Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus' Story

by Jenifer Jennings

In the raging sea of fear, Epaphroditus finds his faith.

In the bustling colony of Philippi, Epaphroditus, the son of a traveling merchant, finds himself ensnared in the threads of destiny. Blessed with wealth and privilege, his life is shadowed by a prophecy whispered by one of Aphrodite’s a grim fate aboard a ship awaits Epaphroditus.

Living vicariously through his best friend Luke, a compassionate physician traversing the seas to aid the afflicted, Epaphroditus grapples with the threat of mortality and the uncertainty of his future. When a bold traveler named Paul arrives, bearing tales of a humble craftsman from Nazareth named Jesus, Epaphroditus finds himself drawn into a journey of faith.

Join Epaphroditus on his extraordinary odyssey, where he discovers the transformative power of grace and the strength to battle fear with faith. Dare to embark on a journey that will stir your soul and ignite your faith as the letter of Philippians comes to life in Leading Philippi , Book 1 of the Paul’s Patrons series.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Biblical Fiction

358 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 10, 2025

About the author

Jenifer Jennings writes Historical novels that immerse readers in ancient worlds filled with Biblical characters and faith-building stories. Coming to faith in Jesus at seventeen, she spends her days falling in love with her Savior through the study of His Word. Jenifer has a Bachelor’s in Women’s Ministry and graduated with distinction while earning her Master’s in Biblical Languages. When she’s not working on her latest book, Jenifer can be found on a date with her hardworking husband or mothering their two children.

Reviews

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Faith rises in the storm when the sea swells, when the heart trembles, when obedience costs something … maybe everything. When fear could drown every good thought, every good intention, that’s when we need to lift our eyes and surrender our whole heart, soul, and mind to Jesus. It is He who commands the waves. We remember that His hands … strong enough to shape creation … are the same hands that everything must sift through before touching me.

Epaphroditus has become more than a name on the page. I can picture his steps in the dust and the tremble of faith in his chest. Jenifer Jennings writes with reverence … not altering what God has revealed but exploring it with care. Her grasp of culture and time invites you to linger until the truth drawn from Scripture through her story begins to speak.

“Adonai (Jesus) … He is the Creator and Sustainer, holding all things together … even you.” Those words don’t ask to be analyzed; they simply need to be believed. I sat in their quiet power, aware that every heartbeat depends on the One who holds all things together.

This story breathes Scripture. The faith within it feels raw and real … anchored in Jesus, steady in truth. I found myself whispering prayers between sentences, asking my Savior to keep transforming my heart, mind, and soul, and to teach me courage that endures every time fear tries to rise.

“Epaphroditus allowed himself one last look at all of them. He saw not just individuals, but a body, aching, imperfect, faithful.” That’s what the Church looks like when love and grace define it … can you feel it?

When I reached, “He could do nothing but pray,” I understood it as more than a moment ... it’s the posture of every heart that has learned dependence.

This book moved me. Deeply. I didn’t want it to end because it felt like home: honest faith, humble words, holy ground.

I love biblical fiction that refuses to rewrite the lives God has already written. This one honors them. It listens instead of invents. It draws light from truth rather than shadow from imagination.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the author. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Dakota Holmes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlike any Christian Fiction novel I’ve ever read!! The imagery draws you in from the very FIRST chapter. The slapping of sandals, the shenanigans of a young kid, the want to find the perfect gift.

The book is told from the POV of a boy who grows into a man in a town before the influence of Christ. You see historically accurate events take place, as well as historically accurate family/marriage dynamics. And the ending is JUST powerful.

It reads, in my opinion, as well as a YA Rick Riordan novel. I would highly recommend to anyone especially those who may have bias for CF as it’s not your typical “Hallmark” novel.

Jenifer Jennings truly knocked this one out of the park, and I can’t wait for her to finish this series!!

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an exciting story of Epaphroditus and his journey and conversion to Christ, as well as other Biblical characters that were involved. The story strikes a balance between fiction and biblical truths. I enjoyed the author's descriptions of the surroundings and the customs of that time. I felt like I was there with them.

I read the book in one sitting and could not put it down. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves Biblical fiction. I loved the scripture at the beginning of each chapter.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Matthew James Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leading Philippi is a vivid, emotionally rich novel that brings the early Christian community of Philippi to life with cinematic clarity. As a biblical fiction writer myself, I was honored to read this early and found it deeply engaging. Jennings’ research shines through—her descriptions of ancient streets and merchant shops made the setting feel tangible and immersive.

