Essentials of Participating in the Gospel (Overview of Philippians)

We have examined this pastoral epistle written to the church of Philippi by Paul the Apostle in some detail.  Now we want to step back as we overview the development of Paul’s major concerns in this letter.

Background of the Participants Acts 16

We initiated our study by first studying Acts chapter 16 to get some background on the planting of this church through the efforts of Paul, Silas, Timothy, and Luke. We learn in chapter 4 of Philippians that a number of the early converts in that place quickly stepped up to help in the work.  In chapter 1 of Philippians, Paul praises the entire church for their “participation in the gospel.” 

Sacrificial Participation in Finances

We saw that this participation certainly included their witness, but Paul particularly singles out their participation by sharing their financial resources with him even after he left town and ministered elsewhere.  In fact, in chapter 4, he singles out this church as the only one that continued to finance his travels long after he was gone.  They even sacrificially participated in the campaign for the persecuted believers in Jerusalem.  They gave until it hurt, and Paul knew there were a number of years that they were unable to help even though they wanted to.  But Paul had just received another gift from them along with a letter indicating a fear that they were unsure of their ability to give regularly because of their poverty.  And in this letter Paull sets out to widen their perspective on their participation in the gospel.

God’s Purpose in Perfecting Our Works

In verse 6 of chapter 1, Paul explains that God was doing a “work” in them and He would “complete” or “perfect” it until the “day of Christ Jesus.”  Many people (including myself) have cited this verse as proof that “once saved always saved” or that God is, in fact, going to make us perfect.  (Now, it is true that a believer has everlasting life right now. And it is also true that God, by His Spirit, is working in us —the transformation process requires our cooperation—otherwise why bother with all these exhortations as to how to live a godly life if it’s happening automatically!)  But, it seems that a better understanding for verse 6 is that he is talking about the good works we do—not our salvation.  Those works have a purpose that God is perfecting.

God Promises Rewards for Our Faithfulness

They are actually “perfected” by God and they will have their intended effects.  We might say that they are like a spreading ripple that continues until the day Jesus Christ comes to examine our works as believers.  Why is that?  Because the Word of God does not return void, but it does what God intends it to do (Isaiah 55:11).  And in Philippi, their motivation to share finances with Paul is having a ripple effect all over the Roman empire and even continues today with the publication of this beautiful epistle!  God put it into their hearts to share and they cooperated with that godly impulse in a way that began to transform the way they viewed their resources.  By the time this letter was written, they were consumed with their ability to continue to give.  So over and over in this letter, Paul commends them for this.  And in verse 6, he is saying that what they did was the result of what God put in their heart and He will complete what He started until Jesus comes back to have us give an account of what we did with the resources He gave us.  God gives the increase, but He rewards us for our faithfulness.

Our Motivation for Participating in the Gospel

The remainder of the book is Paul’s explanation of this participation in the gospel.  He deals with the matter of our motivation behind our participation.  Sometimes there are terrible situations we find ourselves in or people who misuse the message to harm us.  But, none of this will stop the gospel.  The wrong motives will have consequences but as far as the gospel is concerned, what others may intend for evil, God intends for good (Genesis 50:20).  For example, his prison experience and the jealous gospel teachers could not stop the gospel. (Note also that the evil motives of the jealous teachers will have future consequences at the judgment seat of Christ.)

Pray for Insight to Walk Worthy

So, Paul prays that the Philippians will have the insight to understand the best course of action in each twist and turn (1:10).  This insight is an inner transformation that affects our outer life into a “walk that is worthy” of the gospel.  Even in the face of opposition, they should live in a way that even their opponents will recognize God’s hand underscoring the truth of the gospel. This sign is the same one Jesus mentioned that the world will know we are disciples by our love for each other (John 13;35).  Here the sign is our unity in the gospel. On the other hand, infighting among those who name the name of Christ does not stop the gospel, but it does affect our accounting when Christ returns.  Also, we may suffer for the gospel, but that should be seen as an opportunity to participate in a great victory for the gospel.

