July 21, 2014 Philippians Chapter 4

Sorry about the lapse in postings!  I had internet issues. :(

Philippians Chapter 4

Originally posted Wednesday September 3, 2008

Philippians Chapter 4:2-9 Exhortations

This is the only time in this letter that Paul addresses an internal problem not linked to outside influence. There is some kind of disagreement between the two women, Euodia and Syntyche. They are not just members of the church; they have been co-workers with Paul, Clement and others "in the work of the Gospel whose names are in the "Book of Life (Dan. 12:1; PS. 69:28)." This can be taken to mean they were evangelists involved in a related ministry. The situation is serious enough to require Paul's intervention in seeking a resolution. Without taking sides or scolding, he urges both of them to reach an agreement compatible with Christian love and respect, as two persons in Christ (2:5). The necessity of finding a resolution is emphasized by Paul's direct request to his "loyal yokefellow" to help the two women come to an agreement "in the Lord." It is interesting that Paul does not name this trusted "yokefellow" since doing so would have given the man special authority to carry out Paul's wishes. It is possible that this person is the one who will be carrying the letter to Philippi. That would be Epaphroditus who has been working with Paul and is now returning home after a long illness (2:25-30). As Paul's messenger he would read the letter to the members and they would understand that he carries Paul's authority.

As part of being of one mind Paul exhorts the members to think about and continue doing those things they have learned from and seen in him. He urges them to live and act in ways which are true, honorable, pure, pleasing, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise for in all of these they will find the peace of God.

Philippians Chapter 4:10-20 The Philippians Gift

It is likely this portion of the letter was written when Paul was under house arrest in Rome, awaiting the Emperor's decision in Paul's appeal to him (Acts 25:6-12). While there the Philippians had been helpful in assisting him, having sent Epaphroditus as well as material support. Although he has learned to survive and even thrive in all kinds of circumstances being strengthened in all things by Christ, he is gracious in his thankfulness for their kindness. Such care is characteristic of Christians as they share each others sufferings as well as their joys (Rom. 12:15).

Not only have their shared in Paul's current distress, they were instrumental as partners by supporting his early missionary efforts with them and in other parts of Macedonia. When he left Macedonia to begin his work in Corinth and other parts of Achaia they were the only Macedonia church community that provided such support. Again, he had not sought such support. Their relationship had been one of giving and receiving and he considers himself having been "paid in full" with the gifts he had received from them while in Rome which he describes as "a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God and for which God will certainly reward them in Christ Jesus.

Philippians Chapter 4:21-23 Final Greetings and Benediction

As part of Paul's greetings he includes greetings from those who are with him, referring to members of the church in Rome who have visited with him. Of course the two communities are not known to each other, but Paul takes the opportunity to point out the larger unity that exists among all Christians, no matter where they live. His is truly a connectional understanding of the Church. He especially refers to those saints (believers) who are of the Emperor's household. Paul takes every chance that comes his way to share his message of Christ. That there are believers among the Emperor's slaves and probably family is a testimony to Paul's dedication to the cause in all circumstances, including confinement. His was a good prototype for jail ministry.

This inclusion also may tell us something about the circumstances of his case. Paul was under house arrest, similar to today's use of a GPS device to keep track of a person's location. He had a guard but people were free to come and go. Many scholars conclude the case was dismissed and that Paul was released near 63 CE after which he continued his missionary work, perhaps as far as Spain. It was only after returning to Rome where circumstances had changed as a result of the great fire of 64 CE in Rome that he was re-arrested and eventually executed by Nero's order.