Philippians 2:20

Likeminded. Literally, “of equal soul” (cf. Deut. 13:6). Paul means either that he has no one like himself or that he has no one the equal of Timothy. Timothy was a second Paul. Since Paul could not investigate the condition of the church personally, the best substitute would be a report of conditions at Philippi given by Timothy.

Timothy was Paul’s son in the faith (1 Tim. 1:2). Timothy recognized his spiritual relationship and conducted himself accordingly (1 Cor. 16:10; Phil. 2:22). From his spiritual father the younger man inherited his interests and affections. Thus no one could have been better qualified for the task at hand than the young man who would naturally take a genuine interest in the welfare of those who were Paul’s spiritual children and therefore Timothy’s brothers and sisters in the faith. There is a scarcity of men like-minded with the apostle — men of earnest, spontaneous, self-denying zeal — but it is such men whom the Lord Jesus needs. Timothy was like-minded with Paul because each had the mind of Christ. Only possession of the mind of Jesus will enable men successfully to guide the church of God in the last days. The church is the supreme object of God’s love and care, and those who are like-minded with the Lord, whether they be laymen or leaders, will have the same attitude and will assume the same jealous watchcare over all its members and activities. They cannot do otherwise.

Naturally. Rather, “genuinely,” “sincerely.”

Care for. Gr. merimnao, “to be anxious” (see on Matt. 6:25). It is no casual care that Paul has in mind.