Philippians 2:28
“I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Paul sends Epaphroditus eagerly so that the Philippians' joy at seeing him will ease Paul's own sorrow.
What Does Philippians 2:28 Mean?
Paul explains why he sends Epaphroditus back so eagerly. When the Philippians see their friend again, they will rejoice, and that gladness will in turn make Paul himself less sorrowful.
Paul's care reaches in every direction. He gives up the comfort of Epaphroditus' company so that the Philippians can have the joy of his return, and he finds his own relief in their relief. There is a beautiful unselfishness in sending away one who had been a help to him, simply for the joy it would bring others. Their rejoicing becomes his comfort; their gladness eases his grief. This is the circulation of love within the body of Christ, where one person's joy lightens another's sorrow, and serving others' happiness becomes a source of one's own peace.