Epaphroditus: Helpful Messenger

Timothy was clearly presented in the previous verses as Paul's trusted disciple whom he wanted to send to the Philippians to learn of their condition. Now Paul is explaining why he was planning to send Epaphroditus back to the Philippian's, even though he was their special messenger to minister to Paul. Epaphroditus was continuously longing for his home church and was full of heaviness because of their concern for him. He had been on death's door, but God showed mercy by healing him. Paul wanted them to welcome him back, value him for his great service to Paul and accept the truth the his service back to them would give Paul great relief from his concern for them.