Philippians

Introduction

Philippians is one of Paul’s ‘prison epistles’. It was written during his time under arrest in Rome (Acts 28:30, Phil 1:13). He writes to a church in Philippi, which was a major city in Macedonia at the time (Acts 16:12) – modern day Greece.

Paul visited this city first on his second missionary journey, and planted a church under difficult circumstances. He was imprisoned during his time in Philippi as well, so the church at Philippi would not have been bothered by his current situation in Rome.

This church was quite fond of Paul and provided means for his ministry (4:15-19). He is also deeply fond of them, considering them his “joy and crown” (4:1). Not many negative things are said about this church, save short inferences to disunity (2:1-4, 4:2), to which Paul provides a solution: humility. Chapter 2 reveals the greatest demotion in history: God becoming a man to pay for the sins of the world. Keeping Christ in ‘mind’ will keep dysfunction away.

The theme of this letter is clearly having joy in the midst of our circumstances. Paul writes in “bonds” (1:16), yet he is able to be “abased” or “abound” (4:12) and rejoice in any circumstance (4:4). As we read this epistle, it should challenge us to consider our attitude in our present reality and align with some sage advice from the great apostle and the Lord Himself.

Chapter 1

In chapter 1 we hear Paul’s heart and care for the Philippians. He encourages this church, prays for them and lets them know of his state in prison and the likely outcome of his trial (v25), but whether he would get that outcome or not, he was ready to see Jesus. He ends this chapter with encouraging yet sobering words to “suffer for his sake” (v29).

V1-11 Greeting and Prayer

This letter clearly begins with the author, “Paul” (V1), along with his accomplice “Timotheus” (v1). Knowing that this is a ‘prison epistle’, we assume that Timothy had visited Paul at the time of writing. Paul writes to both the church, “the saints” and the leaders, “the bishops and deacons” (v1) that were in this church in Philippi. He begins with “grace” (v2) and gratitude for this church, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you” (v4). Paul and the church in Philippi had experienced a lot together, by way of difficulty (Acts 16:12-40), and it clearly forged a special relationship between them – as is the case whenever we serve the Lord together with others.

We see a special relationship that Paul has with this church, he has them “in my heart” (v7), and he longs after them “in the bowels of Jesus Christ” (v9). This causes him to pray for them regularly, “always in every prayer of mine for you all” (v4), as it is most easy to do for those we love. It was his “joy” to pray for them” (v4). If we would simply serve the Lord together with others, we could build deep bonds with them, and it would make our prayer life a whole lot simpler and more passionate!

Before his prayer, Paul gives us some more information about this church. He affirms them of their place in Christ, “your fellowship in the gospel” (v5) and encourages them that the Lord will complete in them what He begun, “that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ” (v6). What a sweet hope this verse has been to many Christians over the years! It is a great proof of eternal security, that our salvation rests with the Lord, not with us! Praise God.

Paul was sitting in “bonds” (v7), under Roman custody at the time of writing, yet when he peered off in his mind to picture this church and pray for them, it encouraged him, and says that even while arrested, “it is meet for me to think this if you all” (v7). What an encouragement Paul is! He stands ready in trial “in the defense and confirmation of the gospel” (v7) yet he is still thinking of others! Let’s look at what he prayed for:

Love to Abound

Though we don’t see people mentioned by name or have a record of a quarrel within the church, Philippi, like every church, would need prayer for their love to “abound yet more and more” (v9). Though not directly addressed, it would seem there were some in the church that needed the admonition which would come later in 2:1-4. Love here is “in knowledge and in all judgment” (v9), so it is not without accountability. Love is always with truth (1 Cor 13:6)! The heart of a good pastor should always be for their church to grow in the love of God and towards each other.

Approve Things Excellent

All Christians need discernment to discover and pursue that which is “excellent” (v10). There are many things that we could do with our lives, and many ministries our church could perform, but what is “a more excellent way” (1 Cor 12:31) and what has God called us to? This will take some proving out, “that ye may approve things that are excellent” (v10) means that we must inspect and challenge the things of our lives and our church so that they are “sincere and without offence” (v10). Paul uses the thought of the impending return of Christ to motivate the Philippians, “till the day of Christ” (v10). That day helps us to better inspect our actions knowing that we will all give an account (Rom 14:12, 2 Cor 5:10). A good pastor wants his people to make decisions now based on that day.