Our Walk Begins with Our Attitude

Chapter two discusses the “how” of participating in the gospel.  It is consumed with cultivating a sense of humbly serving others just as Christ did.  This is how the gospel is spread.  It is a walk that begins with an attitude—like Christ’s. 

As we serve others in humility we are still very human and subject to making comparisons and looking at how others are doing things, so Paul tells us not to whine or complain but to shine (2:14-16).  We look instead to the expectation of joy in the return of Christ when this is all behind us.  As we cooperate with God (and each other), we learn to have that inner joy in seeing God work through us.  That’s the kind of participation we look forward to.

Strive to Live Out the Righteousness that Christ Gives

This inner attitude then, is one of exulting in God as well as in cultivating humility.  But, our works do not make us righteous and Paul points to his own attempts to keep the law which he labels as stinking and worthless in comparison to the righteousness that Christ provides.  But, still, we are to strive to live out this righteousness as if we had already received our sinless resurrection bodies.  He recognizes that some immature believers might not yet understand this logic but we all should live up to what we do know to the best of our ability and don’t give up.   This is why it is important in choosing a proper role model. 

We are to avoid copying those with a temporal value system.  Their mind is set on the things of this world.  Instead look for people whose lives reflect an expectation of Jesus’ return.

Our Faithful Participation Depends on Our Attitude

So ultimately, what a participant in the gospel, a citizen of heaven, a believer in Christ, is to DO is to continually work on their attitude.  In chapter 4 we have a long list of attitude adjustments—how to think—our mindset (4:7-9).  The result of right thinking is right actions which leads to inner peace with God because we are doing the things that please Him.

The conclusion of the letter is that we can be fully contented in Christ—no matter what situations may swirl around us.  God will supply our needs as we participate in the gospel. 

© 2019 Eric Thimell

Contented in Christ--Philippians 4:10-23

Context

As we wind down our study of Philippians, we are completing Paul’s explanation of one of the major themes of the letter—having a Christlike attitude of concern for others over personal convenience leads to inner peace and harmony with God and His plans.

Personal Illustration Philippians 4:10

In verse 10, Paul illustrates this principle with a look at his own attitude.  It is joy—great joy—that comes from seeing the Philippians dip their toe in the waters of concern for others again and again!  As the Philippians follow Paul’s teaching about generosity toward others they begin to get hooked.  The most recent example is their concern for Paul – again.  Earlier, they were concerned and were unable to help but Paul is just as delighted at every instance of their care and concern for others whether it accrued to him or not.  His godly leadership to this end will benefit him at the bema where he will show the Lord his beloved Philippians and there be rewarded.  But for now, his benefit is contentment.

Totally Content Philippians 4:11-12

In verse 11, he specifically points out that he is not really in any need at all because he is totally content no matter what his circumstances are.  He acknowledges in verse 12 that he has experienced both times of want and times of abundance, but he always remains content.  Now, he grabs their attention by attributing this to a “secret.”  The Greek word means “instruction.”  In the New Testament this word is especially related to the word translated “disciple.”  The “secret” comes through “discipleship” or “instruction from the master.”  Paul was not one of the twelve who were personally discipled by Jesus, but he had spent time in the school of life under the tutelage of the Holy Spirit as he applied the Scripture to his life.  It is a process for Paul as it is for us—learning to have a Christlike attitude that is able to be content even when he is hungry or in pain.

The Secret of Contentment Philippians 4:13

Verse 13 gives the “secret.”  “I am able to do all things through the One Who strengthens me.”  (Some manuscripts insert “Christ” but either rendering is clear enough in any case.)  Christ gives us strength to be content, to do what He asks of us.  This verse is not a catchall cherry-picked motto that we can count on when we take on an edgy adventure doing our own thing.  The context is about living to please God in all circumstances and being content doing so.  He gives us the ability to do everything He asks of us and inner contentment in doing it His way.

