V1
In Acts 16.13-15, Lydia was the first convert at Philippi. The Church
there was born in the place of prayer.
As in Eph 1.1, Christians are addressed as “saints in Christ Jesus”.
This is a commendation, that they already lived as saints, and a challenge, that
they might become more like saints.
Church leadership was elders/overseers and deacons; this was apparently
the normal structure, as explained in 1 Timothy.
V2
Paul’s opening prayer request, for grace and peace upon them.
V3-11
Thanksgiving and prayer; there is fellowship in the gospel, to which
distance is no barrier.
V3
The Philippian Christians are very dear to Paul; “I have you in my
heart” (v7); “how I long for all of you” (v8); “you whom I love and long
for” (4.1). No wonder Paul thanks God every time he remembers them.
V4
Paul’s constant joyful prayer. “Joy” is a key word, being used
throughout the letter.
Paul prayed for them all, including Euodia and Syntyche, who had caused
some difficulties (see 4.2).
V5
Christian partnership, or fellowship, is something very precious. It is
spiritual, being more than just human friendship.
“Gospel”, another key word, used 1.5,7,12,16,27; 2.22; 4.3,15. The
gospel brings us into fellowship with God, and with each other.
V6
Our confidence and security is in Christ. The solid, doctrinal basis
explained in Eph 1 enables us to rejoice in Christ’s utter faithfulness.
Since Christ is faithful, we should be faithful too.
Paul was confident that
–
the Christian and the church would be preserved;
–
that the gospel would be promoted (v12);
–
other Christians would be encouraged (v14);
–
that “Christ is preached” (v18); and
–
that our future is with Christ (v23).
V7
Prayer and concern together; not unlike the O.T. priest, who carried the
people on his heart, Ex 28.15-30; 39.8-14.
V8
Paul’s deep love for the Philippians, affection given by Christ.
Paul uses the word “all” (v1,4,7,8,9,13,20,25), indicating his love
for each one.
V9
Paul’s prayers for the Philippians.
First that they would
grow in love, as in 1 Thess 4.9-10. That their love would be with knowledge and
discernment, without which love can become sentimental.
V10
That they might discern what is the best, or approve the things that are
excellent (1 Thess 5.21). The Christian must grow in discernment, judging
between good and bad. However we must do more than just reject the bad, we must
approve and embrace the good. In this way we are prepared for the day of Christ,
when our lives will be tested.
V11
Filled with the fruits of righteousness, as the very character of Christ
is developed in us. These fruits are only available in Him.
As in Eph 1.6,12, all these things are to the glory and praise of God;
our lives are supposed to bring glory to Him.
V12
Paul shares what has happened to him. He was a man of real courage,
enduring hardship for the sake of Christ. He feels able to share these things
with a supportive and loving church. It may be that the Philippians had
indicated that they wanted to know Paul’s whereabouts and his trials. Paul is
confident that whatever trials he endures will actually promote the gospel.
V13
Many had realised that Paul was in prison because of his faith in Christ.
V14
As a result, the word is preached, and Christians are encouraged. Such is
the immediate effect of Paul’s imprisonment.
V15-18
Some maintained bad attitudes. Paul is very gracious here, and rejoicing
in God’s overruling hand. The gospel is on the agenda, and therefore Paul
rejoices. There is power in the gospel, however well or badly it is preached.
V19
Paul respects the prayers of others. Had he despised their prayers, he
would have discouraged them. He is confident in the effectiveness and value of
prayer, his circumstances being sanctified by prayer.
V20
His only desire, that Christ be magnified, whatever happens to Paul
himself, and whether he is used by God, or laid aside by God.
V21
His high standard of attitude; that life is Christ, and glory for Christ
through His work being promoted; but death is gain, as Paul would be “with
Christ”.
V22
Paul knew that God would bless his labours.
V23
But for Paul, there is the greater blessing of leaving this earth, and
going to be with Christ.
V24-26
Paul’s unselfish concern for others. His confidence, “I shall
remain”. God had more work for him, his God-given task is not yet complete.
His work was to encourage growth, the progress and joy of faith.
V27
Godly conduct is worthy of the gospel of Christ. It is a visible evidence
of the life of Christ in us. It is in this way that we commend the gospel to
others.
We are to stand together and strive together, wherever we are, one
spirit, one mind, in agreement, 2.2; 3.16; 4.2, so that we may proclaim and
uphold the gospel.
V28
There are those who oppose, which is itself a proof of salvation. There
is a clear expectation that we shall meet such as these. The Lord’s command
(Matt 5.12; Luke 6.22-23) is that we rejoice and are glad.
V29
Belief in Christ will necessarily bring suffering. To never experience
opposition is unusual. The Lord’s promise that we shall have tribulation
reflects Paul’s own calling, Acts 9.16.