Filled with the Spirit

Lastly, Paul prays that this church would be “filled with the fruits of righteousness” (v11), which is an identifying marker of walking in the Spirit (Eph 5:9). As we are filled with the Spirit of God and led “by Jesus Christ” (v11), we can give “glory and praise” (v11) unto God. Nothing else in this world will do! The flesh cannot praise Him. The heart of a good pastor desires his people to walk with God on their own, and when he is not around! 

V12-18 Bonds and Affliction

Paul sees his personal circumstances as beneficial! Though he was not ‘free’ at the time, he was leveraging his unique season to share Christ, “the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel” (v12). Oh what a heart he had! What if we can say that because of “our bonds in Christ” (v13) that the gospel would be “manifest” in places like “the palace”, across the world and “in all other places” (v13)? Would you count the bonds of affliction worth the expansion of the gospel? Ironically, in Paul’s case God uses Paul more in his bonds than if he were free!

His current situation could have easily discouraged others, but it had the opposite effect! Because Paul was used so greatly in his imprisonment, and he continued to boldy preach Christ, so did others, “many of the brethren… waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear” (v14). Sometimes all we need is an example, as Paul was to the churches in his day. Would you be willing to suffer so that others could be emboldened in their faith?

The results of Paul’s circumstances produced mixed results. While the gospel was being preached, some had preached Christ “of envy and strife; and some also of good will” (v15). There were people in Paul’s life that were preaching the gospel, though not believing it, “of contention” to make his situation worse, “to add affliction to my bonds” (v16). Either way and whatever his circumstances were, he was “set for the defence of the gospel” (v17), always ready to share Christ and rejoicing in every opportunity he was given. If the gospel was getting airtime, “whether pretence, or in truth” he would rejoice that “Christ is preached” (v18).

V19-26 Life or Death

Paul saw two outcomes from his trial while in prison, he would either be set free, “this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer” (v19), or he would be killed (v20). He was not ashamed of the testimony of Christ and would continue to glorify Jesus, “whether it be by life, or by death” (v20). Here he gives us the famous line that “Christ shall be magnified in my body” (v20). Either way, Jesus would be honored, and he was ready to die, considering it “gain” (v21). He would make no effort to sway the decision in his trial, “I shall choose I wot not” (v22), meaning he was indifferent to the results, yet if he continued to live, he would be for Jesus, “to live in Christ” (v21).

We catch the true heart of the apostle in verse 23, he was “in a strait betwixt”, torn between two loves. He would rather “depart, and… be with Christ” (v23), but it was “more needful” for him to remain “in the flesh” (v24) for the sake of the ministry. If he would live then, it would not be to the enjoyment of his own life, it was for the sake of other Christians and the ministry that God had called him to, “this is the fruit of my labour” (v22). We can learn from Paul that at times we may want to do one thing, but God has us do the other because it is more beneficial for others.

Though willing to be martyred for his faith, Paul believes that he will be set free, “I know that I shall abide and continue with you all” (v25). If this were to be the case, he would spend his days helping “your furtherance and joy or faith” (v25) and looked forward to the day that they would rejoice again in their next meeting (v27).

V27-30 Enemies and Suffering

Paul concludes remarks on his current condition with an admonition for the Philippians to live pure lives (v27) and not be afraid of their enemies (v28). They were to live their lives ‘becoming’ of the gospel (v27), which means to be suitable, proper, or appropriate. His hope was to visit Philippi to find them “striving together for the faith of the gospel” (v27). This is perhaps a glimpse into disunity in the church, likely caused by the persecution they were under, “in nothing terrified by your adversaries” (v28). Fear is a tactic that the enemy uses greatly, and it can become a spirit that keeps Christian’s subject in silence instead of preaching Christ in boldness. Paul says that the attacks (whatever they were), were “an evident token of perdition” (v28), meaning that they were proof of their persecutor’s lostness, and they were also evidence “of salvation” (v28) from the ones that were being persecuted. 