Praise for the Philippians’ Attitude of Sharing Philippians 4:14-18

In verse 14 he quickly points out that he is not at all unhappy with the church for sending him money.  “You did well,” he says.  He is not a glutton for pain but rather he is rooting for them because they were sharing with Paul in his “trouble.”    He was content in his trouble, yet Paul is happy they shared with him—not for his own relief—but because they were sharing. 

In verses 15 and 16 he goes on to talk about how proud he is of them.  They were the only church to keep helping him after he left town.  Some places where he went the local believers gave him room and board, but Philippi kept on helping him. They even helped him in Thessalonica more than once. Perhaps these Thessalonians were lacking in hospitality as well as in curiosity about the Scriptures!  But Philippi made up for their lack.

In verse 17 Paul is careful to point out that he is not buttering them up so they will send him more money.  He just wants them to maximize their eternal reward at the judgment seat of Christ.

In verse 18 he makes sure they know that he has received everything they sent at the hand of Epaphroditus and he now has plenty.  He doesn’t need anything else right now.  He then points again to the way God views their gift. 

He calls it a “fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, very pleasing to God.”  This phrase should be familiar to us since it is very similar to Paul’s description of God’s response when we dedicate our lives to Him as a “living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1).  If we have truly dedicated our lives to God, this attitude of concern for others should be a logical outgrowth of that.  (He who has been forgiven much, loves much.)  When we give sacrificially for God’s work, it is pleasing to God.  The words “fragrant offering” are a metaphor for the altar of incense in the Old Testament.

Christ Shares from God’s Total Supply Philippians 4:19

So now in verse 19 we come to another familiar verse that is NOT just a motto that we use to justify everything we think we need.  It does say that God will supply every need.  But He also supplies contentment in whatever situation we are in as we cultivate a Christlike attitude that thinks of other people first.  It is “according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”   Jesus is the firstborn Who inherits everything but He in turn shares them with us in proportion to our service to Him.  All believers receive eternal life but not all receive the same reward.

God’s Plan Flows from His Character Philippians 4:20

In verse 20 Paul praises God for this wonderful plan.  That word “glory” is a reference to God’s character—in this case—His willingness to share with us!  He wants us to be like Him in this.

Postscript on the Penetration of God’s Power Philippians 4:21-23

Verses 21-23 are a series of personal greetings to the believers in Philippi from the believers in Rome.  Note the interesting greeting from “those who belong to Caesar’s household.”  The gospel had penetrated even to the seat of power for the Roman empire.  This is just a glimpse of the kind of power that Paul counts on to supply all his needs.  No wonder he is content.

It ends with a call for God’s grace—His free gift— to be “with their spirit” – or better, “with you all” as we have in the NKJV.  (This rendering is found in many ancient witnesses as well as the Majority text.)  The latter reading seems to fit better with the idea found in the context that God’s grace is for every need and not just a spiritual benefit.

Our final study will look at an overview of the letter as a whole.

© 2019 Eric Thimell

Cultivating a Peaceful Heart--Philippians 4:7-9

Context

Here in Philippians 4, Paul has been discussing our need for an attitude adjustment—the need for Christlike humility and concern for others that results in real behavior changes.  We ended by looking at verses 6 and 7 last time which talk about letting God’s peace replace our tendency to worry about our needs.  We saw that this peace is the result of entrusting those things to God in prayer.

Cultivating a Proper Thought Life Philippians 4:8

This theme of God’s peace flooding our being as we learn to trust Him, continues in verse 8.  Not only do we need to replace worry with trusting prayer, but we also need to cultivate a proper thought life.  These are things we can control.  While other people’s attitudes and behaviors can land on our doorstep, we can control how we think about them and the way we deal with them. 

There are thoughts we need to shut out or ignore.  This isn’t to say we only think “positive” thoughts and refuse to plan when things go awry.  But when difficulties of life arouse anxiety, we need to focus instead on our godly response and prayer.  That’s how we replace anxiety with trust. Other thoughts that lead to lust, hatred, or covetousness need to be viewed as sinful thoughts and replaced with godly thoughts.  But whatever thoughts we have must all be under the control of the Spirit of God.

