Phil. 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the LORD. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.
As is often the case, the King James wording is a bit confusing. I like the CJB translation for this verse: “In conclusion, my brothers: rejoice in union with the LORD. It is no trouble for me to repeat what I have written you before, and for you it will be a safeguard….”
Again, the heart of a loving parent comes through as Paul writes to his spiritual children. Parents know the importance of repetition. The LORD taught this principle from the beginning.
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.”
I would say that is a pretty important statement on the value of repetition from the Spirit of God through His servant Moses.
Phil. 3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.
Beware is a statement to “be aware” or be watchful. In the scripture the word dog is often used as a derogatory term. Paul is equating dogs with evil workers or teachers (from the Greek) such as those that teach that circumcision of the flesh is necessary for salvation. That is a false teaching.
Phil. 3:3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.
Circumcision is a cutting away of the flesh. Circumcision was established as a sign of covenant between God and the Jewish people, the descendants of Abraham. The Jewish people had rejected God even though they faithfully practiced circumcision. That was totally out of the context for which it was established.
Paul is making it clear that true circumcision is a matter of the spirit, a reflection of a heart of love and obedience to God and faith in Christ Jesus His Son. Moses introduced this truth in his last teaching to the people of Israel.
Deuteronomy 10:16 "Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked.”
Physical circumcision was supposed to be an outward sign of an inward commitment to the LORD—just as baptism is today. A physical show of obedience without a sincere heart of faith and commitment behind it is worthless. Our works are worthless unless backed by faith. Paul was very clear on this point in his letter to the Romans.
Romans 2:28-29 “For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.”
Phil. 3:4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more:
Phil. 3:5 Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee;
Phil. 3:6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.
According to Jewish teaching, Paul had more reason than most to boast of works in the flesh.
He was circumcised the eighth day (as instructed in scripture - Leviticus 12:2-3 “Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a woman have conceived seed, and born a man child: then she shall be unclean seven days; according to the days of the separation for her infirmity shall she be unclean. And in the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised.”).
He was a true Hebrew of the tribe of Benjamin.
He was a Pharisee, those known as experts in the laws of God and who prided themselves in keeping it.
He was zealous in persecuting the church (those who were deemed by the spiritual leaders of Israel to be blasphemers of God).
Again, one who took pride in keeping the letter of the law.
Phil. 3:7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.
Once Paul met Jesus, he realized how worthless those works of the flesh were. He had taken great pride in his works and position of status before men, and now counted them as a total loss in light of the gospel and the righteousness imputed to him by Christ Jesus.
Phil. 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my LORD: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,
Paul is basically saying that even though he had lost everything important according to the opinion of most people, he had gained everything that is valuable and most important through faith in Christ Jesus as his LORD. This is a vivid picture of how the Christian should think in this corrupt world of ours today. God does not value what the world values. God does not approve what the world approves. God does not think and/or act according to the thinking of this world. We should stand out as unique and different in this world. This immediately led me to the thoughts Paul expressed in 2Corinthians.
2Corinthians 6:14-17 “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the LORD, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you….”
Paul realized that what the world honors and cherishes is but dung—worthless.
Phil. 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
Righteousness is a reference to holiness and purity. The only way man can earn righteousness for himself is through the keeping of the law. Scripture tells us that no one can keep the law. If you fail in keeping even one point of the law, you have failed.
Galatians 2:16 “… for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.”
Galatians 3:10 “For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.”
James 2:10 “For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.”
The Psalmist gives a good assessment of the human condition and why man can’t keep the law.
Psalm 14:2-3 “The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God. They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one.”
Paul is not depending on his own works for righteousness. He is depending upon having the righteousness of Christ imputed to him by God through faith. He stated this more clearly in is letter to the Corinthians.
2Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
Phil. 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
Phil. 3:11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.
