Philippians 2:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Philippians 2:19
19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.
Chapter Context
Philippians 2 is a friendship epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, fellowship, love. Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (c. 60-62 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church in this Roman colony maintained partnership with Paul despite his imprisonment.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Philippians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Philippians 2:19
19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.
Analysis
But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state (Ἐλπίζω δὲ ἐν κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ Τιμόθεον ταχέως πέμψαι ὑμῖν, ἵνα κἀγὼ εὐψυχῶ γνοὺς τὰ περὶ ὑμῶν, Elpizō de en kyriō Iēsou Timotheon tacheōs pempsai hymin, hina kagō eupsychō gnous ta peri hymōn)—Elpizō...en kyriō Iēsou ("I hope/trust in the Lord Jesus") qualifies Paul's plan: hope grounded in Christ's will, not personal optimism. Timotheon tacheōs pempsai ("to send Timothy shortly") announces intended delegation. Tacheōs ("quickly, soon") suggests urgency.
Purpose: hina kagō eupsychō ("that I also may be encouraged"). Eupsychō ("be encouraged, be of good courage") combines eu ("good") + psychē ("soul")—literally "be good-souled." Gnous ta peri hymōn ("knowing the things concerning you") shows pastoral concern. Paul's comfort depends on knowing their spiritual state. Timothy serves as Paul's extension—assessing, encouraging, reporting. This begins a section (2:19-30) commending Timothy and Epaphroditus as Christlike examples.
Historical Context
Timothy was Paul's trusted delegate (Acts 16:1-3; 1 Cor 4:17; 16:10). Ancient communication was slow and uncertain—personal envoys were essential. Timothy's visit would strengthen Philippians and inform Paul. Philippians' love for Timothy (Acts 16) made him ideal. In 2:19-24 (Timothy) and 2:25-30 (Epaphroditus), Paul models the Christ-hymn's humility (2:5-11) in contemporary examples—living epistles of gospel values.
Reflection
- How does Paul's 'trust in the Lord Jesus' (elpizō en kyriō Iēsou) model Christian planning versus presumption?
- What does Paul's dependence on knowing the Philippians' 'state' teach about pastoral concern?
- Who serves as a trusted 'Timothy' in your life—a faithful delegate and encourager?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Philippians 1:1
- Faith: 1 Corinthians 4:17, 1 Thessalonians 3:2
- Parallel theme: Philippians 2:28