John Calvin Commentary Philippians 2:28

"I have sent him therefore the more diligently, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful." — Philippians 2:28 (ASV)

I have sent him the more carefully. The presence of Epaphroditus was no small consolation to him. Yet he preferred the welfare of the Philippians to his own advantage to such a degree that he says he rejoices at Epaphroditus's departure. He did so because it grieved him that Epaphroditus, for Paul's sake, was separated from the flock entrusted to his care, and also because Paul himself was reluctant to make use of Epaphroditus's services—though otherwise agreeable to him—when it meant a loss for the Philippians. Hence he says that he will feel more happiness in the joy of the Philippians.