Paul wants to know Christ—absolutely, completely, with understanding. Paul wants experiential knowledge regarding:
The power of His resurrection – Paul wants to experience resurrection of his own body and the immortality that goes with it. Not only that, Paul wants to live this life in the power of the Holy Spirit, the same power revealed through the resurrection of Jesus.
The fellowship of His sufferings – Paul counts it a privilege to suffer for his faith just as Christ suffered for His. He wants to be as closely connected to the LORD as possible. The Greek for conformable is reference to being like/similar. Paul wants his life experience to parallel that of his LORD’s in regard to suffering for righteous living.
The wording of verse 11 is difficult in that it seems to indicate that Paul wasn’t sure about his resurrection. We know that is not true because of the message of his other epistles; his letter to the Corinthians is very clear.
1Corinthians 15:12-22 “Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.”
This verse could also be misconstrued as saying that Paul felt he had to earn his resurrection. We also know that is not true since Paul is very clear in teaching that salvation is by faith, and it is our salvation that guarantees our resurrection to life. Again, the clearest statement of this truth is found in his letter to the Ephesians.
Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
I think that taken in context with verse 10, Paul is declaring that anything and everything he might experience in his life as God’s servant will be worth the reward at the end—the resurrection to immortality and life in the presence of God forever.
Phil. 3:12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
Paul is well aware of his imperfections and areas of weakness. He knows that there is much refining yet needed in his life. He knows that he still has room for spiritual growth. I like the wording of the NLT: “I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection! But I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ Jesus saved me for and wants me to be.”
I think it is important to note that this amazing man of God knew that he had not arrived spiritually, so to speak. He was still growing in grace and knowledge of the LORD. He was still growing and being sanctified through his sufferings.
Phil. 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
Phil. 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Paul knows he still has room for spiritual growth, but he is not being weighted down or held back with memories and regrets of his past. He is focused on the future. His past has been covered by the precious blood of Jesus, and he doesn’t intend to waste his time worrying about what he cannot change. He is excited about his new life in Christ and being the best servant he can be before the LORD. He knows that there are eternal rewards to be earned. He has a goal and intends to win the prize for reaching that goal. Most of the translations connect the “high calling” to heaven. I tend to think that Paul is equating it to becoming more like Jesus. What has God called us to do?
To glorify him.
Isaiah 43:7 “Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.”
2Thessalonians 2:14 “Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our LORD Jesus Christ.”
To be saints—pure, blameless and holy.
Romans 1:7 “To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints….”
1Corinthians 1:2 “Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints….”
1Thessalonians 4:7 “For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.”
To eternal life.
1Timothy 6:12 “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called….”
Wonderful to know—heaven is part of the eternal prize.
Phil. 3:15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.
Again, the KJV can be confusing since in verse 12 Paul states that he isn’t perfect, but in this verse he begins with referencing “us” who are “perfect.” There is a difference in the Greek words used for perfect in each verse. In this verse the reference is to spiritual maturity. Those who are spiritually mature should find themselves of like mind with Paul regarding his message to them. If they aren’t in agreement with Paul, he is convinced that God will reveal their error if they are seeking the truth without prejudice (a sign of spiritual maturity). Paul has no doubt that he is sharing the truth as revealed to Him by God through the Holy Spirit. It is the same confidence expressed by Jesus as declared in the book of John.
John 7:16-17 “Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.”
Phil. 3:16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.
Paul is basically saying that although we haven’t reached the goal, we should be obedient to the truth that we do know. We may have much to learn, but we are responsible and expected to live according to the truth we do know. The truth of God’s word is unchanging and should unify the body of believers.
Phil. 3:17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
I like the wording of the NLT for this verse: “Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example.”
Again, this is a statement that all mature believers should be able to make. Like Paul, we are to live according to the example of Christ. If we do so, we can confidently encourage others to walk according to our example. Paul emphasized this truth in his letters to the Ephesians and to Timothy; Peter also affirmed this truth.
Ephesians 5:1-2 “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.”
1Timothy 4:12 “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
1Peter 2:21-23 “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously….”
