Q4. Timothy's Character

[TJHANKS]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem? How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem? How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

The problem was lack of sacrifice by their leaders. The leaders were looking for position and power and not service. Paul describes Timothy as of "proven character" and "like minded" pertaining to himself (Paul). Service, service and service! He doesn't seek his own power. God wants us to serve Him with our "all". Epaphroditus was on the verge of death because of his sacrfice to our Lord. It goes back to Philippians 2:3 "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mindlet each other esteem others better than himself."

[charlenereeves]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem? How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem? How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

To me it seems as if the struggle is about an old term is troublemakers. Timothy's description show humbleness and meekness-a teachable servant He is an example of Jesus for us. And Epaphroditus was honered by Paul for coming to the prision to be at Paul's servant as he did in many ways. People like these address a problem of selfishness in allot of people including churches.

[ruthpe]

I found it a little hard to read between the lines , as to what their problem was. But it seems like they were having problems being unified in their decisions and that everyone thought they were right. They were becoming divided and were pushing their own agendas. Their agendas were becoming more important than loving their brother and wanting the best for each other.

Timothy was genuinely interested in the Philippians and for how they were doing. He had no agenda other than seeing to it that they were well and growing in Jesus Christ. He was a role model that Paul wanted to send to them to help them get out of the rut that they were in.

Epaphreditus was honored in that he almost died , risking his own life to serve Christ and make up for what the Philippians could not give Paul. He was sold out to the cause of Christ in a very real way.

This is what I gather from reading verses 29-30. does anyone know what he actually did , that he almost died?

[Commissioned]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem?

It seems that the Philippian church need to have leadership validated. They seems to have had a struggle in this area and Paul is assuring them that the men he is sending to them are credible.

How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem?

Paul's description of Timothy's character identifies him as a leader that can be trusted and is worthy of honor.

How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus is an indication that the church were not showing due respect and honor to persons who were laboring in the ministry.

[meandean]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem? How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem? How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

to me it sounds as if they were turning religious and not genuinly loving each other.they may have become numb in serving christ and needed put away the everyday rigamaroll and refresh themselves and remind themselves in christ. time to rejoice!

[Craig]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem? How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem? How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

The chief problem in the Philippian church seems to be unity and humility.

Timothy demonstrated geniune interest in the welfare of others which shows that he placed others before himself and was not selfish. Timothy looked out for the interests of Jesus Christ in ministering to others and placing them above himself. Further, Timothy and Paul worked together as one, as a father and son. They were united in purpose and ministry. They had a single-minded purpose in the Lord.

Like Paul and Timothy, the Philippians should place others before themselves and work together for one purpose -- the interests of Jesus Christ. Honoring and recognizing those that serve and give all they have even unto adverse health, etc. for the Lord requires stepping out of individual ego. Taking the focus off the self and exalting someone else to encourage and minister to them. This is good for the soul.

[Tangerine]

The church seems to be going through some type of persecution that Paul commiserates with (as he is in chains). And as a result of the struggles, people are reverting to selfish ambition, conceit, and forgetting about the love and encouragement that can be found in Christ.

To combat this, Paul encouraged the church to be more Christ-like, who gave up on his own sense of power and rights and became a servant of all. Paul mentions both Timothy and Epaphroditus as men who are encouraging of others, and think of the welfare of others ahead of their own.

[emmaus]

It seems that the Philippian church lacked focus. They needed do as Timothy and love the Lord and do his work rather than think of themselves. Paul wanted them to give us themselves as Epaphroditus had and follow his example.

[McCollum]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem? How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem? How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

The Philippians church chief problem I understand, was that they were social segregated , they form groups along these lines, they put walls around them to keep other out.

Paul says that Timothy was like-minded and that he loved them and that Timothy had shown his faithful to the Philippians for (10) ten years of minister with Paul.

Paul complimentary terms were a "brother", a fellow "worker" , "a fellow solder", a "messenger" to the Philippians and a "minister" to Paul.

[JanMary]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem?

Paul exhorted this beloved church to humility and unity...they were operating in "the flesh", rather than "allowing Christ to work in them both to will and to work for His good pleasure and delight." v. 13. Perhaps judgemental and lacking in love and compassion. In v.14 Paul urges them to do all things without grumbling, faultfinding and complaining against God and questioning and doubting among themselves.

How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem?

Paul calls Timothy a kindred spirit, genuinely interested in their welfare and devoted to their interests. (Rather than selfish and advancing self interests). He said Timothy was tested, and toiled with paul zealously to advance the Gospel. (Rather than apathetic and whining, and complaining.) Timothy was a servant and a trusted leader they could look to for mentoring.

How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

He was careful to point out the virtuous service of Epaphroditus, rather than allow them to think that his coming home was due to failure or faithlessness. Paul seems to sense that otherwise, Epaphroditus might be judged and criticized. (Another symptom of pridefulness).

[hanks]

Q4.

From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem?

How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem?

