The Exemplary Life: Sent (Philippians 2:19-30)

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The exemplary life is marked by a willingness to be sent. (23-25; 28-29)

23 I hope therefore to send him just as soon as I see how it will go with me, 24 and I trust in the Lord that shortly I myself will come also. 

25 I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need, 

• Being sent must include flexibility.

• • • Timothy was ready to go to Philippi as soon as Paul’s legal troubles were sorted out.
    • Epaphroditus was sent by his church to minister to Paul and now Paul is sending him back to his church to minister to them.
    • “Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.” (Jn. 13:16) As servants of Christ we are free to be sent by God according to His plans.

• Being sent aligns with the Lord’s timing.

• • Paul’s going to Philippi was dependent upon the Lord.
  • “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Pt. 5:6-7)

28 I am the more eager to send him, therefore, that you may rejoice at seeing him again, and that I may be less anxious. 29 So receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honor such men,

• Being sent is supposed to be joyous for all.

• • Epaphroditus was eager to see his congregation again and they would be happy to have him back.
  • Instead of jealousy or anger at God’s call on an individual or group of people, the people of God should find joy whenever one is following God’s call.