As much as Christians would prefer to live a “quiet and peaceable life” (1 Tim 2:2), it is not always possible, and we should expect this much, for “all that live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Tim 3:12). He says there that “it is given… to suffer for his sake” (v29), meaning that this is something that Christians should come to expect. For if there is no persecution at all, are we really advancing the kingdom of God and snatching souls out of the “power of darkness” (Col 1:13)? The Philippians were familiar with this kind of warfare, “having the same conflict” (v30) Paul was having in another place.

Chapter 2 Service to God

Chapter 2 gives us great insight into the humility that God desires. Paul addressed the issues of strife in the church at Philippi by giving them the example of Christ and two faithful men of God that would come and visit them.

V1-4 The Need for Humility

If the church at Philippi had an issue it was “strife” (v3) and a lack of unity. There isn’t much negative said about this church, unlike Corinth or Galatia, but these verses give us some insight.

In verse 1 we find a deepness to Christian love, which begins with Christ, “if there be therefore any consolation in Christ”. Also included is “comfort of love”, “fellowship of the Spirit”, and “bowels and mercies” (v1). Each of these items is appended with an “if”, which is a conjunction that connects them to the next verse. Since we know that these things are true, then they ought to be applied in Christian fellowship. Paul is asking the Philippians to consider their faith, and what they know about Christ and the Spirit of God and then apply that towards each other.

If Jesus weren’t a good enough reason for this church to unify, Paul asks it for himself, “fulfill ye my joy… be of one accord, one mind” (v2). What joy it truly brings to Christian leaders to see people in their ministries “having the same love” (v2) and caring humbly for one another! He is saying, please get along for my sake if nothing else!

The answer to disunity is found clearly in verses 3-4. First there is a removal of fighting, “let nothing be done through strife or vain glory” (v3). There is an appropriate way for Christians to handle conflict or work through issues together, but fighting and promoting ourselves is never the answer. Instead, “lowliness of mind” (v3) is the answer, which is humility. Considering the needs of others and not just thinking about ourselves is real humility, “let each esteem other better than themselves” (v3). We are told, “look not every man on his own things” (v4). This is the state of the natural man, to care for ‘nourish and cherish’ (Eph 5:29) their own desires, but with Christ as our example. Christians are called to also see to “the things of others” (v4). This is what God did for us, and this is what Christians do for each other. When we can get out of our own heads and consider that others have needs as well, we will end up finding the “bowels and mercies” from verse 1. What are you doing to unify your local church by considering the needs of others?

V5-11 The Example of Humility

To help the Philippians understand humility better, Paul reminds them of Jesus. He says, “let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus” (v5). If they would simply have the “mind of Christ” (1 Cor 2:16) then humility would flow naturally from them. What does humility look like?

It starts with a denial of self or position. Jesus was “in the form of God” (v5) and “equal with God” (v6), but chose to ‘put off’ His glory to and be “made in the likeness of men” (v7). This illustration is critical to the Christian faith! For within these verses, we find that Christ is God, not just a ‘creation of God’. He is “I AM” (John 8:58) and yet he “humbled himself” to be “found in fashion as a man” (v8). God put on flesh as clothes, in a human body, and walked among us (1 Tim 3:16). This alone sets Christianity apart from all cults and other religions. Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons cannot agree, neither can Muslims or any other religion that would see Jesus as only a ‘prophet’ or a ‘manifestation’. These verses clearly do not allow for that kind of interpretation. Jesus is Lord!

What does God do when He visits earth? He is “obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (v8). These passages do not mention the mighty works that Jesus did on earth or the great way in which he cared for people, they simply point to the cross! This is the most dramatic example of humility in all of history - that God would step out of heaven, become a man, and then willingly let His own creation crucify Him. Note that what happened on the cross was no accident, but part of His plant to reconcile “all things unto himself” (Col 1:20).

Because of what Jesus did, “God also hath highly exalted him” (v9). What we all really want is to be exalted. The Philippian church was struggling with promoting themselves in “vainglory” (v3), but here we learn that promotion comes from the Lord (Psa 75:9-10). God honors humility, obedience, and sacrifice. If we do those things in His name, He will honor us in due time.

