What does Philippians 2:29 Mean?

Verse Meaning

Paul wanted Epaphroditus" homecoming to be a joyous occasion. He had carried out his mission successfully and had ministered to Paul with distinction. He urged the Philippians to regard him highly and to welcome him wholeheartedly. [source][source]

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Context Summary

The Apostle nobly honored the younger men who wrought with him. He speaks of Timothy as his son, and expatiates on the genuineness of his loving interest in each of his converts. He describes Epaphroditus as his brother, fellow-worker, and fellow-soldier. How tenderly he refers to his sickness and recovery, as though God had conferred on himself special favor in giving back this beloved comrade in the great fight!

It is well worth while to ponder the remark that God does not add sorrow to sorrow, Philippians 2:27. He tempers His wind to the shorn lamb. He cautions the accuser that he must not take Job's life. With the trial He makes the way of escape. He keeps His finger on the wrist while the operation is in progress, and stays it as soon as the pulse flutters. Not sorrow upon sorrow! Note also that "hazarding" of life, Philippians 2:30, r.v. It was a common experience in those great days of Christ's suffering Church, Acts 15:26. How strange it is today to watch the sacrifices that men and women will make in times of war, when a new spirit is stirring in the world and men adventure everything for liberty, righteousness, and fatherland, and then compare this extravagant expenditure of blood and treasure with what we have done for Jesus. [source]

Chapter Summary: Philippians 2

¹  Paul exhorts them to unity, and to all humbleness of mind, by the example of Christ's humility;
¹²  to a careful proceeding in the way of salvation, that they be as lights to a wicked world,
¹⁶  and comforts to him their apostle, who is now ready to be offered up to God
¹⁹  He hopes to send Timothy to them, and Epaphroditus also