John Chrysostom

"But I counted it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and fellow-worker, and fellow-soldier." And him too he sends with the same praises as Timothy, for he commended him on these two points; first, in that he loved them, when he says, "who will care truly for you"; and secondly, in that he had approved himself in the Gospel. And for the same reason, and in the same terms, he praises this man also: and how? …

Homily on Philippians 9 ↗

Theophylact of Ohrid

He sends this one too with praise, just like Timothy, and for the very same reason we mentioned above. "Fellow soldier" is greater than "fellow worker," because in safe undertakings anyone might cooperate, but a "fellow soldier" cooperates in dangers. "But your messenger and minister to my need." That is, the one sent by you to me I am returning to you; for through him they were sending what was necessary to Paul. Or else: your apostle means your teacher.

Commentary on Philippians ↗

Ignatius of Antioch

I do not ordain these things as an apostle: for "who am I, or what is my father's house," that I should pretend to be equal in honour to them? But as your "fellow-soldier," I hold the position of one who [simply] admonishes you.

Epistle of Ignatius to the Philadelphians ↗

Thomas Aquinas

Then when he says, I have thought it necessary, he proposes another disciple as an example, namely, Epaphroditus. First, he describes him; secondly, he suggests how he should be received (2:29). In regard to the first he does three things: first, he praises him; secondly, he states the reason why he is sending him (2:26); thirdly, he explains it (2:27). He says, therefore: I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need. …

Commentary on Philippians ↗