Philippians 4 - Printer Friendly

What does Philippians 4 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

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.

Philippians 3:12—4:1 explains the proper attitude Christians ought to have on the process of ''sanctification.'' This is the gradual, lifelong path of becoming more and more like Jesus. Our place in eternity is secure from the moment we trust in Christ, but it takes time to see our actions and attitudes change to be like His. Paul notes that he is not perfect, but encourages Christians to mimic his singular focus on pursuing Jesus. Paul also weeps for those who reject the gospel, a choice that will result in their destruction.

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.

Philippians 4:10–20 describes how Christians can overcome worry and worldly desires, regardless of their circumstances. By making a purposeful decision to be content, a believer can trust God to provide our true needs, and not be consumed with materialism or anxiety. Paul has learned this skill through his many trials and ministry experiences. Paul also thanks the Philippians for their generosity, and expresses his confidence that God will bless them for it.

Philippians 4:21–23 concludes Paul's letter to the church at Philippi. As with many of his other writings, Paul emphasizes brotherhood and the grace of God. In several of his epistles, Paul closes out his remarks with an appeal to the grace of God, through Jesus Christ. As a man drastically transformed by that grace, Paul had good reasons to remind others of it often.

Chapter Summary:

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.

Chapter Context:

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 5/3/2024 5:12:16 AM