Phil. 3:18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:
Phil. 3:19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)
Paul has a tender heart for the lost. He is brought to tears at the thought of those who have rejected Christ and are positioned as His enemies. The Greek for the word weeping is a reference to sobbing/wailing aloud. He knows that their eternal future is damnation—not eternal life. These unbelievers live their lives according to the wisdom and morals of the world. They are controlled by their physical appetites and take pride in their shameful (disgraceful, dishonest) lifestyles. Does this sound like a commentary on our culture today or what!
Thought—Am I weeping with concern over the immorality that is rampant in my nation? In the world? Am I brought to tears because people are headed to hell? Honestly, I would have to answer more often than not, “No.” The tears come more quickly for those in my own family and circle of friends/acquaintances. I am burdened to pray for the lost, but not often at the point of tears. “Father, I pray that You give me Your heart for the lost as exampled by Paul.”
Phil. 3:20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the LORD Jesus Christ:
Phil. 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
“conversation” = community, citizenship
As new creations in Christ, the believer has changed his citizenship; he is no longer identified with the world, Satan’s domain; he is now a citizen of heaven, Christ’s domain. We believers are looking forward to the time that the LORD Jesus will come down from heaven to complete our salvation. At that time He will change our vile, debased, corruptible bodies into gloriously exalted incorruptible bodies—just like His. He has all power in heaven and in earth, and the time is coming when He will “subdue all things unto himself.” Satan and sin will be destroyed. I think it is worth repeating Paul’s wonderful detailing of this event in his letter to the Corinthians.
1Corinthians 15:51-55 “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave,
where is thy victory?”
JFB made an interesting connection to the Greek regarding our “vile body.”
“Who shall transfigure the body of our humiliation (namely, in which our humiliation has place….”
I think that is a wonderful explanation of how we should feel about our sin. The fact that we rebelled from Almighty God and chose sin over obedience is, or should be, a humiliating truth. It should bring us to our knees in repentance and motivate us to “press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (v14 above)
Phil. 4:1 Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the LORD, my dearly beloved.
Paul is stating that the contents of this letter should serve as motivation to “keep on keeping on” in the work of the LORD. He loves this body of believers not only as brothers and sisters in Christ, but with a special human connection of the heart. Their relationship brings him great joy and delight and represents part of his heavenly reward.
Phil. 4:2 I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the LORD.
Evidently two women in the Philippian church were having public disagreement on some issue, and Paul is encouraging them to establish unity with one another. The Greek for mind states to “exercise the mind…set the affection on.” He is encouraging them to use their energy to focus on their love for the LORD and lay aside any differences they might have that would negatively impact the effectiveness of their testimony and, in turn, the testimony of the church.
Phil. 4:3 And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.
The wording for this verse is interesting. Paul is definitely addressing a co-laborer in the ministry. Since the word is singular, I think the Greek for yokefellow gives reason to believe it is a specific person in the church named Syzygus. This would make more sense in reference to one in a letter to many. This yokefellow is encouraged to be of assistance specifically to the women who have labored with Paul in ministry (possibly Euodias and Syntyche). They had also assisted Clement and others who had ministered with Paul. It’s interesting that Paul adds that all these co-laborers have their names listed in the book of life; he was confident of their salvation. (See Topical Study, The Book of Life.) JFB had an interesting comment on this phrase: “Anciently, free cities had a roll book containing the names of all those having the right of citizenship.” The Book of Life is a registry of all who are citizens of heaven.
Phil. 4:4 Rejoice in the LORD alway: and again I say, Rejoice.
This verse always makes me think of a chorus we sang as kids. Paul is encouraging the believers at Philippi to rejoice in the LORD at all times—good and bad. No matter what trial the Christian may suffer, he/she can be confident that his/her future is secure with the LORD and will be filled with joy beyond our imagination.
1Corinthians 2:9 “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”
This seems to be the theme verse for this little book; the words joy or rejoice appear 16 times in these four chapters.