There is no greater honor in the world than that of Jesus because nobody else could do what He did. He was “given him a name which is above every name” (v9). There is no other name on this planet higher than His name, and God hath chosen it as the means of salvation, “neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Salvation by grace through faith is calling out to Jesus to save you of your sins based on what He did on the cross (Rom 10:9-10). It is the only way!

Christ isn’t just exalted in salvation though; He is exalted that “every knee should bow” and “every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” (v11). Whether a person is a believer in Jesus Christ or not matters nothing, for all will be subject to Jesus Christ either in this life or in the next, “of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth” (v10). Even those in hell confess that Jesus is Lord! Don’t wait until then! Do it now to be saved from your sins! Then it will be with joy and a new song (Psa 40:3).

V12-18 The Practice of Humility

A few practical notes are made here to continue Paul’s point. He says that this church should put his teaching into practice right away and not wait for his arrival, “in my presence only” (v12). Such is the case for us as well. If God is revealing the example of Christ to you then there is no reason to delay your own humility and obedience to God! It should be worked out “with fear and trembling” (v12). Note that this verse is not teaching us to be saved by works, but to work out the issues aforementioned in the church. Humility will bring with it trepidation that is a healthy reluctance to exalt ourselves. This is evidence of salvation!

To truly exercise humility, we need God to work in us, “which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good please” (v13). We already know from Christ’s example that humility, obedience, and sacrifice please God, so we can expect that He will continue to ‘work’ in us to that end. If the Spirit of God is to make us like the person of Christ, then He must do the work in the inner man.

These issues of Christian character are what the lost world sees. We are reminded here that Christians are called “the sons of God” (v15) and that “a wise son maketh a glad father” (Prov 15:20). God wants us to behave in such a way that is evidence of His character and His working in us. He would have us be “blameless and harmless” (v15), “without murmurings and disputings” (v14), and to “shine as lights in the world” (v15). Such as would any father want for their sons!

Verse 16 gives us some critical insight. Christians have “the word of life” in the word of God, which is the only hope for humanity. There is only one way to be saved, and one Name to call upon for salvation. The world needs to hear about Jesus and the preaching of the gospel to be saved, for “how shall they hear without a preacher?” (Rom 10:14). This means that we need to work out our own issues and learn to love each other, so that we can be bright and bold witnesses to the world!

Paul looks forward to the “day of Christ” (v16) in which he would rejoice in those who were saved from his ministry (2 Cor 1:14). It would seem possible, however, to be disappointed on that day if our labour had been “in vain” (v16). The heart of a Christian pastor is to give themselves so wholly to the ministry and to the service of their people that they would rather “be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith” (v17) than to see their flock show up at the judgment seat of Christ without ever fulfilling God’s will in their life. This is not an issue of justification, it is an issue of glorification: how much Christ worked in them, and how much reward they would receive in eternity.

Paul is not resentful at this kind of work! He sees it as his duty to serve the Philippians, and all the churches that he planted, with all his might, considering it a “joy” (v17-18) and rejoicing. Truly it is the greatest joy when our people follow the example of Christ and live it out to serve others and reach the world!

V19-30 The People of Humility

The rest of this chapter is to inform the church about the arrival of two men that would visit them, Timothy and Epaphroditus. They both come in the spirit of humility which was just described and they will help this church upon their arrival.

Timothy (v19-24)

Timothy was with Paul at the writing of this epistle (v1). He was a faithful colabourer of Paul’s, considering him like his own son, “as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel” (v22). What a blessing it is to have men of God that can serve alongside us. Paul was literally unable to reach Philippi because of his bonds, so Timothy was able to fulfill a role that was impossible for him. If we can raise up men and women in the faith to serve in our stead, they will likely go further than we ever could!

Timothy’s task was to wait until Paul’s trial to conclude, upon which time he would be sent to Philippi (v23). Paul was hopeful to go with him if possible, “I trust… that I also myself shall come shortly” (v24). If not, Paul could at least hear a report back, that he would know the “state” (v19) of the church.

Timothy, as an example of humility, as he was willing to go when and where he was asked. This mission wasn’t about ‘him’, it was to help Paul, his leader, and to benefit the church in Philippi and the kingdom of God. He was sent knowing that he would “naturally care” (v20) for the church there. That is a high level of trust from Paul that Timothy would serve as a great example of selfless service.

