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For they all seek their own things, not the things of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 2:21)

Many people then and today are wrapped up in their own glory, seeking a name for themselves and not seeking to hold forth the name and glory of Jesus Christ. Paul is not saying that they were unsaved or unbelievers, but that they seek to help when the gain of the Kingdom is in line with their gain. So few held devotions to Christ and the church. It is possible to be admired, an eloquent speaker or teacher, and still be a self-seeker, one who uses the gifts of God for their own recognition and position in the church.

Because of that, his only choice to send to them was Timothy. Paul says that he can truly trust (and in turn, they should also) Timothy, so that is why he is sending him.^[1] Timothy is our example in that he put spiritual interests before all other things. Although Paul was imprisoned in Rome, he saw that the brothers were excessively engaged with their personal matters. In some ways, they were frugal when it came to their spirituality. This could not be said of Timothy! When openings occurred to spread the good news, his attitude was to be the first to offer himself.

For they all seek their own things. We cannot know just how many people had with him at this time. Paul had over 100 traveling companions. His comments are not meant for these because they often expended themselves to further the good news. His remarks were likely meant for a large number of Christian brothers there in Rome. Paul had probably invited some to take a message to Philippi. They declined because of the great distance, not to mention that travel in those days was quite dangerous because of highwaymen, who lurked about seeking to rob travelers.

Moreover, when Paul was tried before the Roman Emperor, all deserted him. (2 Tim. 4:16) So, it is also possible that these ones who put their self-interests first had already been displaying this mindset, so Paul could say that they sought to do their own things that brought them comfort. They were not prepared to deny themselves to assist Paul and help their fellow brothers in Philippi. How likely are Christian brothers today to set aside their businesses and home comforts and go a great distance to care for a church for 2-3 months? Would many not beg off from doing so, seeking their own things instead of helping Jesus Christ?

Not the things of Christ Jesus. Many then and many now are unwilling to deny themselves the comforts of life in order to spread the good news or assist the body of Christ. Few are willing to risk themselves, their businesses, and their livelihood to assist the Kingdom and the King. Who will be the first to offer themselves for the furtherance of the truth if it meant more than donations but rather meant putting some aspects of their lives in jeopardy?

[1] J. Vernon McGee, Thru the Bible with J. Vernon McGee, Vol. V, V vols. (Nashville, Tenn.: Thomas Nelson, 1983). Page 308.