So, Paul gives us a menu of the kinds of thoughts that need to be cultivated.  Notice that the list begins with the truth.  Let all thoughts of deception flee far away.  Lies are the refuge of wrongdoers.  Sometimes we need to confront deception, but it begins with a thoughtful defense of the truth—not by blurting out a vicious retort or responding in kind with more deception.

By the way, some people say Christians should never defend or “protect” themselves.  The Bible never says that anywhere. However, it may sometimes be the wiser course of action to ignore some things—especially if your self-defense might be misconstrued as an attack on someone.  We do have a responsibility to defend our family and others who depend on us and to answer those who ask for a reason for the hope that lies within us or other required responsibilities.  But, in any case, we always speak the truth—in love.

The next item on the menu is respect or praiseworthiness.  Is it honorable?  How would Christ grade that thought?  Not everything that is true needs to be thought about so Paul wants us to think about how Christ or people you love and trust would grade that thought.  What would your spouse or your kids think?  Sometimes gruesome or shameful memories may invade your thoughts.  These must be replaced with the reminder that Christ has dealt with all of these things.

Then, is it fair, equitable, just, or right?  Are you thinking about the situation fairly or is your judgment clouded?  What if this concerned someone you love instead of your “enemy?”  In fact, what if someone thought this way about you?  We must use the same standard for every person.

Is this thought pure?  The Greek word can even mean “holy” in the sense of a thought that God would approve of.  Impure thoughts are generally viewed as lust, but the idea here goes beyond that to thoughts about cheating or revenge for instance.  All of these are foreign to the pure mind.  Stay far away from foul thoughts.

Are your thoughts friendly or loving toward others?  Most translations say “lovely” but the Greek word means “loving toward.”  Is this beneficial to others or harmful?  Is there good intent?

How would others feel about this line of thinking?  Is the activity you are contemplating commendable?

Then, is it virtuous?  In the Roman world, the philosophers often judged the behavior of others against the “personal virtues” which included the following:  piety (meaning respect for Roman society), humor (which included courtesy), mercy, dignity (caring for what society thinks of you), tenacity (perseverance), frugality (not miserly but not wasteful either), gravity (not irresponsible), respectability, cultured, industriousness (not lazy), prudence, cleanliness, self-control,  and truthfulness.  The Scriptures also underscore the value of such virtues especially in Proverbs.  Notice also that these have some correlation with the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5.  In other words, these thoughts that we are to cultivate are the result of God’s work in our minds!

Paul says, think about THESE things.  This is to be our deliberate focus.  It doesn’t happen immediately.  It is a maturing process.  It requires practice.  But these kinds of thoughts running through our minds will do much to adjust our attitudes to be Christlike.

How do thoughts arrive in our minds?  They are mental reasonings which respond to external circumstances as well as to memories and to media such as books, movies, etc.  This is why we must be very careful of the kind of media we expose ourselves to.  Memories are like the groove in a vinyl record that is difficult to erase.  But new memories can replace old ones in time as we practice controlling our thoughts.

Cultivating Proper Actions Philippians 4:9

Now in verse 9, Paul moves from our thoughts to our actions.  He is confident that he would be a good role model to emulate.  What did you learn from Paul?  What did you receive from him?  What did you hear him say?  And finally, what did you see him do?  This is a good way to evaluate any role model whose behavior we wish to copy.

We never met Paul, but we do have some record of the kind of person he was; and the Philippians had spent some time with him in some pretty difficult circumstances and Paul had come out shining.  Paul’s attitude had been exemplary.  He was more concerned about the message of the gospel getting to these people than about his personal rights—just like Jesus—as he mentioned in chapter 2.  This is why we still need godly role models. 

Conclusion

Notice the progression.  Right thoughts precede right actions.  And the result once again is God’s peace. 

