciples that the ‘workers’ are few… and so we pray… 

Matthew 9:37-38

“Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

Epaphroditus was a worker. He was sent out on mission by his own local church and he was an answer to prayer. 

Prayer. 

Father God, I pray that You would raise up workers like Epaphroditus both here in Jacksonville and around the world who would give their all and their very life for the ministry of the Gospel. May I too be faithful to this call. In Jesus Name, Amen.