Philippians 2:28

I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.

Cross-references

Philippians 2:26 describes Epaphroditus' longing and distress—Paul's sending him in verse 28 directly addresses that distress.

Philippians 2:27 Historical context

Philippians 2:27 explains Epaphroditus' illness and recovery — the reason Paul can now send him to bring joy and lessen anxiety.

In Philippians 2:19, Paul sends Timothy to be cheered by their news — here he sends Epaphroditus so they may be glad, showing two directions of comfort.

John 16:22 Parallel

John 16:22 has Jesus promising 'I will see you again and you will rejoice' — nearly identical phrasing to Paul's 'when you see him again you may rejoice'.

Acts 20:38 Contrast

Acts 20:38 describes sorrow because they will never see Paul's face again — the opposite of the joyful reunion Paul anticipates here.

In 2 Timothy 1:4, Paul longs to see Timothy to be filled with joy — same desire for mutual joy through reunion as in this verse.

In Colossians 4:8, Paul sends Tychicus to encourage hearts — a nearly identical mission to Epaphroditus, sent to bring gladness and reduce anxiety.

In 1 Corinthians 16:18, Paul commends those who refresh his spirit and the church's — Epaphroditus serves a similar refreshing role for both.

2 Corinthians 2:3 shows Paul writing to avoid distress and ensure shared joy — a parallel to his aim here of rejoicing and less anxiety.

In 2 Corinthians 7:13, Paul rejoices that Titus was refreshed by the Corinthians — analogous to sending Epaphroditus for mutual comfort and joy.