Epaphroditus (v25-30)

Another high level leader in Paul’s company would lead the charge to Philippi, going ahead of Paul and Timothy, Epaphroditus. He is the man that delivered this letter to them, called here “your messenger” (v25). Epaphroditus had an incredible reputation, as is reported by Paul, considering him, “my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier” (v25). This description is of utmost respect and praise. He was also already known by the Philippian church, having been there before (v18).

Epaphroditus has previously been sick, “nigh unto death” (v3), and when the Philippian church heard of it, they were greatly concerned (v26). Their care for Epaphroditus made him even more fond of them, “he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick” (v26). This man was such a good ‘soldier’ (2 Tim 2:3) of Jesus Christ that he did not want to burden anyone else. He was so dear to Paul, that Paul says God spared Epaphroditus for Paul’s sake, “lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow” (v27). Wow! Paul loved this man! And he would have been easy to love, for he embodied the humility that Paul wanted the Philippians to see and understand. 

Epaphroditus was such a diligent and faithful minister that his sickness was “for the work of Christ… not regarding his life” (v30). He had so busying serving that he was worn out and was about to die. While fatigue is a normal thing, and sickness can result from our bodies being overworked, not many people have worked themselves to death serving Christ! He is therefore commended, “receive him… with all gladness; and hold such in reputation” (v29). This man did not commend himself; he let his work speak for himself and let “another man praise” him (Prov 27:2), as he should. What resulted from his humility, just like Christ, was to be exalted. For God exalts the humble (1 Pet 5:5)!

Chapter 3

This chapter doesn’t address anyone by name, but it does caution the Philippians to pay attention to who they are following. Paul warns them not to have “no confidence in the flesh” (v3) as it concerns credentials, works, or religion because salvation is through faith (v9), which caused him to forgo his own reputation to follow after Christ. He concludes this section with a call to “mark” (v17) faithful men of God and follow them instead of the externally minded.

V1-3 Proceed with Caution

Although Paul has to warn the Philippians, he is not overly concerned as he says it “is not grievous” (v1) to address this matter. He loved them and wanted them to be “safe” (v1), so he warned them as any good leader would. Some among them were “dogs” and “evil workers” (v2). Linking them together with the “concision” (v2) gives us a better idea of what he means by this. The concision are the Jews, which under the law “received the sign of the circumcision” (Rom 4:11), which would identify them with the God of Israel. Unfortunately though, circumcision alone was not enough to be right with God then and it certainly is not today.

Paul dealt with this subject in the books of Romans and Galatians, which he concludes, “neither circumcision availeth any thing, not uncircumcision, but faith” (Gal 5:6). He continues that “We are the circumcision which worship God in the spirit” (v3), meaning that just as God had a people in the Old Testament which he identified by physical circumcision, He now has a people (the church) which are identified by a spiritual circumcision. When a person is born again through the gospel, they are circumcised “without hands” (Col 2:11). It is spiritual, not physical. There are no physical acts that we can do which will make us right with God, we are only saved “by grace… through faith” (Eph 2:8-9). Since salvation has nothing to do with the flesh, we have “no confidence in the flesh” (v3) concerning our justification with God or our service to Him. It gives us favor – He is no respecter of persons (Eph 6:9).

V4-11 Paul’s Credentials

False teachers like to glory in their flesh, either from their lineage, appearance, gifts, etc. But we were just told not to trust in any of those things. If anyone were to trust in their credentials, it would be Paul, he says, “I more” (v4). Comparing simply on worldly terms, the apostle Paul was more qualified than nearly anyone else. He was raised up in a Hebrew home (v5), where he was properly circumcised (v5) and could prove his lineage “of the tribe of Benjamin” (v5). Being trained under the great teacher Gamaliel  (Acts 5:34, 22:3), he became a “Pharisee” (v5) with incredible zeal, taking his religion to the fullest end to persecute the church (v6, 1 Tim 1:13) and kept the law as much as possible (v6). Ironically, Paul is more prepared to be the apostle to the Jews than Peter (Gal 2:7), but God instead chose to send him to the Gentiles (Rom 11:13).

