Philippians 2:22

Ye know. There seems to have been frequent intercourse between the Philippian church and the young evangelist, Timothy. He had been with Paul at the founding of the church (see on Acts 16:1, 13; 17:14). It seems possible that he had visited Philippi at least twice during the Third Missionary Journey (see Acts 19:22; 20:3-6). Now Paul had chosen him for another visit.

Proof. That is, the Philippians knew how Timothy’s character had been tried and approved, and were aware of his attachment to Paul and his faithfulness in gospel service.

As a son with the father. Rather, “as a son to a father.” It appears that Paul was about to speak of Timothy’s faithful ministration to him, personally. But in characteristic humility he speaks of Timothy and himself as fellow workers in gospel service. If we may judge Timothy’s character from the directions given him by Paul in 1 and 2 Timothy (see on 1 Tim. 4:12), it would seem that Timothy was gentle and warmhearted rather than commanding. Paul may have sensed the need for this emphatic commendation of his friend (cf. on 1 Cor. 16:10).