Phil. 4:5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The LORD is at hand.
“moderation” = appropriate, i.e. (by implication) mild:—gentle, moderation, patient. Webster’s definition states “calmness of mind.”
The believer should be able to demonstrate gentleness and patience in dealing with the frustrations in life. Our calmness in times of trouble should stand out when compared with that of unbelievers. I am reminded of an event in the past year when a man murdered several Amish children. The response of the Amish community was very calm and forgiving. They were very confident that God allowed this for a reason. I found the following quote on the internet at http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/10/04/national/main2059816.shtml:
“As they struggle with the slayings of five of their children in a one-room schoolhouse, the Amish in this Lancaster County village are turning the other cheek, urging forgiveness of the killer and quietly accepting what comes their way as God's will. They know their children are going to heaven. They know their children are innocent ... and they know that they will join them in death," said Gertrude Huntington, a Michigan researcher and expert on children in Amish society.”
That’s the attitude that all Christians should exhibit in times of trouble.
One of the strongest motivations for right living with a right attitude—“The LORD is at hand.” From the very beginning of the church, believers have been looking for the LORD to return. Though it may seem like forever in our way of thinking, it’s just been a couple of days in God’s way of thinking.
Psalm 90:4 “For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night.”
2Peter 3:8 “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the LORD as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.”
Any hardship we may have to endure on this earth is hardly worth mentioning when compared to the joy that will be ours for eternity.
2Corinthians 4:17 “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory….”
Phil. 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
“careful” = anxious; Webster = exposing to concern, anxiety or trouble; painful
Paul is saying, “Don’t worry.” Worry is the opposite of the calmness referenced in the preceding verse. Personal example—I have had a propensity to worry unduly as a mom at times. As I have grown spiritually, I’ve been able to make the distinction between a healthy concern and worry or undue concern. I have learned that I need to do my best to make wise choices and intercede for my kids in prayer. I can then trust God to work according to His will knowing that He loves my children better than I possibly can. The character of God the Father, my Father, allows me to be thankful in advance; He is faithful, loving, merciful, and forgiving. I can do nothing better than place my kids in the care of the Father. Truth be told, however, it is much easier said than done. It’s an every day act of surrender for me.
Phil. 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
This type of peace is that pictured by the Amish as stated in the reference above. It’s a peace that the world cannot understand. They can’t see past the circumstances to understand that God is working in the lives of believers to refine them and purify them and better prepare them for eternity. They don’t understand that He is ever trying to draw sinners to their knees in repentance and faith. (See Topical Study, “Why Does God Allow…?”)
The source of the believer’s peace of heart and mind (thoughts, feelings and perceptions) is Christ Jesus. Only because of the provision of Christ through the Holy Spirit can we exhibit such peace before the world.
John 14:16-17 “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.”
Phil. 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
In this verse Paul tells the believers how to be filled with the peace of God—by thinking and focusing on good things, spiritual things, things of God. I like David Guzik’s quote referencing this verse: “This, Paul would say, is the fruit and the food of the mind that is guarded by the peace of God; the adage ‘garbage in, garbage out’ is applicable here.” I would change that to say “spiritual truth in, spiritual fruit out.”
Whatsoever things are true – There are many scriptures that equate the truth with God; I have listed just a few.
Deuteronomy 32:4 “He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.”
Psalm 31:5 “Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.”
John 17:17 “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”
Revelation 19:11 “And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.”
If we are meditating on things that are true, we are meditating on things that are connected to God. I usually think of truth as “conforming to fact” (i.e. Webster), but the Greek added more—“as not concealing.” In other words there is no deception involved. It’s a reminder to avoid hypocrisy. It’s a reminder that any “wisdom of man” that contradicts God’s Word is false.
