Philippians 4

Philippians 4 is the final chapter of Paul's letter to the church in Philippi. It contains various exhortations and instructions, including an appeal for unity, encouragement to rejoice and pray, a call to live righteously, and gratitude for the Philippians' support of Paul. The chapter concludes with a powerful message of God’s provision and strength, reminding the readers that God will supply their needs.

Philippians 4:1 (NKJV)
"Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved."

Paul expresses his deep affection for the Philippians, referring to them as his joy and crown, a testament to their faithful walk in the Lord. He encourages them to continue standing firm in their faith, as their steadfastness brings him great personal joy and reflects the fruit of his ministry.

Philippians 4:2-3 (NKJV)
"I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life."

Paul appeals to two women, Euodia and Syntyche, who seem to have had a disagreement, urging them to be united in the Lord. He also requests help from a “true companion” to assist them in resolving their differences, acknowledging their labor in spreading the gospel. This highlights the importance of unity and cooperation within the body of Christ.

Philippians 4:4 (NKJV)
"Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!"

Paul emphasizes the importance of joy in the Christian life, urging the believers to rejoice in the Lord at all times, regardless of circumstances. Joy is not dependent on external factors but is rooted in a relationship with God.

Philippians 4:5 (NKJV)
"Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand."

Paul calls for gentleness or moderation to be evident in the lives of believers. This gentleness should be a reflection of their trust in God and the awareness that the Lord's return is near, encouraging them to live peaceably with others.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Paul advises the Philippians not to be anxious but to turn all their worries into prayers, making their requests known to God with gratitude. In return, God promises a peace that transcends human understanding, which will protect their hearts and minds, keeping them steady in Christ.

Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things."

Paul encourages the believers to focus their minds on things that are good and virtuous. By filling their thoughts with truth, purity, and praiseworthy things, they will cultivate a mindset that honors God and promotes spiritual growth.

Philippians 4:9 (NKJV)
"The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you."

Paul urges the Philippians to practice the teachings and lifestyle they have observed in him. By doing so, they will experience the presence of God’s peace in their lives. Paul’s life serves as a model for how they should live out their faith.

Philippians 4:10 (NKJV)
"But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity."

Paul expresses gratitude for the Philippians' renewed support. He acknowledges that they always cared for him, but now they had the opportunity to express it through their gifts. This shows Paul's appreciation for their partnership in the gospel.

Philippians 4:11-12 (NKJV)
"Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need."

Paul shares that his contentment does not depend on his circumstances. Whether in need or abundance, he has learned to be satisfied with what he has. This reflects Paul's deep trust in God's provision and his ability to endure any situation through faith.

Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

This famous verse encapsulates Paul’s reliance on Christ’s strength. No matter what challenges or hardships he faces, Paul affirms that it is through Christ’s power that he is able to persevere and overcome.

Philippians 4:14-15 (NKJV)
"Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only."

Paul commends the Philippians for their generosity and support during his times of distress. They were the only church that consistently provided for his needs when he first began his ministry. Their actions reflect a deep partnership in spreading the gospel.

Philippians 4:16-17 (NKJV)
"For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account."

Paul acknowledges the Philippians' repeated support, even when he was in Thessalonica. He clarifies that his focus is not on the gift itself but on the spiritual blessings and growth that their generosity brings to them.

Philippians 4:18 (NKJV)
"Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God."

Paul reassures the Philippians that he has received their gifts and is abundantly supplied. He likens their generosity to a pleasing sacrifice before God, showing that their giving is not only helpful to him but also honored by God.

Philippians 4:19 (NKJV)
"And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."

Paul assures the Philippians that God, who is rich in glory, will meet all their needs in Christ. Their generosity toward him will not go unrewarded, for God will faithfully provide for them.

Philippians 4:20 (NKJV)
"Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen."

Paul concludes this section by giving glory to God, acknowledging Him as the source of all provision and blessings. This doxology reflects Paul's heart of worship and dependence on God.

Philippians 4:21-23 (NKJV)
"Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar’s household. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen."

Paul sends greetings to all the believers in Philippi, including a special mention of those in Caesar's household, indicating that the gospel had reached even into the Roman elite. He closes with a prayer of grace for them, wishing them the continued blessing of Christ’s presence.