Although Paul had incredible credentials, he counted them as “loss for Christ” (v7), meaning that he left behind his entire life in Judaism. He “counted all things but loss” and “suffered the loss of all things” (v8) so that he could “win Christ” (v8). Paul had found the truth in Jesus Christ and the gospel and considered Him worthy of his entire life. He sought Christ just as the “pearl of great price” (Matt 13:46). Why did he let go of his entire life and his Pharisaical background? So that he could be found “not having mine own righteousness” (v9). He recognized the law’s inability to totally annihilate sin and to make man right with God. He chose instead to trust in “the righteousness which is of God by faith” (v9).

In suffering such a loss, Paul found himself closer with Jesus to “know him and the power of his resurrection” (v10). He was prepared to be “made conformable unto his death” (v10) and would gladly join Christ in “his sufferings” (v10). These sufferings had already proven true, as again, at the time of this writing, Paul is held captive awaiting trial for freedom or possibly death.

Paul lays out his credentials here to make a point. If anyone were to trust in the law for righteousness, that would be me! But that would be foolish because “if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain” (Gal 2:21). He chose not to live his life for the present, but instead trusted God for the one to come (v11).

Note that Paul DID in fact use his Pharisaical background in his ministry (Acts 13:14-16, 23:6-8, 26:4). He leveraged his lineage and abilities for the gospel when he could, but he no longer found his identity in them, and he no longer trusted in them for righteousness sake. In this way, we should be able to relate to Paul. We all have experiences that we can leverage to reach people for the gospel, but we must consider them “dung” (v8) in order for God to make them useful. Are you trusting in an identity outside of Christ? Do you think that God will give you special favor because of an ability that you have?

V12-16 Pressing Forward

Paul did not consider himself as someone who had ‘arrived’ in the faith. Having put away his past identity, he is now looking forward. He says that he will “follow after” and “apprehend” what the Lord had called him to (v12). To apprehend is to seize or take hold of. Although he was justified by faith (v9), he did not sit idly by. He chose instead to look forward, “this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before” (v13). This should be the goal of every Christian! Once we are saved, there is not a whole new life ahead of us to ‘apprehend’. This is worthy of all of our effort, as we “press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God” (v14). In Christ, we learn that our old life is dead, and our new life is “hid with Christ in God” (Col 3:3). It is now our calling to pursue God and His plans and purposes for our life.

To “press toward” (v14) means that it will take significant effort. What God has called us to will not happen by accident. It must be leaned into, or ‘followed after’. We ought to be leaning into our life in Christ, and whatever God has taught us, we are now stewards of to “walk by the same rule” (v16).

V17-21 Careful Who You Follow

Be careful who you follow! Paul mentioned Timothy and Epaphroditus by name to Philippi, as examples of men to follow, “mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample” (v17). If we can find godly men like Paul and these others, we ought to imitate their lives and learn from them as examples to us. There are others, whoever, that are “enemies of the cross of Christ” (v18), whom we ought to avoid! It would seem there are more poor examples of Christians than there are good ones. Paul had some of these in mind as he wrote, “whose end is destruction” (v19). There are a few identifying markers here of men to avoid:

“whose God is their belly” (v19)

These are people who only focus on what their next fleshly needs are. Their own stomach can sway them on how they are feeling.

“whose glory is in their shame” (v19)

These have a “seared conscience” (1 Tim 4:2) and glory in things that would cause a normal person to shame. When the conscience is violated over-and-over again, eventually it is no longer bothered by the worst kinds of sins.

“who mind earthly things” (v19)

These have an overall worldly outlook, “God is not in all his thoughts” (Psa 10:4). To focus on this world is death and enmity with God, so those that forsake a biblical worldview ought to be avoided.

Christians instead have a “conversation in heaven” (v20) and “we look for the Saviour” (v20) and His return. In that glorious day in which we see Christ, our body will finally be redeemed, “that I may be fashioned like unto his glorious body” (v21). The current body that we live in is considered “vile” (v21), as it is contaminated with sin (Rom 7:18). Upon rapture of death, all Christians will be given a new “glorious body” (v21) without a sinful nature whereby we can serve the Lord (1 Cor 15:52-54).

