On Following Others

A Meditation

It’s been said that “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery” (Oscar Wilde). I’m uncertain about the role of ‘sincere’ flattery, but it’s rather clear, to me at least, that imitating others is a sign of their influence and impact on my life. Imitation shows that what others do plays a significant role on my behavior and character, which serves to help shape my identity.

In Philippians 2:19-30 we find two partners working alongside the apostle Paul whom he holds in high regard, and on whom he shines a bright spotlight for their sacrifice and service. Paul implores the believers in Philippi to emulate the devotion of Timothy and Epaphroditus. Here’s how.

First, it’s noteworthy that Timothy was young (1 Tim. 4:12), physically weak from frequent illnesses (1 Tim. 5:23), and generally aloof and reserved with others (1 Cor. 16:10; 2 Tim. 1:6-8). And yet he was sincerely more concerned for others than himself (Philippians 2:20). Although Paul had others with him during his imprisonment (Philippians 4:21-22), it is Timothy who was truly outstanding.

Though Timothy’s service to Paul likely included a mentoring relationship as student is to teacher (“no one else like him,” literally “of like soul,” v. 20), Paul did not necessarily see himself over Timothy in any organizational sense. Though Timothy served Paul as a son does a father, both were on equal footing in relationship to the Lord’s service (Philippians 1:1). It was not Paul whom Timothy served ultimately, but the “work of the gospel” (Philippians 2:22).

Epaphroditus, too, was remarkable. He has been proven in hardships and most likely delivered the material support to Paul in Rome (Philippians 2:25-30). Epaphroditus was a “brother,” “fellow worker,” and “fellow soldier” showing himself a devoted companion and comrade to Paul. Rather than his illness being a source of any sorrow, it was knowing that others in Philippi would be distressed from hearing of his condition that gave him pains. Such selfless concern for and devotion to others is noteworthy indeed! In fact, his illness was directly related to “the work of Christ” (Philippians 2:30). Although Paul does not indicate the precise circumstances surrounding his illness nor his healing, he does state that Epaphroditus’s suffering hardship is worthy of “honor” (Philippians 2:29).

And so, Timothy and Epaphroditus both display the character that Paul longs to see in the Philippians and he commends their example to them. They are tirelessly devoted to others for the sake of unity and the progress of the Gospel.

Where virtue is concerned, being flattered by others’ imitation is quite the accolade!