In Greek literature, there is a literary device called an inclusio in which similar wording both precedes and follows a section like an envelope. We have here an inclusio in verses 7, 8, and 9.  Notice that Paul starts by talking about the peace that is a result of replacing worry with trust in God.  Then he moves to a discussion of adjustment of our thoughts and our actions.  Then a final reminder that God’s peace comes to those who follow this pattern.

Next time we will look at a final example of how this process worked out for Paul.

© 2019 Eric Thimell

Attitude Adjustments—Philippians 4:1-7

Context

One of the great repeated themes Paul has emphasized in his letter to the Philippians is the need for a proper attitude or mindset which is absolutely essential for living as a citizen of heaven.

In chapter 2 we are encouraged to have the same mindset or attitude that Jesus had when he set His priorities to obey the will of His Father even though it was going to be painful.

 In chapter 3, there are twelve references to our mindset—ten are positive and two are negative.  He talks about rejoicing, and taking careful notice of the evil workers, of exulting in Christ and not resting on past works of religious obligation.  Paul’s highest attitude goal is knowing Christ.  In a negative sense he doesn’t consider himself as perfect – yet.  But, he forgets the past and has this point of view and keeps this goal in mind.  As we walk in the light we have already received he is convinced that God will convict us about the error of any contrary thinking.  We may even be tempted by the wrong thinking of people who are actually enemies of Christ who focus primarily on earthly things.

Motivating a Christlike Attitude Philippians 4:1

Now in chapter 4, Paul continues to underscore his emphasis on how believers ought to think.  In verse 1, the Philippians fill him with joy.  He misses them and thinks of them and their relationship with the Lord.  He encourages them to “stand fast” in the Lord.  His thoughts are filled with concern for other people—especially these believers to whom he brought the gospel.  He calls them His crown because he expects to be rewarded by God for his care for them.  The way we care for others is noticed by God.

Help for Two Bad Attitudes Philippians 4:2-3

Now in verses 2 and 3, Paul mentions two women believers named Euodia (Yoo-oh-dee-uh) and Syntyche (Sin-tick-ee) who were among his early helpers in the ministry at Philippi.  They had worked hard (“struggled”) along with a man by the name of Clement as well as other unnamed co-workers sharing the gospel in Philippi.  Notice that all of these co-workers already have their names in the book of life!  In Revelation 20, the Book of Life and another unnamed set of books recording everyone’s works are opened.  And whoever’s name was “not found written in the book of life, that person was thrown into the lake of fire” (Rev. 20:11-15).  Apparently, the books recording works is used to ensure that justice is served.  Just as there are different rewards in heaven—depending on our works, so are there differing punishments in hell – depending on works.

These workers mentioned here don’t have to wait until the end of their life to examine their works to have assurance of eternal life (like some Bible teachers claim).  But even though they are sure of heaven, Paul wants more out of them.  They have an attitude problem and it is apparently affecting the entire assembly. 

Paul wants them to “agree in the Lord” (or “be of the same mind”).  Notice both of them have a problem.  It isn’t that Euodia needs to come around to Syntyche’s point of view or the other way around.  Both of them need to come around to the Lord’s point of view.  They both need to think more highly of others than themselves.    Some people say this verse means that we shouldn’t proclaim anything that is controversial or “offensive.”  But that’s not Paul’s point at all.  While he wasn’t deliberately offensive or controversial just to assert himself, he never shrank from proclaiming the gospel.  Today some of Paul’s teachings are either mocked or subjected to cultural revisionism. And apparently these women had also boldly proclaimed the same message alongside Paul at one time..  But now there was an attitude issue that had nothing to do with the gospel.  They disagreed about something and neither one would rest until the other one gave in.  Paul doesn’t tell us which one was right, and which one was wrong.  The point was, that they were both wrong in their attitude.  When we disagree with someone, be very careful that we approach the other person with a humble attitude.

So, in verse 3, Paul asks Syzugus (Size-uh-guss) to gently intervene. 

