Philippians 4:1-13
The Epistle to the Philippians is full of cheer and inspiration. Although written in a prison, a sweet song sings though it all. No other of the churches established by Paul seems to have given him so much comfort as did this church at Philippi. His cheerful counsels to these church members are golden words for all Christians. The passage begins with an expression of the apostle’s love for his people, from whom now he was separated. He speaks to them as beloved and longed for, his joy and crown. No reward that a pastor can have is so great as souls led to Christ and lives helped, built up, and enriched.
The first lesson taught is that of steadfastness. “Stand fast in the Lord.” Next, he exhorts them to unity in spirit and life. It would seem that two women, Euodias and Syntyche, had been estranged in some way, and Paul writes to his yokefellow urging him to seek a restoration of kindly relations between them. Paul thus sought to realize the Beatitude, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God.” It is a pleasant thought that the names of all those who work for Christ are in the book of life. They may not be written in the list of those who are distinguished on the earth, but the humblest and lowliest name is down in the register of heaven.
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