How does Paul's call to honour men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

Like most churches today, there were differences of opinion amongst members of its congregation, and this often led to arguments and strife. Most of the people were self-centred, except for Timothy who was unique in his unselfish care for the Philippians. There was no one else, besides Timothy, whom Paul could send to them with the same confidence. The believers had become so engrossed with the cares of this life that they had no time for the things which are of Christ Jesus. Otherwise the church seemed to be functioning well. When it comes to Epaphroditus, Paul speaks highly of him. He was a man who could work with others, and this is certainly of importance in Christian life and service. We also notice he was willing to do common or menial work. Many today are only interested in work that is public and pleasant.

[Sasquatch]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem?

In Philippians 2:14-16, Paul encourages the Philippians to "Do everything without complaining or arguing". It appears there is a lack of unity similar to the Israelites grumbling in the desert. Pastor Ralph writes a complaining, grumbling spirit pollutes the church. So, the church, the congregation must repent and change to allow God to do His best work.

Secondly, there appears to be problems with leadership in the church. Paul says he will be sending Timothy and Epaproditus back to the church. Both are examples of service and humility.

How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem?

Paul has entrusted Timothy with many delicate church missions. He describes Timothy as "I have no one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare". Timothy had been proven and tested by fire. Since he is not a novice to the ministry and takes such true interest in the welfare of the church, he is qualified to help the Philippian church. Timothy can help with the bickering and arguing and with church leadership.

How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

Paul calls the church to honor Epaphroditus as a brother, soldier, fellow worker, messenger, and minister. Epaphroditus has been a slave to the gospel to such an extent that he almost died. Paul points this out to the Philippian church so there will be no question regarding the sacrifices made by Epaphroditus.

Both Timothy and Epaphroditus are examples of servants or slaves of Jesus Christ. Both willingly give all they have and both know who is their master.

[DrD]

Remain focus and retain the courage necessary to stay the course. . .

Paul described Timothy as one who has remained focused - has been diligent in his service to the Lord - and as a result of this (operating in these charater traits) has progressed and matured in the Lord. . .So Paul is saying to the Philippian saints, it you would do likewise (remian focused in your walk with the Lord and diligent in your service to Him) you will get the same results. . . Galatians 6:9 (NRSV)

9 So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up.

I think that Paul is saying pretty much the same thing when he speaks about Epaphroditus. . . He is also saying that in spite of the outside circumstances and temptations we should strive to be everything God has called us to be - equipped, qualified, and commissioned us to perform - that we must remain focused and diligent in the discharge of our spiritual duties. . . Should we do this - things will always work out. . .

[Marloes]

Many people want to be the leader.

Paul says, Timothy is the leader.

[Trusting God]

The Philippians church

[Delivered]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippians church's chief problem?

It is hard for me to give an answer to what the "chief problem" was in the Philippians church, I know they are not perfect, however, what stands out in what I have been reading is, the Philippians church, the first church established in Europe, gave great joy to Paul, they set an example for others to follow - It is sad to say, but they were the only ones standing by Paul financially, they were committed to giving support so that the gospel would go forth, an example of a true "servants" heart.

I read in (chapter 1:25) being full of joy and faith, Paul had confidence that they would abide and continue in Paul's teachings - Paul's prayer was that the love in the Philippians church would abound even more in knowledge and in judgment, with results being, the Philippians church would approve things that are excellent as (v2) they have always obeyed, (had an ear to hear) - a servants heart is seen in their "obedience" - even now, when Paul was not there with them, they are obedient, illustrating that the salvation they received, is working out in them, Paul who called them his beloved, sees it is God that is working in them, to will and to do his good pleasure.

How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem?

There is a problem that could find its way in any church, a serious problem that must be addressed, the problem of "false teaching" - "false motives", there are those who were not seeking the things which are of Jesus Christ.

Timothy's character was one that speaks to the problem of "false teaching", Timothy was tested as faithful - Timothy had great love for the saints - Timothy was a man whom Paul had great confidence in, knowing that when he sends him, Timothy would bring encouragement to the Philippians church, he would encourage them to continue to "work out their own salvation" - encouraging them to continue to seek the things which are of Jesus Christ, allowing the cross to work in them; Paul knew Timothy was not seeking his own will, Timothy was seeking the things which are of Jesus Christ, Timothy's will was to do "His good pleasure", to bring encouragement to the Philippians church, as they faced the spirit of false teachings that is out to destroy their joy and faith.

[Delivered]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippians church's chief problem?

It is hard for me to give an answer to what the "chief problem" was in the Philippians church, I know they are not perfect, however, what stands out in what I have been reading is, the Philippians church, the first church established in Europe, gave great joy to Paul, they set an example for others to follow - It is sad to say, but they were the only ones standing by Paul financially, they were committed to giving support so that the gospel would go forth, an example of a true "servants" heart.

I read in (chapter 1:25) being full of joy and faith, Paul had confidence that they would abide and continue in Paul's teachings - Paul's prayer was that the love in the Philippians church would abound even more in knowledge and in judgment, with results being, the Philippians church would approve things that are excellent as (v2) they have always obeyed, (had an ear to hear) - a servants heart is seen in their "obedience" - even now, when Paul was not there with them, they are obedient, illustrating that the salvation they received, is working out in them, Paul who called them his beloved, sees it is God that is working in them, to will and to do his good pleasure.