[Note: Many translations take the literal meaning of the name Syzugus (yokefellow, true partner, or true companion) to be a reference to the qualities of some unnamed co-worker.  While this is possible, it seems more likely that this is the actual name of the person he asks to intervene.  (Why would he name the two squabbling women and not name the good interventionist?  Paul loves to acknowledge good behavior.)] 

Paul’s point here is that he wants Syzugus to help these women.  They are believing co-workers that have a blind spot and just need some help seeing how their attitude is unChristlike. This shows us the continuing theme of our need as believers to be continually alert about our attitudes.  Even veteran believers are susceptible and sometimes we need each other’s help.

Focusing Our Joyful Attitude on the Lord Philippians 4:4-5

Where does your joy and contentment come from?  Paul says twice here that it should be in the Lord.  When something good happens, see it as a gift from the Lord.  It would be a mistake to see it as just the result of our hard work.  How is God working in you?  What is He doing through you?  Talk about a rush!  At times, we may be noticed by someone of some public importance.  But, it is far more exciting to think that the Lord saw us and all that we put into it. 

This is not to say that we don’t want any publicity.  Just as Jesus said to “let your light so shine before men that they see your good works and glorify God,” so here Paul says to “let everyone see your gentleness (or “moderation” or “how considerate you are”).”    He adds, “the Lord is near” or “within reach.”  He is not only watching, he wants you to reveal Him to others through your thoughtful behavior.  Once again, we need a transformation in our mind.  This is to glorify the Lord not ourselves.  This requires thoughtful answers when people ask about our behavior.  Speak the truth in love.  Give the glory to God when people happen to notice the good you do.  So, do all in the name of Jesus.  (That will also cut down on the selfish behavior!)

Adjusting an Attitude of Worry Philippians 4:6-7

Now verses 6 and 7 are frequently memorized and quoted as a call to pray about everything instead of worrying.  Jesus pointed out that worrying doesn’t change anything, but God can change everything.  So that’s where we ought to turn when concerns that we can’t handle begin to pile up.  Paul says, “In every situation . . . (tell it) to God.”  This requires a great deal of attitude adjustment—replacing worry with prayer.  Worry, at best, is trying to figure out what I can do instead of seeking God.  When we sense worry creeping in about anything that’s a call to prayer.  If we notice that worry has been building up even though we know we should pray, maybe we just don’t trust God with the answer.

But the result of trusting prayer is that God will give us peace—even when the worst thing we can imagine wants to tear us apart.  This is because prayer is an act of faith and trust in God.  If you don’t feel peace when you have prayed, maybe you don’t believe God heard you, or that God has your best interests at heart.  Just imagine the “worst” (like Paul did in chapter 1)—that we lose our life.  Paul said, “Welp—then I’ll be in heaven with Jesus!”  But then on further consideration of what God might be intending, he believed that God would spare him, so he could further minister to his friends in Philippi and elsewhere around the world.  The prayer of trusting faith results in peace because we have decided to have Jesus’ attitude to follow God’s will instead of mine.  Our mind needs a transformation to be like Christ’s—and that kind of mind is distinguished by humble trust.

Coming next: Cultivating a Peaceful Heart.

© Eric Thimell 2019

Role Models—Philippians 3:17-21

Context

We ended our last study with a look at Christian maturity.  Paul’s view of perfection was that even though he had yet to attain it, he didn’t give up, but he continued to pursue that as a goal—even though he would never attain it before the resurrection.  He viewed perfection as a spiritual goal that he called the “out-resurrection” (the process of being perfected by God’s power outside the resurrection of the righteous at Jesus’ return).

He understood that many of his readers would have a difficult time understanding the pursuit of something unattainable as an absolute, but he wanted them to see that this was what God wanted them to do and would make it plain to them eventually.  Meanwhile, he encouraged them to not give up and to continue to live up to the truth they already understood even if this new idea seemed bewildering.

