2:21 seek their own. This attitude, unfortunately, is characteristic of most people, even professing Christians. In contrast, the Biblical standard is that expressed in the testimony of the Apostle Paul: “For to me to live is Christ” (Philippians 1:21).

2:25 messenger. “Messenger” here is apostolos, usually translated “apostle” (but see II Corinthians 8:23, where the same word is also translated “messengers”). Thus, Epaphroditus had been an “apostle,” or “messenger,” of the church at Philippi to Paul. Churches could send out their own “apostles” for various ministries, but to be an “apostle of Jesus Christ,” one must be specifically chosen and sent directly and in person by Christ Himself, after His resurrection. See note on I Corinthians 9:1.

2:26 heaviness. That is, “intense concern.”