How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem?

There is a problem that could find its way in any church, a serious problem that must be addressed, the problem of "false teaching" - "false motives", there are those who were not seeking the things which are of Jesus Christ.

Timothy's character was one that speaks to the problem of "false teaching", Timothy was tested as faithful - Timothy had great love for the saints - Timothy was a man whom Paul had great confidence in, knowing that when he sends him, Timothy would bring encouragement to the Philippians church, he would encourage them to continue to "work out their own salvation" - encouraging them to continue to seek the things which are of Jesus Christ, allowing the cross to work in them; Paul knew Timothy was not seeking his own will, Timothy was seeking the things which are of Jesus Christ, Timothy's will was to do "His good pleasure", to bring encouragement to the Philippians church, as they faced the spirit of false teachings that is out to destroy their joy and faith.

[jacquie7]

Paul talked to them about humility and unity and told them to be unified and stand firm in one spirit, and he commended them for helping advance the gospel. His description of Timothy’s character speaks of him having proved himself as a true and faithful servant. His call to honor men says that those who selflessly serve God should be honored and respected for their service.

[Sank T Monius]

Philippians 2:19-30
Q). From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem?
A). The Philippians chief problem seemed to be leaders with self-seeking motives

#
Q). How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem?
A). Paul describes Timothy as being focused on the mission and having a selfless concern for the church.

#

Q). How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?
A). Paul describes Epaphroditus as being focused on the mission

[WinstonY]

5Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem? How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem? How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

Opposition and disunity seem to be a problem with the Philippian church. In Acts 16 Paul and Silas are heckled by a slave girl- her owners made a tidy profit from her future telling. When Paul drove out the evil spirits the owners became angry, they lost their profit they had Paul and Silas arrested under the charge that they proclaimed 'Jesus is Lord' rather than Caesar. It seemed that the Judaizers were forever coming to Paul's founded churches to try to entice the gentile Christians to become circumcised and follow the Jewish laws in general. This seems to indicate a split between Paul and those who were Judaizers.

Within the church itself there seems to be a problem with humility for Paul speaks to the church of humility. He tells the people " In humility count others more significant than yourself.(2.3") He also tells them to stop grumbling and

complaining about their work in Christ but to "...shine like stars in a bright sky."(15)

Paul praises Timothy and Epaphroditus for their humility and selfless work to help out the cause of Jesus and in their aid to Paul as he is in prison. even though, at this moment there are no great mountains to climb with Paul they still give him selfless aid. This descripton of the two workers in Christ would be for Paul an example of putting Jesus way before self.

[Aleezah]

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem? How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem? How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

1. Lack of love and unification.  There was complaining, murmuring, and disputing.  It appears as though they were at risk of believing false teachers, so Paul found himself having to reiterate the Gospel of Jesus Christ and His love for them.  Paul was writing from prison after having gone there twice. They were a selfish people.  2.  Timothy was selfless, he gave his all.  Timothy was ordained the first bishop of the church of the Ephesians.  He was one in Christ.  3.  When Epaphroditus was close to death he thought of the Philippians he thought of them.  4.  Paul had to call on outsiders to help this group, there were none among brothers that he could call on. 

[Old Jerry]

I think that the Philippians church chief problem is that they didn’t have the heart of Jesus Christ in the church. They must have been bickering, back biting, and had little clicks set up. Paul’s description of Timothy’s character speaks of this problem by telling then all the good qualities of Timothy’s character.

[DebLam3teach]

I think the Philippian church struggled with pride and selfishness.  Paul points to Timothy's unselfish service that was genuinely concerned about the church's welfare.  Paul also pointed to Epaphroditus that served Paul and the church faithfully by doing behind the scenes and vital work. Status and recognition were not their motivations for serving.  The love of Christ and dedication to Christ's church were their primary motivations.  What examples for us even hundreds of years later!

[charisbarak]

They had a problem honoring each other and those who were sacrificing themselves for others.

They were only looking at Timothy's age--not the fruit of his life. They were ready to give him trouble about being to young to be in control--But Jesus was really in control of His life and he continued to need to depend wholly on Him. The church needed to recognize he too, was a servant of the Lord.

Get your eyes off yourselves and give honor to those serving for Him.

[Commissioned]

 

 

Q4. From what you've read in Philippians so far, what seems to be the Philippian church's chief problem? How does Paul's description of Timothy's character speak to this problem? How does Paul's call to honor men like Epaphroditus speak to this problem?

From what I’ve read in Philippians so far, it seems the Philippian church's chief problem was of pride in position.  The Apostle Paul’s description of Timothy’s character was instructive of how to serve while holding an honored position in the church.  Calling them to also honor men like Epaphroditus solidifies what he had been saying to them all along, ‘in the service of the kingdom all are “slaves” of Christ and should be given due respect.