Philippians 2:19-25 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. For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s. But you know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he has served with me in the gospel. Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me. But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly. Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. 

‘Timotheus’ – this is Timothy who was converted by Paul on his first trip (Acts 14:6-7 with 1Tim. 1:2). Part Jew and Greek, uncircumcised, but a good Christian (Acts 16:1-3). A miracle worker like Paul (1Cor. 16:10). Paul’s companion from here on (2:19; Acts 16:1-3; 17:14-15; 18:5; 19:22; 20:4; Rom. 16:21; 1Cor. 4:17). On a mission (Heb. 13:23). It is believed by some that he was Paul’s scribe in writing Hebrews and Galatians. He had the gifts of the Spirit (1Tim. 4:14; 2Tim. 1:6). He was a great student of Scripture (2Tim. 1:5; 2:15; 3:15).

‘Know the proof of him’ – This known proof of Timothy is stated in Acts 16:1-3; 17:14.

‘With the father’ – Timothy worked with Paul, not for him (1Cor. 16:10).

‘How it will go with me’ – He was confident of being liberated (2:24; 1:19, 25-26).

‘My brother, and companion in labour, fellow-soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.’ Seven facts regarding Epaphroditus: A brother in Christ (2:25); a companion in labour [Greek: sunergos] fellow-labourer in (4:3); fellow-soldier [Greek: sustratiotes]; your messenger [Greek: apostolos] apostle; Minister [Greek: leitourgos] public servant; had a physical breakdown because of overwork (2:26-30); was healed (2:27-29).