Philippians 2:19

Philippians 2:19.— St. Paul, having declared his readiness to lay down his life to serve the Philippians, (amongthe other Gentile churches which were in the like circumstances) seems to have apprehended how tenderly they would take his mentioning such a thing to them; and therefore, to prevent their being overmuch concerned, he here tells them, that however willing he was to die for them, yet he did not expect to do so presently; that he rather thought he should escape now, and in a little time be freed from his present bonds. And that he might testify his earnest and affectionate care for them, he acquaints them, that he had hopes shortly to see how his affair was likely to turn out; and that then he should be able to spare Timothy, whom he would send to them, and from whom he expected a pleasing account of their good estate.He further tells them, that he hoped shortly to have an opportunity of visiting them himself; but in the mean time, while he was not at liberty to come himself, nor could well spare Timothy, he thought it necessary to send back Epaphroditus to them, of whom he gives an excellent character, recommending him to their kind and courteous reception, Philippians 2:10. Instead of, that I may be of good comfort, some read, that I may be refreshed.