Paul had great affection for the brethren in Philippi. He answered the Macedonian call, and laid the foundation of Christ (cf. Acts 16:6-40). He witnessed the gospel working on the heart of Lydia and her household, and experienced a distraught man in the jailer transition to a state of rejoicing in the Lord with his family. He wished for these and the rest of the brethren to continue to be of one mind in Christ, and to consistently and confidently grow in the work of God (1:27-2:18). His desire was to encourage them, and to be encouraged by them (v. 19).

Since Paul was in prison (cf. 1:13), he hoped to send Timothy to the church with news of his current state, and encouragement. This he would do, he said, “as soon as I see how it goes with me” (v. 23). His reasoning for sending Timothy shows his great confidence in the young evangelist:

• (v. 20) – Like Paul, Timothy cared greatly for the brethren in Philippi. He possessed such brotherly love which showed true concern for their well-being in Christ.
• (v. 21) – All others available to be sent to Philippi were a disappointment to Paul. They served with selfish motives (cf. 1:15-18), not with sincerity in the Lord. Timothy stood out from them as one who cared for the things of Christ Jesus.
• (v. 22) – Timothy’s character was proven. His love for the Lord was shown in his labor for the sake of the gospel. He served with Paul in a humble and helpful way, and sought to emulate Paul’s character.

We would do well to imitate Timothy. His character is admirable, and acceptable in Christ.