What does Philippians chapter 4 mean?
Chapter 4 speaks of Christ's strength in times of suffering. This includes prayers and encouragement (Philippians 4:1–9) and a focus on God's provision (Philippians 4:10–20), followed by a short conclusion (Philippians 4:21–23).Verse 1 actually concludes Paul's previous passage, from the end of chapter 3, with an encouragement to "stand firm" in the Lord.
In verses 2–3, he mentions Euodia and Syntyche, two women in the Philippian church involved in some kind of disagreement. He urges them to "agree in the Lord." Paul then refers to a person called the "true companion," asking him to help the women, Clement, and the rest of his workers (Philippians 4:3).
Paul then transitions to a focus on rejoicing in the Lord (Philippians 4:4). Christians are not to be anxious about anything, but instead to bring prayers of all kinds to the Lord (Philippians 4:6). This does not mean a total lack of thought. Rather, it means a lack of fear or anxiety. The peace of God protects (Philippians 4:7). Paul also encourages his readers to focus on things that are good (Philippians 4:8). This includes all they had learned and received and heard and seen in Paul (Philippians 4:9). The Philippian Christians are instructed to think about them, and to apply them, knowing God's peace would be with them (Philippians 4:9).
The second part of this passage focuses on God's provision (Philippians 4:10–20). Paul rejoices that the Philippian believers were now helping him again financially (Philippians 4:10). He did not write this because he was greedy, or desperate. Instead, he had learned how to be content in all situations (Philippians 4:11). He knew how to be content either in abundance or in need (Philippians 4:12), claiming he could do all things through Christ who strengthens him (Philippians 4:13).
Paul refers to their kindness in helping him during his time of trouble (Philippians 4:14). The church in Philippi was the first to help him financially, not once, but on multiple occasions (Philippians 4:15–17). Paul says he is well supplied as a result of the gifts Epaphroditus had brought to him from the Philippians. He considers them as a "fragrant offering" to the Lord (Philippians 4:18).
The final section of this chapter provides a brief conclusion (Philippians 4:21–23). Paul tells his readers to greet "every saint in Christ Jesus" and that the believers with him send their greetings (Philippians 4:21). This included "especially those of Caesar's household" (Philippians 4:22), referring to some who served the emperor who had become believers in Christ. The final verse resembles many of Paul's other letters, stating, "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit." Paul starts and ends his letter with a focus on grace from Jesus, the one who offers everything necessary to both know and follow the Lord.