2:28 I sent him therefore the more carefully. The more diligently (Revised Version). Because his brethren at home were so anxious about him.
That, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice. Their joy in seeing him will be a joy to Paul also, so that he will
be the less sorrowful over his absence.
2:28 That I may be the less sorrowful - When I know you are rejoicing.
2:19-30 It is best with us, when our duty becomes natural to us. Naturally, that is, sincerely, and not in pretence only; with a willing heart and upright views. We are apt to prefer our own credit, ease, and safety, before truth, holiness, and duty; but Timothy did not so. Paul desired liberty, not that he might take pleasure, but that he might do good. Epaphroditus was willing to go to the Philippians, that he might be comforted with those who had sorrowed for him when he was sick. It seems, his illness was caused by the work of God. The apostle urges them to love him the more on that account. It is doubly pleasant to have our mercies restored by God, after great danger of their removal; and this should make them more valued. What is given in answer to prayer, should be received with great thankfulness and joy.
