Welcome him with Christian love and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him deserve. {Phil 2:29 NLT}
Those who sincerely love Christ because of His sacrifice for humanity, and are hearty in the interest of His kingdom, will see it as an honour to hazard their life to serve Christ and equally promote the good of His church. Our scriptural focus for today states – Welcome him with Christian love and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him deserve. In recognition of Epaphroditus sacrificial service and undeniable love for both Apostle Paul and his brethren in Philippi, Apostle Paul admonishes the Philippian church to welcome him back home with true love and joy. Let’s learn to celebrate men and women in our churches who have truly given up all for the advancement of the gospel of Christ.
Apostle Paul gave this admonition so that the brethren in Philippi would not think wrongly of Epaphroditus for coming back home. They were not to think he failed when Apostle Paul needed him the most due to the illness that almost took his life.
‘Give him the honour that people like him deserve” – Personally, Apostle Paul had high regard for Epaphroditus, exemplifying that leaders should always appreciate those who have truly excelled in their selfless commitment and dedication to the course of Christ. Secondly, leaders should equally learn to recommend those who have sacrificial laboured with them for honour among the brethren.
Giving Epaphroditus a heroic welcome in Philippi and openly celebrating this sacrificial service and love, was the perfect way to encourage other believers to imbibe these godly values that are the pillars of the New Testament church. Christ established the church on these two principles – Sacrificial service and Divine love, He expects every believer to follow His example like Epaphroditus did.
Lets celebrate righteous people only in the church.
Have a Grace filled day – Good News awaits you.
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Last modified: January 29, 2016
