Philippians 4:1
In verse one Paul refers to the Philippians church as his “crown.”
From Wikipedia (laurel wreath):
“In ancient Greece wreaths were awarded to victors, both in athletic competitions, including the ancient Olympics made of wild olive-tree known as “kotinos” (κότινος), and in poetic meets; in Rome they were symbols of martial victory, crowning a successful commander during his triumph.”
Paul was making reference to the crown of life (Revelation 2:11) that he would one day receive for his sacrifice to the faith. It’s the prize at the finish line that he’s focused through scripture after scripture.
We also see Paul referring to them as “dearly beloved,” which shows the deep affection and close connection he had to his converts.
Philippians 4:2
By looking at verse two, it would seem that Euodia and Syntyche were dealing with some sort of conflict. Paul was urging them to be in harmony. It’s something that we still see in the church today as people seek their own interests and their need to be right.
Striving to be of one mind and live harmoniously, can only be accomplished with an attitude of humility.
What are some ways that Christians can repair relationships in the church?
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Philippians 4:3
Paul addresses the church as “yokefellow.” That word typifies oxen paired together by a wooden beam. Together they labor, pulling a cart. The word “yoke” is used elsewhere in scripture instructing believers not to be unequally yoked with non-believers. In order to accomplish our work, we must be in step with one another, rather than pulling in separate directions.
This is the first time the “book of life” is mentioned in the Bible. The Greek word for book is biblos, which is where our word “Bible” comes from.
The book of life is also mentioned in Revelation 22:19, “And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.”
Do you think that your name is written in the book of life? Why or why not?
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Philippians 4:4-5
According to Strongs, G1933, “moderation” here means, equitable, fair, mild, gentle. The church is a witness to the world, and they are drawn to Christ by people who are gentle, fair, and mild as He was.
"He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth." ~ Isaiah 53:7
What things might you change to let your "moderation" show? Or is it showing already?
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Philippians 4:6
Again we see the theme of joy running through this letter. The word “joy” is used six times in this letter to the Philippians, and “rejoice” is mentioned eight times. Twice in verse 4, Paul says “rejoice in the Lord,” now he is telling them not to be troubled by anything, but to bring their prayers and needs (supplications) to God.
Is there anything in your life that is draining you of your joy? If so, write those things here and bring them to God in prayer.
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Philippians 4:7
Pay close attention to this verse. I often talk about the difference between the heart and mind, and here Paul is deciphering between the two.
Here’s what he’s saying:
The ways of God, and His paths that offer eternal peace, are beyond our intellectual capabilities. They protect our passions and our thoughts by offering us a better way to live.
This is why it’s possible to rejoice in times of trials. Because when we believe in God through Jesus Christ we accept that wisdom of God over the wisdom of man. It doesn’t always coincide with our passions. In fact as one reader put it, it feels more like a bed of nails than a comfy recliner at times.
There are two paths--one is that of walking in the Spirit and the other is walking according to the desires of the flesh. One leads to peace and the other to destruction.
The biggest lie that Christians tell themselves is this, “If God didn’t want me to do this, it wouldn’t feel so right.” This is where faith separates us from the world. When we follow God’s Word, we put our trust in Him. We believe that all things work out together for good to them who are in Christ Jesus, even if that good isn’t something we can see, touch, smell or define at this moment.
This faith is what carries us through trials both big and small. We don’t have the answers as to “why” they happen, but we remain focused on God believing that His ways are wiser than ours.
Are there areas of your life that you haven't given up to God? They might be things like addiction, anger, resentment, or lust. They are things that we are holding onto rather than feeling the sting of the pain that comes with living a sacrificial life. Living in comfort only benefits us in the moment, living a sacrificial life benefits us for eternity. Take the first step in releasing your strongholds by writing them down here:
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Philippians 4:8
I always say that you are only one thought away from joy. The world can try to bring us down, but they can’t control our thoughts. He has given us the power to change our way of thinking by focusing on good and tuning out the bad. The more we focus on good things the more we tune out the bad.
List ten positive things about your life:
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Philippians 4:9
We see four ways of growing in wisdom here:
• Learning
• Receiving
• Hearing
• Seeing
We learn by reading the word, and thereby growing in wisdom.
Receiving the word is accepting that word and choosing to live by it. It’s like receiving a football as opposed to letting it bounce off of your arms.
Hearing the word is different than just listening. It denotes one who is paying attention and considering the message. Anyone can listen to the gospel, but not all are willing to hear what is being said.
Seeing is watching the way that other believers walk and gleaning from them.
Philippians 4:10-16
By these verses we see that there was a time when the Philippian church wasn’t able to support Paul as much in his ministry, but here he was thanking them because things had changed. In fact he mentions that in the beginning of his ministry the Philippian church was the only ones giving to his ministry.
Paul explains that it doesn’t matter whether they were able to give much or little, as he was content in either situation. This is the same focus that all ministers of the gospel should have. If you receive well for your work it’s a blessing, but we all must learn to be content with little as well, since God supplies our needs.
But on that note, we must also remember that those in ministry need the support of their church to continue working. If they aren’t being supported as they should be, they may have to take part time jobs that take their mind off of the work at hand.
The more we can support our church financially, we lessen the burden that it has to pay wages and that of the day to day costs of running a church.
"Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward." ~ 1 Timothy 5:17-18
Tithes: The tenth part of agricultural produce or personal income set apart as an offering to God for the works of mercy, or the same amount regarded as an obligation or tax for the support of the church, priesthood, or the like. (dictionary.com)
Do you pay tithes? Why or why not?
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Philippians 4:17-23
It’s not as much as Paul was desiring a gift from them, but rather that he realizes the reward that the Philippian church will receive from God for their sacrificial gifts.
Our sacrifices of money, time, or passions that we give up for the sake of Christ are a sweet sacrifice to the Lord. They mirror the sacrifices made through the levitical law:
"Burning meat does not have any particular sweetness of smell, but they were called sweet because they typically represented the absolute perfection and obedience of Yahshua HaMashiach [Hebrew name for Anointed one of God]." (rabdavis.org)
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. ~Colossians 3:17, KJV
Optional homework for the week:
Memorize Philippians 4:7
Underline some of the scriptures that stood out to you and add cross references for future study.
Read the fourth chapter again with some of the lessons in mind.
That closes our study on the book of Philippians. Thank you for studying with us!!
We won't be continuing the studies next week as I'll resume my regular blogging.
If you are studying along with us this week, you are welcome to leave a link to your site in the Linky tool below. But rather than linking up with a graphic from your blog like we usually do, it would be nice if you could post your profile photo so we can all see each other. If you don't have one--not a problem, another graphic will do. The Linky tool is just a way for all of us to get to know each other, it's not necessary to write a corresponding post.
I'm also posting the button code to the Bible study in hopes that you can add it to your post or sidebar.
And don't forget, tomorrow is Titus 2sdays, so if you're a blogger, come back and link up with your post on marriage, parenting, housekeeping or recipes.
You are loved by an almighty God,
Darlene
For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net
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