Following Someone Who is Pursuing God Philippians 3:17

Now, in our text this time, Paul discusses our role model.  In verse 17 he says to imitate (or literally, mimic) me and “those who are living this way” – likely referring to Timothy and Epaphroditus whom he had mentioned at length in chapter 2.  Anyone who is zealous for God and keeps pursuing God (“strive” or “pursue” in Greek, verse 12) should be “watched carefully” (verse 17) so as to copy them.  We have Christ as our ultimate role model, but we need to see that lived out in the flesh.  We need a mentor—someone whose behavior we can mimic in full confidence.  Not perfect (Paul wasn’t, verse 13) but someone who kept picking themselves up and kept following Jesus.  Someone who is answering the “upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (verse 14).

Avoiding Enemies of the Cross Philippians 3:18-19

Now in verse 18, we have a bad example—someone we do NOT want to imitate.  As Paul mentions this, he seems to remember people who had distinctly disappointed him and in thinking about how their lives now displayed a disregard for Christ’s sacrifice for “the sins of the world” it brought him to tears.  He did not for a minute exult in someone’s failure and sin.  He wept as he admitted that such persons had become “the enemies of the cross of Christ.”  What sort of behavior is he talking about?

Verse 19 tells us that their “end is destruction.”  That’s where their path is headed unless they change direction.  Don’t follow such people!  Paul does not distinguish here between carnal Christians and unbelievers because it is possible for a Christian to act just like the world.  The fact that their “end is destruction” tends to cause us to mostly think in terms of lost people who end up in hell, but carnal Christians can certainly find themselves under the judgment of God if they persist in disobedience and rebellion.  In any case, we want to avoid such people—even if we think they might be born again! 

Do we avoid them because they sin?  We all sin!  What, exactly, have they done that causes Paul to avoid them?  “Their god is the belly.”  “Belly” is used in the New Testament to refer to either the stomach and the digestive system or to the womb.  Jonah was in the “belly” of the great fish.  Mary had Jesus in her “belly.”  But it is also used as a figure of speech for the “appetite” as in Romans 16:18 where Paul warns them to avoid people who cause dissension in the church because they are not serving the Lord but their own “belly” or “appetites.”  When an appetite gets out of control it is called “lust.”  The enemies of the cross of Christ are self-centered.  The things they do are not ultimately for others or for Christ but for themselves.  Paul adds that they are deceptive as they even try to get you to copy them.  They use “smooth talk” and “flattery.”  Don’t be naïve and fall for this deception. Avoid people whose primary aim is themselves not God.

Our tendency is to gravitate toward people who tell us what we want to hear.  When they start telling us how wonderful we are and how we “deserve” something (but there is also something in it for them), look out.  It reminds me of the caricature of a “time-share salesman.” 

On the other hand, a good mentor may at times tell you things you might not want to hear but you need to at least consider the warning.  Would you buy a car that didn’t have warning lights or gauges for when the engine overheats, or the gas is running low?  What if it only had smiley emojis that light up no matter what was going on?  Such a vehicle would be downright dangerous!

Now back to Philippians 3:19. These enemies of the cross of Christ are also said to “exult in their shame.” They take pride in things they should actually be ashamed of! And their minds are set on “earthly things.”  Paul is not condemning thinking meal preparation, cleaning out the garage, or doing your job at work—even those might not appear to be “heavenly things.”  We are to be “in the world” but not “of the world” (1 Corinthians 5:9-11). 

We are just travelling through and (as he says in verse 20) we are actually citizens of heaven.  Our ultimate aim is to be at home with the Lord but meanwhile we strive to please Him where we are.  Bad examples will try to distract us with “shiny objects” here in this temporary home.  But as we consider Paul’s words we realize such distractions aren’t really harmless.  They are trappings of those who are the enemies of the cross of Christ.

We Await a Savior from Heaven Philippians 3:20-21

But, we follow good examples, like Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus who are waiting a Savior from heaven—Jesus Christ.  (Anything that takes His place is – an idol.)  When Jesus returns, we who await Him, will be transformed (literally “to change the appearance”) to be like Jesus.  We will have glorified bodies like His.  The same power that He will use to cause every knee to bow and every tongue confess His Lordship will be used to change us to be like Him.

