“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.”
I hope therefore to send him to you soon, so that I too may be cheered by news of you — Paul's hope (elpizō) rests on Timothy's mission: sending Timothy to visit is both for the Philippians' benefit and for Paul's comfort. 'Cheered' (euthymeō, encouraged, literally 'good-spirited') suggests morale restoration. Paul's concern for their welfare (even in imprisonment) is reciprocated by his eagerness for news of them. The emotional bond transcends geographical separation. Timothy becomes the epistolary messenger, carrying Paul's presence.
Church Fathers on Philippians 2:19
He had said, “have fallen out unto the progress of the Gospel; so that my bonds became manifest in Christ throughout the whole prætorian guard.” Philippians 1:12-13 Again, “Yea, and if I am offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith.” Philippians 2:17 By these words he strengthened them. Perchance they might suspect that his former words were spoken just to comfort them. What then? “I send Timothy unto you,” says he; for they desired to hear all things that…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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