The relationship between Luke and Epaphroditus anchors the story with heartfelt depth, and every character interaction is beautifully rendered. Epaphroditus’ personal struggles are portrayed with authenticity, offering readers both encouragement and reflection. Jennings weaves spiritual themes into the narrative with grace, creating a story that feels both historically grounded and personally transformative.

This is not just a novel—it’s an experience. I’m already preparing for a second read and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys biblical fiction. This review is written entirely of my own accord.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m always amazed when an author can take someone who is mentioned briefly in the Scriptures and create a whole world around them. This is exactly what Jenifer has done with Epaphroditus, a name only seen twice in scripture.
She explores the relationship between Epaphroditus and Luke and later in the story, Paul. But the main theme of the book is Epaphroditus’ battle with fear. Fear that controls his life and eventually tries to take his life.
This was a very enjoyable read, but also a book that will make you examine your own fears… Examine whether they are holding you back from what God could truly do in your life if you would let go of fear.
I would highly recommend this book.

(I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.)

[Sandy Kay Slawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leading Philippi is Biblical fiction at its best. While it sucks the readers back into biblical times, conveying the sights, smells, sounds, and dangers of AD 37, Paphos, Cyprus, especially for Christians, the language of the story is easy to read and understand.

Epaphroditus has lived his life frightened of an early demise because of a prophecy Aphrodite’s priestess spoke over him as a child. This fear has kept him close to home despite his merchant father’s desire for him to follow in his footsteps at sea. At times, it appears Epaphroditus’ nightmares might come to fruition, but when his friend Luke introduces him to Paul, who is sharing the story of Jesus the Nazarene, will his faith in Aphrodite be challenged? Will he realize a god of stone really can’t hear his prayers for protection or control his destiny?

When Epaphroditus is met with multiple tragedies, will he be the man of faith his family needs? His community needs? A man whose faith turns from a statue to the God of all creation? And will this faith and encouragement of his loved ones, and Paul himself, finally break the chains of fear once and for all?

This story is full of highs, lows, and highs again. Definitely worth the read, and I highly recommend this book!

[Joni Granrud · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leading Philippi by Jenifer Jennings captured my interest from the first page! Jenifer Jennings crafts this book, beginning at Paphos, Cyprus in 37AD, with the sights and sounds of the first century. The sentences are poetic and beautiful making for wonderful reading replete with scenes so real on your journey through the pages. It follows closely to the Bible and lays out the paths of the early Greek Christians; specifically Epaphroditus named after Aphrodite. He can’t let go of prophecy heard as a little boy that hampers him from embracing the sea choosing the olive gardens instead. Epaphroditus does shed his former beliefs to embrace the teachings of Christ and sees not only his family, friends but the church grow in a big way. Luke the physician, is in this great fictional book that works in concert with Scripture faithfully. Epaphroditus is moved by love and faith as he bravely helps the Apostle Paul later in the book. Great reading and you won’t want to put it down! It is exciting to know that this book is the first of the Paul’Patrons Series so buckle up there are more to look forward to. Find all Jenifer Jennings books at Jenifer Jennings.com/books. Joni Granrud

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Jenifer Jennings writes Biblical Fiction that clearly highlights her thorough research. Biblical Fiction fleshes out those written about in the Bible with inspiring details that provide readers with a better idea of how different it was to live in historical times and does not add to scripture in any way. This is a must read. I know you will enjoy the exciting journey Epaphroditus takes as well as meeting out of the ordinary characters.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great start to a new series! It follows Epephroditus in Phillipi, during a span of time that covers all of 1 and 2 Phillipians. After Epephroditus and his friend Luke hear Paul speak Epephroditus grows in faith. He goes from conversion to a leader of the Phillipian followers. The story is how he grows in faith and overcomes a fear that followed him most of his life. I liked the historical background information, it immerses you in the particular time and place. The characters, even the background ones, are well rounded and enjoyable.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jenifer Jennings’ Paul’s Patrons series is off to a great start with Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus’ Story! Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus’ Story transports the Reader back to Bible Times during the time of the Book of Acts where Readers meet Epaphroditus. As a young child, Epaphroditus travels to Paphos, Cyprus with his mom to worship at the Sanctuary of Aphrodite. While at the Sanctuary, Epaphroditus receives a dooming prophecy that colors his entire life. Returning home to Philippi, as Epaphroditus gets older, he depends heavily on his lifelong friendship with Luke, who grows up to be a doctor, and Luke’s sister, Melody. Luke and Melody’s upbringing is something Epaphroditus has always craved, causing Epaphroditus to spend every moment he can with Luke—and Melody. When Luke starts to share ideas and beliefs of a man called Jesus, Epaphroditus wonders even more about the way he was raised and questions the things that he was taught to believe.

