Philippians 4:2 - Printer Friendly

ESV: I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord.

NIV: I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.

NASB: I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord.

CSB: I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to agree in the Lord.

NLT: Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement.

KJV: I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord.

NKJV: I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.

Paul begins this passage with two particular women within the church, who apparently had some kind of disagreement: Euodia and Syntyche. Paul rarely named names when referring to disagreements in the churches. To mention these two women so specifically may have indicated they were well known in the congregation. It might also mean that their dispute was very public, particularly bitter, or even both.

However, their dispute did not mean these women were ungodly. In verse 3, we find they had worked together with Paul, Clement, and other godly leaders. Paul also said their names were in the "book of life," noting his confidence that they were believers. Even Christians sometimes have disputes which need to be addressed. Paul himself experienced a dispute with Barnabas which led to them splitting into two separate missionary teams (Acts 15:36–41). Paul knew of this quarrel in Philippi and the need for these two women to come together to work out their differences. An unnamed church leader will later be asked to help them in this process.

Philippians 4:2–9 is Paul's appeal to the Philippian Christians regarding how they handle disagreements within the church. Paul is particularly concerned with an argument between two women, Euodia and Syntyche. Paul's advice is to focus on our ability to rejoice in our fellowship with Christ. The result of that emphasis ought to be an attitude of ''reasonableness,'' seen by all people. With a proper focus on positive things, we can experience peace through the power of God.

Paul specifically asks two Christian women, Euodia and Syntyche, to settle their personal dispute. Other Christians are encouraged to act as reasonable, Christ-filled people. Paul notes that his experiences have taught him to be content with whatever material blessings he has. This reliance on the power of Christ not only allows believers to be content, it produces peace in our relationships to other Christians. This also requires a deliberate choice to set our attention on positive things. Paul extends sincere thanks to the Philippians for their generous support.

After putting suffering and hardship into perspective in the previous three chapters, Paul now gives specific thanks to the Philippians for their support and generosity. Prior passages in this letter have explained concepts like humility and hope, as well as a focus on Christ. Positive attitudes, and beneficial thinking, are especially important. In this concluding section, Paul calls on the Philippians to act with ''reasonableness,'' especially as they handle disagreements within the church. Paul is confident that God will bless these faithful Christians for their generous support.

Philippians is Paul's discussion of living the Christian life. In this letter to the church of Philippi, Paul highlights themes such as joy and glory. He also puts great emphasis on how a Christian's thinking—their attitude—affects the way they live out their faith. Paul is very thankful for the support of the Philippian church, but is also concerned about the influence of various false teachers. This letter is less theological than most of his other writings, and more practical.

Accessed 11/21/2024 1:06:41 PM