Chapter 4

This chapter concludes the book with Paul expressing his love for the church (v1), and giving practical instructions before finally concluding with discussion of an offering that he received from them. Whether Paul was abased or abounded, he was content in all things, but also grateful for how this church had cared for him in supporting the ministry.

V1-4 Unity and Colabourers

That Paul loved this church is most evident! He expresses it clearly in verse 1, calling them, “my joy and crown”. Because he loved them so much it must have pained him to see them divided, as was a subtle purpose for his writing. Here we see the culprits, “Euodias” and “Syntyche” (v2) were not getting along. Perhaps they were the reason for the “strife” (2:3) mentioned earlier? Though not many people are mentioned by name in this church, we get the sense that Paul was singling them out here so that they would fall in line, “be of the same mind in the Lord” (v2). Christians are to function according to the “mind of Christ”(1 Cor 2:16) in their own lives, and when we come together, all working from the same mind, it should produce unity. If there is strife, it is because our minds are divided.

There were others in the church at Philippi that were commended, some without name, “those women” (v3) and “true yokefellow” (v3) but for some reason Paul mentions “Clement” by name as one of his “fellowlabourers” (v3). These worked with Paul, labouring “in the gospel” (v3). There is no better way to spend one’s energy or no better thing that can be said of us than that we are labouring together with bold and powerful men of God in the service of the same gospel and to the same Lord! If Paul visited your church would he consider you as a worker in the cause of Christ, getting the gospel to the world? Or are you on the sidelines watching it happen?

V5-9 Practical Advice

Rejoice

In Paul’s typical fashion he addresses some more practical considerations towards the end of his letter. He begins with rejoicing, and tells the church to “rejoice in the Lord alway” (v4). Although Philippi had adversaries (1:28), and Paul himself was a prisoner (1:14-16), there was still reason to rejoice! No matter our circumstances we can always rejoice “in the Lord” (v4), for He is always with us working all things together for good (Rom 8:28) and He will comfort us in all things (John 15:26, 2 Cor 7:6).

Moderate

Restraint is a Christian virtue, “let your moderation be known unto all men” (v5). In comparison with the Lost world, Christians have the Holy Spirt who is able to defeat our carnal fleshly desires and restrain us with “temperance” (Gal 5:23). This should be evident to the people around us, for we are not like them, controlled merely by our feelings and vices. We are crucified (Gal 2:2)! Therefore let us be witnesses even in our use of this world, “as not abusing it” (1 Cor 7:31). We can enjoy the work of our hand, but we (Ecc 3:13), but we live our lives in anticipation of the next, awaiting the Lord’s return, “the Lord is at hand” (v5).

Pray

The thought life of a Christian is of utmost importance, as we will see next, but first it is greatly connected to our prayer life. We are told, “be careful for nothing” (v6), which is to be full of care. The antidote to anxiety is not more thought, it is more prayer! Christian, if we continue to mull things over in our mind, it is likely a symptom of anxiety, which we are told not to have!

Christians are able to pray about “every thing” (v6), without needing to feel like we are ‘bothering God’. He has told us to “come boldly unto the throne of grace” (Heb 4:16), therefore what hinders us from presenting our “requests” and “thanksgiving” (v6) to the Lord? If we will instead make our issues “known unto God” (v6) then it will yield a supernatural result! No more anxiety. For when we pray, “the peace of God” will overwhelm our “hearts and minds” (v7) in a supernatural way. As we cast our care upon Him (1 Pet 5:7), He will give us peace that is beyond our circumstances, a peace that “passeth all understanding” (v7). Friend, how is your thought life? Is it captive to your cares? Or has it been made known to the Lord?

Think

In verses 8-9 the Christian is challenged to consider their thought life. We are given a list of things whereby to filter our musings and meditations, “think on these things” (v8). Everyone has a natural internal dialogue. Here we find that the Christian is accountable not just for their actions, but for the inner workings of the mind. Beginning the list of filters for Christian thought is “whatsoever things are true” (v8). Before we even get into the remainder of these qualifying factors, we can eliminate a good portion of negative thinking right here. If what we are thinking about is untrue, it must be cast down as an untrue imagination (2 Cor 10:5). That could be as simple as believing a lie about your spouse, God, or yourself. Our minds must always be cleansed and sanctified with the truth (John 17:17, Eph 5:25)! As the list progresses it gives further clarity on things that should occupy our minds. If it isn’t, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, or of any virtue or praise (v8-9) then it must be cast out of our minds, no matter how attached you are to it.

