Philippians 4:1

Philippians 4:1-7. With such a prospect, and such a Saviour, let them be steadfast, united, joyful, self-forgetful, restful, prayerful, and the peace of god shall be theirs

1. Therefore In view of such a hope, and such a Lord.

dearly beloved Omit "dearly," which is not in the Greek; though assuredly in the tone of the passage. The word "beloved" is a favourite with all the apostolic writers; a characteristic word of the Gospel of holy love. St Paul uses it 27 times of his converts and friends.

longed for The word occurs here only in N.T., but the cognate verb occurs Philippians 1:6; Philippians 2:26, and cognate nouns Romans 15:23; 2 Corinthians 7:7; 2 Corinthians 7:11. The address here is full of deep personal tenderness, and of longing desire to revisit Philippi.

my joy and crown Cp. the like words to the sister Church in Macedonia, 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20; 1 Thessalonians 3:9; and see 2 Corinthians 1:14. The thought of the Day of glory brings up the thought of his recognition of his converts then, and rejoicing over them before the Lord. Manifestly he expects to know the Philippians, to remember Philippi.

so In such faith, and with such practice, as I have now again enjoined on you.

stand fast The same verb as that Philippians 1:27, where see note. And here cp. especially 1 Corinthians 16:13; Gal 5:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:8 (a close parallel, in both word and tone). The Christian is never to stand still, as to growth and service; ever to stand fast, as to faith, hope, and love.

in the Lord In recollection and realization of your vital union with Him who is your peace, life, hope, and King. Cp. Ephesians 6:10, and note in this Series.

my dearly beloved Lit., simply, beloved. His heart overflows, as he turns from the sad view of sin and misbelief to these faithful and loving followers of the holy truth. He can hardly say the last word of love.

H. FAMILY AFFECTION OF CHRISTIANITY. (Ch. Philippians 4:1)

"While the great motives of the Gospel reduce the multiplicity and confusion of the passions by their commanding force, they do, by the very same energy, expand all sensibilities; or, if we might so speak, send the pulse of life with vigour through the finer vessels of the moral system: there is far less apathy, and a far more equable consciousness in the mind, after it has admitted Christianity, than before; and, by necessary consequence, there is more individuality, because more life. Christians, therefore, while they understand each other better than other men do, possess a greater stock of sentiment to make the subject of converse, than others. The comparison of heart to heart knits heart to heart, and communicates to friendship very much that is sweet and intense.…

"So far as Christians truly exhibit the characteristics of their Lord, in spirit and conduct, a vivid emotion is enkindled in other Christian bosoms, as if the bright Original of all perfection stood dimly revealed.… The conclusion comes upon the mind … that this family resemblance … springs from a common centre, and that there exists, as its archetype, an invisible Personage, of whose glory all are, in a measure, partaking."

Isaac Taylor, of Ongar; Saturday Evening, ch. 18.