I love Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus’ Story and where Jenifer Jennings is taking the Paul’s Patrons series! I love how Ms. Jennings immersed Readers into the Philippian culture, showing how the Philippian people worship and serve what they believe to be gods. I felt that by immersing the Readers into the culture, it gave the Readers better understanding of Epaphroditus as a character. I know having Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus’ Story written that way made my heart soft towards Epaphroditus and made me root for Epaphroditus all through the book to come to the Lord. I loved that Luke made an appearance in Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus’ Story and I hope Luke makes a future appearance in the Paul’s Patrons series in some capacity. I love how some of my favorite stories and people from the Book of Acts made an appearance in Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus’ Story, and how those elements were woven into the storyline. I love how I saw God softening Epaphroditus’ heart towards Him and others before he made a decision to be a Follower. If you are looking for a read that takes you through new Cultural depths into Bible times, while shining the Light of Jesus, then I highly recommend Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus’ Story by Jenifer Jennings! I’m excited to where Ms. Jennings takes the Paul’s Patrons series next!

Have you read Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus’ Story by Jenifer Jennings? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank Jenifer Jennings for giving me a copy of Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus’ Story to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

My review is also Amazon and my blog Leslie’s Library Escape.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderfully inspiring book this was, encouraging much food for thought throughout the reading, and beyond! I found myself during the day, when I wasn’t reading, thinking about the story and its interesting cast of real characters (those actually mentioned in the Book of Philippians) and the fictional ones that were added by Ms. Jennings to really draw you in. I loved reading about the main character, Epaphroditus—his personal struggles with the faith in Aphrodite that he grew up with, his relationship with Luke, Lydia, and later with Paul after his conversion. Euodia and Syntyche, the very real characters also mentioned by Paul in his letter to the Philippians, added a very realistic flair to the story, that made this reader very sympathetic to Epaphroditus’ frustration with them. (I found myself being frustrated with them as well!)

I also enjoyed the interactions between Epaphroditus and the servants in his household. It’s not easy to understand and relate to all the struggles that a servant goes through when you don’t live in a culture like that, but Ms. Jennings skillfully weaved their plight during those ancient times into the story with compassion and grace. I was impressed also with the characterization of Lydia, and the enormous impact she had on the early church through her strong leadership with women and men alike. Even her skill as a weaver of beautiful fabrics and her abilities as a savvy businesswoman were woven into the story beautifully. I could go on and on about all the things I enjoyed and was impressed by in this story, but I’ll leave you with this: You should read this book!

I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author, and I am very grateful and pleased to have been given the opportunity to read such a beautiful and inspirational book.

[Jan Goodard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have you ever wondered about the people Paul mentions in his epistles? People like Timothy, Lydia, Epaphroditus and others. What were their lives like before Paul entrusted his churches to them. The author weaves historical research and Biblical events with a fictional reading to give the reader a pausible illustration of their lives.This story follows Epaphroditus, his family and friends as they transition from Aphrodite worshipers to Christ worshipers. The author does take a little license with a close friendship between the physician, Luke and Epaphroditus. Why not? Both were Greeks and compassionate men, so why couldn't they be friends?. Their relationship is an important factor in Epaphroditus' conversion. For some reason in my mind I kept calling the title Leaving Philippi. When Epaphroditus was a child an Aphrodite priestess told him that death awaited him across the Great Sea. His whole life he was afraid to travel by boat because it would bring his death. Entrusted with carrying the church's offerings to Paul in Rome, he knew what he had to do. Conquer his fear. However, by leaving Philippi he found his one faith. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this story...having just studied the book of Philippians, it really brought those Scriptures to life for me. The characters were very well thought-out and the plot was engaging and easy to understand. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.

I found the character of Luke very interesting; it was "neat" to truly picture him as a physician. Visualizing him in that role helped to bring him to life, and added a richness to what I already knew about him from reading Scripture. I also found it interesting to think about how much Epaphroditus (and the others) were so shaped by the false gods of their culture before being introduced to the message of Christianity. I was raised in a Christian home, so this way of thinking has always been natural for me, but reading about his thoughts and beliefs and how they guided his adult life really stresses how life-changing Christianity can be, especially for those who are shaped by other belief systems (or a lack of belief system).

[The Bookish Pilgrim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jennings gets better with every book of hers that I read and this was no exception. Leading Philippi, which is Ephaphroditus' fictionalized story from the dark realms of paganism, grabbed me by my throat.

Ephaphroditus' journey to light is beautifully chronicled as is his journey from fear to full surrender, faith and trust in the Lord who gave his life and shed his blood for him.

