I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:19-21
When Paul emphasizes Timothy’s arrival as hope to the church of Philippi, it is not because of what a blessing it is to be in Timothy’s presence or what a great speaker he is. It is because Timothy authentically cares.
Timothy cares about the spiritual growth of the people in Philippi. He has no ulterior motive. No goal for himself. He is not focused on the spiritual growth he can obtain by living out Christ’s command to love others. He just loves them. His love for the spiritual welfare of others comes from the fact that Timothy, himself, is being made into the image of Christ. This genuine love is a marking of the Holy Spirit; the great counselor Jesus promises. And Paul identifies this through the display of humility.
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 14:26
Deep concern moves past obligation and into genuine interest. This type of humility is not something we can work hard towards. Although Paul gives high praise for the type of man Timothy is, we should avoid comparison. We should not look at Timothy as a status quo to achieve. Instead we should pray for the Spirit to move within us. It is the Spirit’s job to mold us into the image of Christ. He will make our love genuine. He will make us humble.
Rick Terletzky
Excerpt from "Philippians: Devotional Commentary
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