Note that we can further aid our meditations by not allowing these kinds of things into our minds so as to stop the battle before it begins. We should filter all of our content based upon this list: reading, entertainment, relationships, etc. What are we putting INTO our minds?

Follow

If we need help discerning how to pray or how to think, we can always look to Paul as an example. Have you met him? You can find his life in the scriptures, from Acts 9 through the book Philemon. He says, what you have seen from his life, “do” (v9). Perhaps Paul’s life is less obvious to you, in which case God has placed men and women of God in our lives to follow after. What have you “learned and received” from them? What have you “seen” (v9) in them? If you don’t know a mature Christian, you ought to find one and follow them. Listen to them teach the bible (a sign of maturity, Heb 5:14), watch them handle their kids and spouse, and attempt to repeat the things that you experience with them. This is ultimately the work of discipleship, which works best one-on-one (2 Tim 2:2).

V10-14 Contentment

We get great insight into Paul’s life and relationship with the Philippian church here. They had sent him a gift (v14, 17) to display their love for Paul. He says, “your care of me hath flourished again” (v10). This church was forward to help him, and while he is grateful for the gift, the attempted to downplay his needs with the famous line, “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (v11). If Paul had to learn it, the contentment is a learned character quality or skill. It is something that we can grow in by experience. Paul learned it by experiencing both sides of the spectrum, from abounding with excess (v12) and being abased with nothing (v12). Whether “full” or “hungry” (v12) he was able to “do all things through Christ”(v13). This famous verse is frequently used by athletes to accomplish their goals, but in reality it is more about contentment than it is God helping us to achieve. All Christians would do well to learn this great skill because we cannot guarantee tomorrow, and we are told to rejoice (v4) no matter the circumstances it may bring (Matt 6:34).

V15-19 Sacrificial Giving

Paul now reflects on a visit that he had in Macedonia, the region in which Philippi is. This must have been on his second missionary, which he calls “the beginning of the gospel” (v15). He says no other churches were helping him by “giving and receiving” (v15) except the Philippian church. They were zealous to help him and the cause of Christ! While Paul spent time in Thessalonica, a nearby city, they made sure to support him “once and again” (v16). There were times when Paul did not accept people’s gifts, like when at the church in Corinth (1 Cor 9:12), but at other times God provided for his “necessity” (v16) through the giving of others.

Ministers should never feel guilty for God’s provision through others, as it is not about them, it is more about the giver who will have fruit ‘abound to their account’ (v17)! When we allow people to give and support the ministry, we do not “desire a gift” (v17), but want others to experience the words of Jesus, “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

Not only does the individual benefit in giving, but so does the Lord. As Paul received this offering he was “full” (v18) having no more need, but even more emphasis is placed on the spiritual realities of a “cheerful giver” (2 Cor 9:7). God sees our giving as “an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God” (v18). Giving, and especially sacrificial giving, produces an attractive aroma to God whereby we are able to please Him.

Though many people have manipulated the church over the years with the ‘prosperity gospel’, we cannot afford fear asking Christians to give because of the realities it produces! Giving can be a genuine act of worship, no matter the amount (Luke 21:1-4). When we give in faith and dependence upon God, and give towards His cause with a pure heart, He will, “supply all your need” (v19). Giving is a thing that at times doesn’t make sense! But God is able to ensure that each person on both sides of giving has their needs met “from his riches in glory” (v19). Could this just be a spiritual reward in heaven? Sure. But could it also be your daily “supply” (v19)? Absolutely.

V20-23 Conclusion

Paul concludes this letter abruptly, with glory to God (v20) and greetings to all the saints in Philippi (v21). While signing off on this letter he gives greetings from the “saints… of Caesar’s household” (v22), which means that while in Rome, the gospel had penetrated all the way into the home of the most powerful man of the known world! Perhaps Caesar was not born again himself, but there were now “saints” (v22) in the most unlikely of places! God can use all of our circumstances and work them together for good, which is a fitting end to this letter. Knowing that, causes us to “rejoice in the Lord alway” (v4).