Philippians 2:18

“and in the same manner do ye also joy, and rejoice with me”

“And in the same manner”: “Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me” (Wey.) Paul did not need pity, instead he wanted Christians to share in his joy of serving God, despite the personal costs. He was doing much good, and the Philippians themselves were some of the fruits of his sacrifices. Why should anyone feel sorry for him? Either way, whether he lived or died, he had. bright future (Philippians 1:21-23). Erdman points out, “He held no morbid view of life. He indulged in no sickly sentiment as to death” (pp. 93-94). Here we see some of that like-mindedness that Christians are to have (Philippians 2:2). We are to equally appreciate service rendered to God. We should be able to rejoice with the person who has overcome self and is able to offer their life as. sacrifice to God (Romans 12:1). We should exclaim, “Job well done!” Hence, Paul's attitude was not that being. Christian was good despite the hardships, but that being. Christian was good, hardships and all. All of it was well worth it!

Timothy's upcoming visit

“Paul, the joyful servant of Jesus Christ, the optimistic prisoner, the humble cross-bearer, is also the thoughtful administrator. Even from his prison in Rome he manages in. masterly fashion the spiritual terrain entrusted to his care, so that we marvel at his practical wisdom, gracious consideration of the needs and feelings of others, and delightful unselfishness” (Hendriksen p. 133). “Paul is forced by circumstances to remain away from the church at Philippi, at least temporarily. But in the meantime he has excellent contingency plans” (Hawthorne pp. 108-109).