The end of Philippians 2 contains a section of personal remarks from Paul about his coworkers, especially Timothy and Epaphroditus.In this week’s passage, he commends the work of Timothy.

You can see this encouraging passage in Philippians 2:21-22:

As Paul writes to the Philippians, he expresses his hope and desire to send Timothy to them in the near future. And while the Philippian church needs no introduction to Timothy, Paul still expresses his love and care for this staunch coworker for the sake of the gospel.

He has already expressed to them that Timothy genuinely cares for the church and people in Philippi, and that he longs to send Timothy to them, so he can return with news for Paul’s ears.

Timothy stands out in a world that is typically self-seeking. We must not read this first statement as a bitter complaint Paul makes about those around him, who have failed in displaying the commitment level needed for faith in Christ. That is not what Paul is doing here. Nor is he stating that of all the people around him, none but Timothy fit the qualities of this particular task.

Rather, Paul is making a blanket statement, it seems, concerning the times he lives in, and claims that Timothy is different, that he stands out from his culture because of his faith in Christ.

In this, Paul seems to be describing our own culture as well. In a world, where we each look out for “number one,” Timothy considers the needs of others ahead of his own. This is exemplary behavior, and Paul points it out to the Philippians.

Timothy is known by the Philippians, but Paul feels the need here to commend him to them again. Timothy’s efforts have proven his level of commitment. Paul uses two phrases to really show his worth and value to Paul.

• First, he uses the terms “father” and “son” in reference to Timothy. Paul feels a deep family connection to Timothy, and cares for him as a son (1 Timothy 1:2).
• Paul also uses the word “served.” This is the same root word as that of “slave.” Timothy’s dedication to God is solid and Paul sees him as a co-slave in the work of the gospel.

Paul’s words here describing Timothy are something to be heeded. In our our times, people such as Timothy are few and far between. When we find such people, we should commend them as Paul did Timothy. We should encourage them as they serve (slave) for God and his kingdom.

Furthermore, we should strive to be that way as well. I long to be as Timothy was, totally sold out in my faith and willing to do whatever is needed for the sake of the gospel. In our society, that is rare indeed. And those who display such total commitment stand out like stars in the universe (Philippians 2:15).

Question: How is your level of commitment? Are you a Timothy? What can you do to become more like him? You can leave a comment by clicking here.