30 Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.
30 because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.
30 for he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me.
30 Remember the ministry to me that you started but weren't able to complete? Well, in the process of finishing up that work, he put his life on the line and nearly died doing it.
30 because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me.
30 For he risked his life for the work of Christ, and he was at the point of death while doing for me what you couldn't do from far away.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Philippians 2:30
Commentary on Philippians 2:19-30
(Read Philippians 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.