Boy New Testament Rare
Epaphroditus
agreeable; handsome
Ἐπαφρόδιτος Epaphroditos
Epaphroditus (Greek: Ἐπαφρόδιτος, Epaphroditos) means “agreeable; handsome”, by traditional interpretation. Two men in scripture bear the name; the best attested belongs to the Apostolic period. In United States birth records the name is below the reporting threshold. Appears in the same passages as Apphia.
Which Epaphroditus?
Two men in scripture bear this name. Here is each of them.
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Epaphroditus
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Epaphroditus
Scripture against society
The two measures, side by side
At a glance
- Verses
- 6 across 3 books
- Bearers
- 2 distinct people in scripture
- Testament
- New
- Era
- Apostolic
Using it today
In United States birth records this name is below the reporting threshold. The Social Security Administration does not publish counts under five, so a name given to four children looks the same as one given to none.
In scripture
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| First appears | Philippians 2:25 |
| Last appears | Philemon 1:23 |
| Cross-references | 218 linked passages |
Names connected to this one
- Epaphras co-occurrence Appears with Epaphras in Colossians 4.
- Archippus co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Archippus.
- Demas co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Demas.
- Apphia co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Apphia.
- Jesus co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Jesus.
- Clement co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Clement.
- Euodia co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Euodia.
- Justus co-occurrence Appears in the same passages as Justus.
Origin & meaning
Ἐπαφρόδιτος, -ου, ὁ
(i.e. charming);
Epaphroditus: Php.2:5 4:18.†
(AS)
Epaphroditus was a beloved brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier who ministered to Paul's needs on behalf of the Philippians.
The biblical story
Epaphroditus was a prominent member of the church in Philippi and a close associate of the apostle Paul. He is described as a beloved brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier (Php.2.25), indicating his significant role in the ministry and his strong relationship with Paul. Epaphroditus was sent by the Philippian church to deliver a gift to Paul and to minister to his needs while he was in prison (Php.4.18). This demonstrates the love and support of the Philippian believers towards Paul and their commitment to partnering with him in the gospel ministry. During his time with Paul, Epaphroditus became ill and nearly died (Php.2.26,27). This caused great concern and sorrow among the Philippians, who held him in high regard. However, God had mercy on him, and he recovered (Php.2.27). Paul commended Epaphroditus for his sacrificial service and urged the Philippians to receive him with joy and honor (Php.2.29). Epaphroditus's willingness to risk his life for the work of Christ and his dedication to serving Paul and the church make him an exemplary figure in the early Christian community. His story highlights the close bonds and mutual support within the body of Christ, even across distances, and the sacrificial nature of Christian service.
Key verses
Epaphroditus appears in 3 verses. Here are some of the most notable:
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Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.
Philippians 2:25 -
But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.
Philippians 4:18 -
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. It was written to the Philippians from Rome by Epaphroditus.
Philippians 4:23
Show all 3 references
Philippians (3)
- Philippians 2:25
- Philippians 4:18
- Philippians 4:23