The Exemplary Hope, Obedience and Care of Paul and Timothy...

INTRODUCTION Paul’s letter to the church at Philippi is very tame when compared to those he wrote to other churches, such as those at Galatia and Corinth (292). This proves to be the case in Philippians 2:19-24. In these six verses Paul is intending to communicate two main points: (1) He believes that Timothy is a respectable teacher of God’s word, and he wants the Philippian congregation to recognize this (Phil 2:22); (2) Paul intends for Timothy’s visit to be encouraging to the Philippian brethren, and for their encouragement to be reciprocated in himself. In writing this section of verses, Paul also communicates another message through implication. Paul is sending Timothy to the church in Philippi because he is unable to go†¦show more content†¦Although Paul’s tone is indicative that he foresees a likelihood of death in his near future, his use of jElpivzw adds dissonance to this idea. Marvin Vincent believes that Paul is not claiming freedom from a dea th sentence. Rather, he is demonstrating his desire to live, and then framing that desire within the context of his submission to Christ’s will (73). On the other hand, Gordon Clark affirms that Paul is counting on living longer, and that his mention of sacrifice in verse 17 was purely metaphorical. Paul uses a a†pax legovmenon, ÃŽ µÃ¡ ½ ÃË†Ãâ€¦Ãâ€¡Ã¡ ¿ ¶, which has no equitable English translation, carries the idea of â€Å"taking to heart† or â€Å"sincerely internalizing† something (78). Paul is communicating the important nature of the mission that Timothy is undertaking. In the final portion of this pericope, Paul reveals that he is waiting on a change, or a sign, before he sends Timothy. However, in verse 19 he uses the adjective tacevwV. This indicates the depth and genuine nature of the trust Paul had in Jesus. Paul relies [ejn] Jesus to deliver him, as he hopes in him. Not only does Paul hope to send him after his current situation is cleared up (verse 24), but he hopes to send him soon. Paul clearly demonstrates his faith by his actions and reliance upon the power of prayer, and the power of Jesus [God] to deliver those who trust and hope in him. This [tacevwV] is