Whatsoever things are honest – The Greek for honest references “venerable,” which Webster defines as being worthy of honor and respect, and “grave,” which Webster defines as “of importance, weighty, influential and serious.” I was surprised in doing a word search for “honest or honesty” to find that there were only 8 uses of this word in scripture, and they were all in the New Testament. Most uses are of the word “kalos,” which references “beautiful, good, valuable, virtuous and worthy.” This seems to indicate that our meditations should not be on frivolous, worldly things. This doesn’t mean that we have to be serious all the time, but it does seem to indicate that we are less likely to fall into a worldly mindset and/or deception of the enemy if our focus is on the things of God that are important to our eternal future. I believe that is what the apostle meant when he wrote the Colossians.
Colossians 3:2 “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”
As I continue to think about it, I am reminded of the negative impact that “worldly humor” has had on the morals of our nation—including the church.
Whatsoever things are just – The Greek for just references things that are “equitable, innocent, holy and right.” Again, there are several scriptures that define God as just.
Deuteronomy 32:4 “He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.”
Isaiah 45:21 "Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me.”
Revelation 15:3 “And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, LORD God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints.”
I am reminded that to determine what is true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of good report one must have a standard by which to judge. Again, the only acceptable standard is the Word of God. This is a very intolerant and unpolitically correct statement; nevertheless, it is true. Our nation has taken a moral nosedive because we have slowly but surely kicked God out of our schools and government. Our courts are continually redefining what is “right” and “just” according to human wisdom rather than the wisdom of God as stated in scripture.
Whatsoever things are pure – The Greek defines pure as “clean, i.e. (figuratively) innocent, modest, perfect:—chaste, clean, pure.” One of the first things that jumps out at you from a word search for pure in the scripture is how many times it is used in referencing the making of the tabernacle and all the vessels associated with it—pure gold, pure frankincense, pure myrrh, pure oil, etc. The LORD was emphasizing that just as He is pure and holy, everything associated with worship of Him is to be clean and pure. Our body is His temple and it is important for us to keep our temple clean, modest and chaste.
1 Corinthians 6:19–20 “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
Immediately when we are saved we are imputed the righteousness of God in Jesus; we are made clean and pure.
2Corinthians 5:17&21 “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new….For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
Scripture also emphasizes that the commandments of the LORD and, in fact, every word of God is pure.
Psalm 19:8 “The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.”
Proverbs 30:5 “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.”
This tells me that the purest thoughts and meditations we can have are on the scripture. These are the thoughts and meditations that will benefit us the most for eternity.
Whatsoever things are lovely – Again, this reminds me of a song from my childhood, “He is Altogether Lovely.” The Greek for lovely states “friendly towards, i.e. acceptable.” Webster basically states that it is having qualities that excite one to love or friendship. This is more than a response to physical beauty; it’s a response to the character of a person. There is no one of higher or better character than God. It is to my/our shame that we are not totally committed to the LORD in every area of our lives because there is no one in our lives lovelier than the LORD. Solomon expresses the thought beautifully.
Song of Solomon 5:16 “His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem.”
Whatsoever things are of good report – This is a reference to your reputation. The Greek defines good report as “well spoken of, i.e., reputable.” I only found ten uses of this phrase in the scripture, and they were all in reference to a person’s reputation. So to think on things of good report, would be to focus on qualities that produce a good reputation or testimony in the life of the believer.
“if there be any virtue…praise” – Virtue is a reference to excellence and praise is a reference to that which is worthy of commendation, honor and holding in high esteem. The “ifs” are not in the original. Paul is making a statement about the things that are excellent and worth praising.
“think on these things” - The Greek for think states “to take an inventory, i.e. estimate (literally or figuratively)” and is from a root word that adds “reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive.” I have been using the word meditate in reference to thinking. Webster defines meditation as “To keep the mind in a state of contemplation; to dwell on anything in thought; to think seriously….” Taking an inventory or estimation and reasoning are a result of thinking seriously or contemplation. Paul is stating that he has listed the things that will produce virtue in our life and result in His praise (i.e., Matthew 25:21 “Well done thou good and faithful servant.”). Thinking on these things will motivate us to honor God with our lives. I believe this is the point Paul was making in his letter to the Romans.
