What’s the News? Philippians 2:23. “Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.” Timothy was trustworthy, so Paul knew he would give an honest report of what was happening in Philippi. He was faithful to God, God’s people, and Paul, so he wouldn’t just tell people what they wanted to hear but leave out the rest. That doesn’t help when you’re asking for prayer. The whole story needs to be told, both good and bad, even the parts that concern all the listeners. Life is often filled with difficult situations, and the one delivering news must share all the complications so the Lord’s people can pray specifically for the right solutions to be found and acted upon.
A person is a true servant when what they do is always as unto the Lord, not for the praise or criticism of others. A witness to the facts knows firsthand what has happened because they make a point to get the news themselves by going directly to the source. You can trust what a true witness has to say, as it is reliable. They always gather the full message before reporting on the situation or its outcome. They have been involved or seek out those involved from the beginning. Rest assured, what they tell you is not hearsay but facts, and their report comes from the heart, offering comfort or consolation to those who genuinely care about the matter.
Understand me, he is not a tale-bearer who spreads the whole story of a matter that might cause division. He is simply someone who recognizes the value of caring enough about the Lord’s people and God's work to pray earnestly for the outcome to be for God’s glory. The goal of someone who goes, like Timothy to Philippi, is that all who have the right and responsibility to get involved might understand the bigger picture. Hopefully, the problems that arise and the results that come from this current situation will lead everyone listening to turn to our heavenly Father for help or even a miracle to bring the matter to a close.
Timothy had learned from his mentor the value of a soul and the uniqueness of the Lord's people. He could be relied upon to do what was right in this situation for the people of Philippi. His faith was genuine, and his love was sincere. He thought about things and people the same way Paul did, and he also possessed the mind of Christ. He was an example of those who shine as lights in the world. Each one was a very different person, and so was Epaphroditus. Yet each was a servant of God, and each displayed divine light in their own calling and way.
As a servant, Timothy displayed unselfish concern for the saints. He prioritized the interests of others. He was trained as a son is trained by his father, Paul. Now, there was no doubt about whether his judgment could be trusted. He was not unreliable. He was dependable. When issues arise and problems need solving, we rely on those with a shepherd's heart of compassion. We need individuals who can be wholeheartedly trusted to care for the people while also remaining faithful to the truth, ensuring that nothing important is left undone and nothing necessary is left unsaid.