by Mark Rater
Philippians 4:1-23 (NASB)
1 Therefore, my beloved brethren whom I long to see, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, my beloved. 2 I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord. 3 Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. 4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! 5 Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. 9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. 10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. 13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. 14 Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction. 15 You yourselves also know, Philippians, that at the first preaching of the gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you alone; 16 for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs. 17 Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen. 21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you. 22 All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar's household. 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
Summary of Phillippians 4
The apostle exhorts them to stand fast in the Lord, v. 1. And encourages Euodias and Syntyche to be of one mind in Divine things, v. 2. And requests his fellow servant to help them to a good understanding, v. 3. Gives them directions concerning their temper and frame of mind, vv. 4-7. And how to act in all respects regarding the purity and excellence of the Gospel, as they had heard from and seen in him, vv. 8, 9. Thanks them for their attention to him in his captivity, in sending him what was necessary for his support, though he had learned to be content in all situations in life, vv. 10-14. Mentions particular cases in which they had ministered to him; promises them, through the riches of glory in Christ, a supply of all their spiritual wants; and renders thanks to God, vv. 15-20. Salutes all the saints, and those particularly of the emperor's household, vv. 21, 22. And concludes with his usual apostolical benediction, v. 23. -adapted from Adam Clarke, Adam Clarke's Commentary, (New York: Abingdon-Cokesbury Press, 1826).
Opening Discussion Questions
How do you tend to respond when things don’t go your way?
When was a time you felt contentment in the middle of problems or uncertainty?
Explore The Text
What do verses 1-5 tell us about Christian relationships and what do these verses tell us to do?
How should an awareness of Christ’s imminent return affect a person’s attitude? (4:5-7)
How are we to handle anxiety? (4:6-7)
What are the qualities of wholesome thoughts? (4:8)
What were the Philippians to put into practice? (4:9)
How can believers enjoy the presence of the God of peace? (4:9)
What lesson had Paul learned about contentment? (4:10-13)
Why could Paul handle any kind of circumstance? (4:13)
What do we learn about the needs of believers/ministries from verses 14-19?
How would God reciprocate the believers’ generosity? (4:19)
To what did Paul give prominence in closing his letter? (4:23)
Applying The Text
How have disagreements between people affected your church?
When have you been involved in helping Christians resolve differences?
If you were more thankful, joyful, and gentle, how might your family and friends, and church be affected?
What does it take for you to think worthy thoughts?
What does it mean to live a righteous life-style?
In what areas of your life do you need to follow Paul’s example/the precepts of God found in His Word?
How do you handle the unexpected and what can you learn from Paul about being content?
The Philippian Christians helped Paul when he needed it; how are you able to help other individuals and ministries that are in trouble?
Being Doers of the Word This Week
What can you do today to reduce your level of anxiety?
How can you be an effective peacemaker this week?
This week, what can you do to help a Christian who needs financial support?
What can you do to develop an attitude of contentment in all circumstances?
How does your thought life compare to verses 8-9?
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