986 B
986 B
Epaphroditus
This is the name of a man sent by the Philippian Church to minister to Paul in prison. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names)
my brother and fellow-worker and fellow-soldier
Here “soldier” is comparing a person who fights physical battles with a believer who fights spiritual battles. Paul is emphasizing that a believer has to struggle against evil in order to spread the gospel. This could be translated as "my fellow believer who works and struggles along with us." (rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)
and your messenger and minister to my need
"and who brings your messages to me and helps when I am in need"
he was deeply distressed and longed to be with you all
"he was very worried and wanted to be with you all"
sorrow upon sorrow
The full meaning of this phrase can be made explicit: "sorrow added to the sorrow I already have from being in prison." (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)