Philippians 2:19-20
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Paul's hope isn't just for Timothy to go, but that he himself will be comforted by the news. This reveals Paul's deep spiritual investment in the Philippians' well-being, finding his own comfort not just in his circumstances, but in the flourishing of others.
I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered by news of you. For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul, under house arrest in Rome, longs to hear from the Philippian church and is sending their beloved associate Timothy to them soon. This visit from Timothy is intended to bring comfort both to the Philippians and to Paul, who anxiously awaits news of their spiritual well-being and steadfastness amidst their struggles. Paul expresses his trust in the Lord Jesus to orchestrate these plans, including his own potential release and visit.
Paul's plans to send Timothy and possibly visit the Philippians himself hinge on one crucial factor. What is it?
Paul begins this section by expressing his hope to send Timothy to them soon. Notice the specific phrase: 'But I trust in the Lord Jesus...' This isn't just a casual wish; it's a deep-seated reliance. Paul isn't trusting in his own ability to orchestrate events, nor is he relying on the Roman authorities for his release. His ultimate confidence is placed in Jesus Christ. This means acknowledging Jesus' sovereignty over all circumstances, even those as complex as Paul's imprisonment and potential future ministry. It's a reminder that our plans, no matter how well-intentioned, are best laid when submitted to the Lord's guiding hand.
Paul is in prison, yet he expresses a desire to be 'cheered.' What brings him such profound joy?
Paul's desire to send Timothy is not just about ministry or logistics; it's deeply personal and relational. He states the purpose: 'that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.' The word for 'comfort' here suggests being of a 'good mind' or 'happy soul.' Paul's joy is directly linked to the well-being of the Philippian church. He longs to hear about their spiritual health, their faithfulness, and how they are navigating their circumstances. This highlights a beautiful aspect of Christian community: our spiritual well-being is interconnected. The joy of a leader is often found in the flourishing of those they shepherd, and the joy of the flock is enhanced by knowing their leaders' hearts are full of love and concern.
Understand the original words
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Kyrios Iesous · Greek Noun phrase
A title of Jesus Christ emphasizing His sovereignty, deity, and supreme authority over all creation and the lives of His followers. It serves as the foundation for the believer's hope and the source of their authority and mission.
psuche · Greek Noun
The state of one's spiritual, physical, or emotional well-being. Biblical concern for welfare involves active, sacrificial care for the needs of others, reflecting the love of Christ.
Paul's imprisonment in Rome wasn't a complete isolation; he depended on trusted companions like Timothy to maintain vital connections with churches like Philippi, showing how relationships and communication sustained the early church even in difficult times.
c. AD 49-50
Paul's First Mission to Philippi
Paul, Silas, and Timothy establish the church in Philippi, a significant Roman colony in Macedonia. Timothy likely stays with the church for a period.
c. AD 50-52
Timothy with Paul in Athens and Corinth
Timothy rejoins Paul, likely in Athens or Corinth, after Paul's initial stay in Philippi. He serves alongside Paul during this crucial period.
c. AD 55-57
Paul Writes First Corinthians
Paul mentions Timothy's impending visit to the Corinthian church, indicating Timothy's continued service and trusted status in ministry.
c. AD 60-62— this verse
Paul's Imprisonment in Rome
Paul is under house arrest in Rome, awaiting trial. He is able to receive visitors and continue his ministry, though under guard.
c. AD 62
Epaphroditus Arrives in Rome
Epaphroditus, a messenger from the Philippian church, arrives in Rome with a gift for Paul, but falls seriously ill. His recovery is a cause for joy.
c. AD 62
Paul Writes the Epistle to the Philippians
During his Roman imprisonment, Paul writes this letter to the church at Philippi, commending their faithfulness and sending Epaphroditus back with the letter.
This passage highlights Paul's deep emotional investment in the well-being of the churches he leads, echoing his desire to be comforted by news from the Philippians through Timothy.
1 Thessalonians 3:1-2Paul sends Timothy to the Thessalonians specifically to strengthen and encourage them, mirroring his intention for Timothy to visit Philippi to learn of their state and offer comfort.
Acts 16:1-3This historical account of Timothy joining Paul's missionary journey provides context for Timothy's close relationship with Paul and his suitability to be sent as a messenger to the churches.
Philippians 1:28-30The mention of the Philippians suffering persecution sheds light on Paul's anxiety and desire to receive news about their steadfastness, which Timothy would bring.
gillPhilippians 2:19: "But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state."
But I trust in the Lord Jesus,.... Or "hope"; not in himself, his wisdom, will, resolutions, and purposes; nor in an arm of flesh, in any human aid and power; nor in princes, nor in Nero, the Roman emperor, as expecting a release from bonds by him, when he could the more easily part with Timothy; but in the Lord Jesus, in the Lord whom every tongue sh…
barnesPhilippians 2:19: "But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state."
But I trust in the Lord Jesus - His hope was that the Lord Jesus would so order affairs as to permit this - an expression that no man could use who did not regard the Lord Jesus as on the throne, and as more that human. To send Timotheus shortly unto you - There was a special reason why Paul desired to send Timothy to them rather than any other person…
Paul's hope isn't just for Timothy to go, but that he himself will be comforted by the news. This reveals Paul's deep spiritual investment in the Philippians' well-being, finding his own comfort not just in his circumstances, but in the flourishing of others.
Paul, under house arrest in Rome, longs to hear from the Philippian church and is sending their beloved associate Timothy to them soon. This visit from Timothy is intended to bring comfort both to the Philippians and to Paul, who anxiously awaits news of their spiritual well-being and steadfastness amidst their struggles. Paul expresses his trust in the Lord Jesus to orchestrate these plans, including his own potential release and visit.
Paul, under house arrest in Rome, longs to hear from the Philippian church and is sending their beloved associate Timothy to them soon. This visit from Timothy is intended to bring comfort both to the Philippians and to Paul, who anxiously awaits news of their spiritual well-being and steadfastness amidst their struggles. Paul expresses his trust in the Lord Jesus to orchestrate these plans, including his own potential release and visit.
"I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered by news of you. For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare." — Paul's hope isn't just for Timothy to go, but that he himself will be comforted by the news. This reveals Paul's deep spiritual investment in the Philippians' well-being, finding his own comfort no…
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Last reviewed October 2026
