Model Servants - Pt. 2

Sunday Service

Model Servants - Part 2
Philippians 2:19-30

THEME: There are many war stories that could be told of daring soldiers who served above and beyond the call of duty. In today’s text, Paul, who was the Commanding General of the army of spiritual soldiers fighting to advance the gospel throughout the known world at the time, gave a glowing commendation of one of the bravest soldiers he ever had the privilege of serving alongside. His name was Epaphroditus, and he wasn’t anyone special in the sense that he wasn’t a pastor or elder, nor did he take the gospel to some unreached people group, nor did he receive divine revelation. He was just an ordinary member of the church in Philippi who was chosen to deliver a financial gift to Paul and serve his practical needs while he was under house arrest in Rome. But Paul considered this simple layman who was willing to do routine, menial work and serve quietly and inconspicuously behind the scenes as a hero of the Christian faith. And he wanted to make sure this daring soldier who literally put his life on the line for the cause of Christ received the recognition he deserved when he returned home to Philippi. After painting a brief sketch of Epaphroditus.

Together these TWO SKETCHES are worthy of emulation.

1. TIMOTHY: THE CARING SERVANT (vv. 19-24)

A. He was genuinely concerned for others (v. 20)
B. He was solely devoted to Christ’s interests (v. 21)
C. He was loyally committed to the gospel (v. 22)

2. EPAPHRODITUS: THE DARING SOLDIER (vv. 25-30)

A. His Honorable Discharge (vv. 25-28)

B. His Meritorious Salute (vv. 29-30)

Thank God for providing great examples like Timothy and Epaphroditus to pattern your life after. Ask Him to grant you grace to live with reckless devotion to Christ and honor and esteem those who do.