Romans 12:2 “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
The JNT Commentary made an important point with the following quote: “The object is not retreat from an evil world, but sanity in it.”
Phil. 4:9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
Paul is confident that he is living in obedience to the LORD according to His word. Several times in his letters, he encourages the believers to follow his example. He is confident that he has taught the truth clearly so as to be understood (from the Greek for learned). The Greek for received states “ to associate with oneself.” Paul is indicating that he has seen evidence of their applying that truth to their lives. Paul’s example had strengthened the effectiveness of his message. Paul can confidently tell the believers that they will experience the peace of God because He will be with them in the presence of the Holy Spirit—both individually and as a church.
Phil. 4:10 But I rejoiced in the LORD greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.
The KJV wording is a bit confusing; I like the phrasing of the Complete Jewish Bible for this verse: “In union with the LORD I greatly rejoice that now, after this long time, you have let your concern for me express itself again. Of course, you were concerned for me all along, but you had no opportunity to express it.”
This care for the Apostle was the financial gift delivered by Epaphroditus and, more importantly, Epaphroditus’ ministry to and with Paul.
Thought – One of the comforting lessons the LORD has taught me is that He will provide one the opportunity to serve according to His will in His timing and in the manner and place of His choosing. I have a heart to respond to many needs that present themselves, but I don’t have the wherewithal or ability to respond to most. It is very comforting to know that where God guides, He will provide.
Phil. 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
Phil. 4:12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
Paul is very careful to declare God’s sufficiency for him; he doesn’t consider himself a needy person. Paul has learned to be satisfied with whatever the LORD provides—be it in poor circumstances or experiencing the luxuries of life. The writer of Hebrews encourages the believer to embrace this truth.
Hebrews 13:5 “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
“instructed” = from the base of 3466; to initiate, i.e. (by implication) to teach….3466. (to shut the mouth); a secret or “mystery” (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites):—mystery.
The Greek for instructed was quite thought provoking. It sounds as though Paul is referencing direct instruction that was given him by the LORD that was specifically for him—not necessarily to teach to others, but to example in his life. As I continue to think about this, I’m not sure you can “teach” that kind of attitude toward life effectively except through personal example. Our testimony before others is sooooo important.
Phil. 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
This is a wonderful verse and is probably a life verse for many people—including one of my daughters. It flows very naturally from Paul’s statement in the previous verse. No matter where God leads, no matter what the circumstances, Paul is confident that he can do anything “through Christ,” the source of his strength in the power of the Holy Spirit. The Greek for through states, “denoting a fixed position.” I think the better translation would have been “in Christ.” The believer’s position “in Christ” is a preeminent truth throughout the letters of the Apostle Paul.
Romans 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”
Romans 12:5 “So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.”
2Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
Galatians 3:28 “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”
Philemon 6 “That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.”
Our position in Christ is a result of a permanent change or transformation.
2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
2 Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
Colossians 3:9–10 “Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him….”
Titus 3:5 “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost….”
I also note that our position in Christ is “fixed”—made firm, set permanently, fastened immovably, made definite. I can’t help it; I love to emphasize every scripture that supports the security of my salvation.
Phil. 4:14 Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.
Even though Paul is content with the sufficiency of Christ’s provision for him, he is very thankful for the provision of the Philippian believers. It was interesting that the Greek for “communicate with” stated, “to co-participate in, be partaker of.” Their provision for Paul caused them to share in Paul’s affliction (persecution, trouble). Their sacrifice connected them with Paul’s experience.
The best connection I can make is how I feel hurt or a burden in my heart for certain people who are experiencing hard times in their life. My time of prayer on their behalf or in writing a note of encouragement and asking God to give me the right verse to share is a result of the heart connection I feel with that person and what they are experiencing.
