On our trips to Ethiopia, Becky and I would often take friends with us to share in the work of the ministry there. What a fantastic group they were! Whenever I think of them, I'm reminded of the 3 terms Paul uses to describe Epaphroditus in Phil. 2:19. They are:
- adelphos.
- sunergos.
- sustratiōtēs.
All 3 terms are governed by the pronoun mou, "my." This term speaks of Paul's close and intimate relationship with Epaphroditus, who was a partner with Paul in the ministry.
- "Brother" emphasizes not only that Epaphroditus was a Christian but that he enjoyed a strong brotherly tie with the apostle.
- "Fellow worker" suggests that Epaphroditus was engaged in the same work as Paul, which included evangelism and teaching.
- Finally, "fellow soldier" moves from the world of work to the world of the military. The term implies that Epaphroditus participated with Paul not only in service but in suffering.
In short, Epaphroditus and Paul:
- Shared the life.
- Shared the work.
- Shared the danger.
Do you have any friends like that? If you do, you are thrice blessed.
