Epaphroditus is writing down what Paul says, probably helping him write parts of it (puns, play on words, etc.), delivered the message (he know what it was to say) and probably read it (not many people read in those days).

As with any good play on words, Epaphroditus could slide the pronunciation as needed, mis-speak and then correct himself - after putting the idea in the heads of those listening, etc.

Paul would not have called himself a "fellow soldier" with Epaphroditus if Epaphroditus was not a soldier. There were many (retired) soldiers in Philippi who would not have liked that.

As a good soldier, Epaphroditus could play dumb when needed, are just give a hint of a smile or twinkle in his eye when someone would ask, "Does it really say such and such?".

And Paul would not have been so bold as to embed word play on the name of Epaphroditus in chapter 2. It may have been Epaphroditus who suggested the idea. This leads to what appears as a break in continuity in the letter. It sets up the multiple play on words. ... more to be added ...

If Epaphroditus worked with Paul on the letter, they might have had a unique "synergy" of two individuals who liked to create puns, play on words, etc. This can be annoying to those who do not like it. It appears that Paul was under house arrest at this time since the household of Caesar was mentioned. I have heard pastors say that Paul was in a Roman prison at this time.

If you had been listening to Paul and Epaphroditus crafting such puns, etc., you might be glad to have that synergy gone. You would "greet" those (with pity) to whom this special letter is being sent.

Why was Epaphroditus twice near death? Why was it mentioned twice? The Greek for "sorrow" is that of being "annoyed".

Here is a possible exchange.

• Paul: Epaphroditus. Are you all right? Are you near death again?
• Epaphroditus: This is not funny, but it is so funny, I am dying laughing. Yes, I am near death again for the work of Christ.
• Paul: Write it down.

In Philippians 3:18 Paul is "weeping" having written about the "enemies" of Christ - which appear to be some of the church at Philippi - via puns, play on words, double meanings, etc. Here is a possible exchange.

• Epaphroditus: Paul, you are laughing so hard you are weeping.
• Paul: It's not funny, but yes, I am laughing so hard I have tears in my eyes. I am weeping.
• Epaphroditus: Let's write it down.

In addition to puns, play on words, double-meanings, etc., in Philippians, It appears there may be a coded message indicating the role Epaphroditus played in the letter. The important content is not in hidden text.

There are other such messages in the GNT by Jesus and others. Those messages appear to carry no important meanings other than authentication (the Bible message is true) and, as a side-effect, warnings about false teachings - which are already present in clear text.