The events in the jail - (not the biblical ones), but the additional ones felt a little unreal, given the severity of treatment Paul and Silas went through.

While the initial beginnings were promising, later chapters dealing with events post Paul's visit had me struggling to get through. Somehow, it felt kind of rushed, missing the level of care and detail the very promising beginning had; that keeps it from being really great fiction. Overall, it's a good read, but not great.

I received an ARC to read, but the opinions voiced here are my own.

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story revealing Epaphroditus’ life

In her inimitable way, Jenifer Jennings creates a very believable story of doubt, fear, and then saving faith in our God. Grief and love share in this well-written story about Paul and the Philippian church. Coming right out of Scripture, Jennings allows us glimpses into one of Paul’s best helpers, Epaphroditus, who fought his way up through unimaginable darkness and fear, to show the miraculous grace of our loving God. Thank you , Ms Jennings, for fleshing out this beautiful story. We will meet the true characters when we are together in heaven. The Apostle Paul and Dr. Luke are impressive in their true characterizations, straight out of the Bible books of Acts and Philippians. Timothy, and Clement, also, “true yoke fellows” in the sharing of the Gospel of Christ come alive in this exciting story.
I very much look forward to future testimonies of Paul’s Patrons!

[Roger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leading Philippi: Epaphroditus' Story (Paul's Patrons Book 1), my seventeenth read from Christian author Jenifer Jennings. Another amazing 358-page well-written fictionalized expansion of Biblical times. Jenning's writing is incredible, inserting characters into the Bublical story that are believeable and fit into the history. “I received a complementary Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I'll definitely be reading more from this author and look forward to Jenning's next book, Keeping Thessalonica: Persis' Story (Paul's Patrons Book 2) when it's published in August of next year. RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[Lana Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an enthralling and exciting book about a young man who is currently an idol worshiper. The story goes into great detail of his life and how, when he is downtown one day, a man comes to town named Paul, whom some of his friends were so excited to see and hear speak. So, Epaphroditus joins them. Eventually, the Holy Spirit draws Epaphroditus to Himself, and he throws the idols out of his house and begins his walk with Jesus, his Savior! This author weaves the story of how he becomes.a worker for the Lord and all of the struggles he has to endure. This was such an amazingly well-written book, that I recommend it to EVERYONE! I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest opinion of the same. 📕♥️🙏

[Audrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leading Philippi follows Epaphroditus, a privileged young man in the Roman city of Philippi who lives under the fear of a dark prophecy spoken over his life. Everything shifts when Paul the Apostle arrives with a message about Jesus that opens a door to hope he’s never known.

As Epaphroditus wrestles with fear, faith, and his own identity, he discovers grace that reshapes his destiny. It’s a gentle, faith-filled story about letting go of fear and stepping into a calling bigger than himself.

[Kathleen Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captures what Paul and the early Christians had to deal with

This was well done. There is strong character development. I enjoyed the range of isuues that were brought in as the Scriptually based events were woven into the story.

[Barbara Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brings the people to life

This story of Epaphroditis, though embellished I’m sure, brought to life the people of this time in history. The quoting of actual Scripture throughout the writing was encouraging and oh, such a blessing! Read it and weep!

[Loretta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read! Like all of This author’s books it’s Biblically sound and an engaging story.

[Rhonda Boehm · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a.good book.

[Alicia Van · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved experiencing the world of the first-century church, exploring what it might have looked like for those first followers as they embraced a counter-cultural faith. They abandoned their family's gods and traditions for a radically new lifestyle. Societal divides broke down as they became brothers and sisters in Christ. Epaphroditus, Lydia, Clement. These are names only briefly mentioned in scripture, but their stand for Jesus changed their city. Ms. Jennings did a wonderful job of imagining these first converts and the birth of faith in Philippi. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.

My only dislike was the length and the slow start. In the beginning, we are introduced to Luke, and soon after to Lydia. And our minds quickly run to the where, when, and how of their journeys intersecting with Paul's. But it's not until halfway through the book that we reach that intersection. Considering that this is the big draw of the book, the reason I am excited to read, I felt that the first half of the book dragged on too long. But overall, it was a great read.

I received an advanced copy of this book, but all thoughts expressed are freely my own.

[Una · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leading Philippi tells the background story of the church in Philippi. The Bible book of Philippians tells of Epaphroditus in six of its verses. Out of these verses and the rest of Philippians, Jennings weaves a story that based on history and the Bible. She tells the story of Epaphroditus and his doctor friend Luke of how they met Paul. Her story makes the book of Philippians come alive.

I received a complimentary ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.