Phil. 4:15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.
Phil. 4:16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.
We noted earlier that the church at Philippi was the first church in Europe established by the Apostle Paul. It was located in the northern area of the current nation of Greece. “In the beginning of the gospel” seems to be referencing the time that Paul first shared the gospel with this group of people. It seems that, until this time, this was the only church to respond with missionary giving in support of the Apostle Paul. He makes note that they sent gifts of provision to him at least twice during his time of ministry in Thessalonica.
Phil. 4:17 Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.
Because Paul had learned to be satisfied according to God’s provision for him, he is emphasizing to the believers at Philippi that he was most pleased by their gift because of the treasures in heaven that would accrue to their account. The use of the word “fruit” also makes me think of the people in Rome who would come to know the LORD through Paul’s ministry as part of their participation with him. (cf verse 14 above)
Phil. 4:18 But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.
Paul feels like a rich man after receiving their gift at the hands of Epaphroditus. He has everything he needs and more. He compares their gift to a sweet smelling sacrifice, acceptable both to him and to God. When we serve others in the body of Christ, we are serving God.
Colossians 3:23-24 “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the LORD, and not unto men; Knowing that of the LORD ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the LORD Christ.”
Hebrews 6:10 “For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”
Phil. 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
I think Paul is making the point that when we make sacrifices to serve Him and promote the ministry of the gospel, it will never result in our going without what we need. God will always supply the needs of His children. Of course, what we deem to be our needs and what He knows our needs to be may be a bit different. There is no need we have that the Father can’t supply. His riches in glory are limitless. Our access to the Father and His riches is provided through Christ Jesus, His Son. We can never outgive God.
Luke 6:38 “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”
I almost forgot to look up the Greek for need. Not only does it reference necessities that we lack; it first references employment. As the best Father, God knows that one of our main needs is employment, and that we tend to appreciate most the things that we have earned. The fact that we are given provision to earn in no way detracts from the fact that it is God supplying since every ability we have is from God in the first place.
Ecclesiastes 5:19 “Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.”
James 1:17 “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
Paul is proud to identify God as “my God.” His relationship with the LORD is personal.
Phil. 4:20 Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
As Paul closes his letter, he gives praise to God the Father. It reminds me of a kid who is very proud of his dad. To Paul, God is “my God” and “our Father.” He treasures his personal relationship to the LORD, and he treasures the fact that he has a family in the LORD. Another blessed truth—we will get to praise the LORD for eternity.
Amen = so be it, verily—my translation: you can count on it
Phil. 4:21 Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you.
Phil. 4:22 All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar’s household.
The Greek for salute is referencing an embrace or hug. Paul is sending his love to all the saints at Philippi. It sounds as though he is asking them to share hugs with one another as they think of him. Maybe he is asking Epaphroditus to pass around the hugs. Whatever—I love to “salute” the saints.
Paul also sends greetings from their fellow Christians who are with him. They too are sending them expressions of Christian love. It would seem that the saints surrounding Paul are from the ranks of those that work in and around Caesar’s palace.
Phil. 4:23 The grace of our LORD Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
Paul closes with a short prayer for the saints at Philippi. He prays that they will possess the grace of “our” LORD Jesus Christ. I love the Greek for grace: “The divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life.” This is a prayer for the Philippians to have submissive hearts. A heart that is truly submitted to the LORD will reap the fullness of God’s blessings. It will not necessarily, and most probably will not, be material wealth as taught by the so-called “prosperity teachers”; but it does not discount material blessings now. Personally, I believe I possess some of the greatest treasure the LORD gives in having a husband that loves the LORD and loves me accordingly and in knowing that my children love the LORD and want to live their lives according to His word (and seven beautiful grandchildren who are being raised to love the LORD and His word). There just is no worldly blessing more valuable than that!
To the Philippians written from Rome, by Epaphroditus.
This is an affirmation that this letter is being sent from Rome in the care of Epaphroditus.