Philippians 2:29

Receive him therefore "Therefore": as the consequence of my sending him. The whole verse supports the suggestion that the internal friction among the Philippians had somehow made Epaphroditus unacceptable to some. See above on Philippians 2:26.

in the Lord See above on Philippians 1:8.

with all gladness The cloud in his own sky interferes not in the least with this holy soul's interest in the joy of others.

in reputation R.V., in honour. The word occurs Luke 7:2, of the centurion's "highly-valuedslave"; and 1 Peter 2:4; 1 Peter 2:6, of the "preciousstone." There was a slight risk, we gather here (and see Philippians 3:17, and note), lest such unobtrusive and devoted holders of, and workers for, the Gospel should fall out of favour at Philippi. Cp. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13.