BLESSINGS SURELY BELONGING TO CHRISTIANS The "ifs" of 1 Peter 2:1 were not meant to question, but to be a plain statement of fact. The word "since" might better suggest the meaning to modern readers. Paul is listing things which should cause Christians to be united. First, there is a consolation in... [ Continue Reading ]
COMPLETING PAUL'S JOY THROUGH UNITY The Philippian church had already given Paul much cause for rejoicing (1 Peter 1:4; 1 Peter 4:1). He pleaded with them to complete his joy by being united in thought, love, work and purpose. Even elders are not to be self-willed (Titus 1:7). Christians agree in B... [ Continue Reading ]
THE MIND OF CHRIST In continuing the ideas of unity and the consideration of others which promotes it, Paul refers to Christ. He wanted the Philippians to have the same disposition, or attitude as Christ. To live like Christ, one must think like Christ thought and live accordingly (1 Peter 2:21.) Be... [ Continue Reading ]
GOD HAS EXALTED CHRIST Jesus prayed just before his death that God would glorify him again as he had been glorified before the world was (John 17:5). Because Jesus lowered himself to lift man up, God exalted him more than ever before (Romans 1:3-4; Matthew 28:18). Remember, Jesus taught that the man... [ Continue Reading ]
GOD WORKS IN CHRISTIANS When Christians submit their lives to God's will, it can be said that God works in them (1 Peter 2:13). The Almighty works in them through his great plan for man's salvation. "But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God fro... [ Continue Reading ]
PAUL'S WILLINGNESS TO SACRIFICE Paul had so absorbed Christ's qualities that he was ready to die that the greater sacrifice of their lives of faith might be enhanced. He saw his death as a drink offering poured out on the altar. Often, drink offerings preceded other sacrifices to God. Paul rejoiced... [ Continue Reading ]
TIMOTHY Paul was able to broaden his service to the various churches by sending faithful messengers to them. He hoped it would be the Lord's will that Timothy could soon be sent to check on the welfare of the church at Philippi. When he had delivered word from Paul to them, he could report back to... [ Continue Reading ]
EPAPHRODITUS It is possible Epaphroditus was the one who carried this letter to the Philippians. "Your messenger" could be translated "your epistle" if he was the one sent. He was a brother in Christ, a co-worker in furthering the gospel, and one who had fought side by side with Paul in defense of... [ Continue Reading ]