Philippians 4:20 - Printer Friendly

ESV: To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

NIV: To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

NASB: Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

CSB: Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

NLT: Now all glory to God our Father forever and ever! Amen.

KJV: Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

NKJV: Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Paul concludes the main text of his letter with a brief doxology, or a formulated expression of praise. God is both Lord and Father to Christians. Jesus had taught them to pray to God as their Father in heaven (Matthew 6:9). Glory is a theme throughout the letter, appearing seven times in total (Philippians 1:11, 26; 2:11; 3:3, 19; 4:19, 20).

This verse also closely parallels Philippians 2:11, which looked forward to the day when, "every tongue [will] confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Interestingly, a similar ending is found in the book of Hebrews, which also references Christ's glory (Hebrews 13:21). Though we are not absolutely sure that the book of Hebrews was written by Paul, it certainly reflects elements of his style, particularly in this conclusion. Paul also uses similar phrases in Galatians 1:5, 1 Timothy 1:17, and 2 Timothy 4:18.

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.

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 5/5/2024 12:30:21 PM