What a goal to be like Him.  What an “upward call.”  So that’s why we strive to be like Him even though we are presently struggling with all our might just to stand upright. 

When our POWs returned from Hanoi in 1973, I watched them ride the busses from the flight line to the base hospital at Clark Air Base in the Philippines.  They were still in their POW clothing, but their heads were held high and they saluted as if they had been doing it every day for the last seven years!  One ex-POW was waving a little homemade American flag.  They had been striving to live up to the image of an American warfighter even though they had been temporarily housed in the Hanoi Hilton.  How they looked forward to getting some chow, a hot shower and a brand-new uniform!  And we who watched them exulted in their homecoming with them.

Our example to follow is Christ and those who have set their mind on following His example.  One day, we will be expatriated from this planet and see Him with new eyes.  The struggle will all be forgotten.  In the meanwhile, don’t give up!

© 2019 Eric Thimell

Experiencing Jesus' Attitude—Philippians 3:10-16

So far in our study of Philippians chapter 2 and 3 we have been invited by Paul to examine the example of Christ beginning with His attitude.  He was willing to humble himself and serve those whom He created despite the suffering and death that he had to experience along the way. We saw that His death and resurrection enabled Him to give us eternal life and rescue us from the penalty of sin by believing in Him and now we are to live for Him as citizens of heaven. 

But there is a fallible human tendency to conclude that our works make us righteous.  And some have even felt we should try to keep the Law since it was commanded by God at one point.  Paul reminds them of his own history of following the Law and how none of it made Him righteous.    In other places, he points out that if we fail to keep the Law in just one point we have failed already (e.g. Galatians 3:10; James 2:10).  (Besides, if we could make ourselves righteous, what need do we have for the death of Christ!)

So, Paul regarded his former law-keeping as so much manure to gain a far better outcome guaranteed by Christ’s death and resurrection in our place.  And he encouraged the believers to exult in this knowledge that they had the righteousness of Christ because they were in Christ.

A New Life Purpose Philippians 3:10

But aren’t we supposed to do something?  In verse 10, Paul gives us his goal.  It is to know Christ.  In verse 8, he already mentioned knowing Christ Jesus as a far greater value than any personal abilities or attainments. Now he expands this “knowing” so we can see that it is far more than a set of facts to be memorized.  Here he calls it “experiencing” the power of His resurrection and it is also “sharing” in His sufferings and “becoming like Him” in His death.  It is not just a fascination with pain and suffering. There was pain from beatings and nails and spears, but Jesus had a purpose and an attitude behind it that Paul wanted to experience. Paul wants to immerse himself in the experience of the One Who gave Himself for us.  It is a very different kind of life purpose that is willing to spend a life for others.

Those who have eternal life should take up this new eternal perspective.  While our works can never begin to pay for eternal life, yet Christ calls us to live with this new purpose and attitude according to His example. 

His suffering was the means by which Jesus could provide us His righteousness – not for Himself but for us.  This is what it means to say that Christ died for us.  His suffering was far more than just His death on the cross although that was the final blow.  As Paul has just recounted in chapter 2 in the Carmen Christi, Jesus suffered throughout His entire humiliating earthly experience.  And now Paul wants to “share” or “partake” in these sufferings.  (KJV calls it “the fellowship” of His sufferings).  This is indeed an invitation to entering into a rather painful sounding experience of suffering and death.  But notice that the experience also includes His resurrection.

Suffering and death were elements of the curse of sin as described in Genesis.  But resurrection seems to be a reversal of the curse.  Suffering and death can be either the end or, by faith, a new beginning.  So, Paul says this resurrection has become his new goal even though the path may lead through suffering and death.  But notice that he is not just looking for the end of pain and suffering in the resurrection of the righteous someday, but it is something he is striving for right now!  It is a striving to live up to the righteousness that Christ has already put on his account.

Reaching for the Out-Resurrection Philippians 3:11

In verse 11, Paul adds a note of contingency.  “If by any means” or “and so, somehow” are how some translations word it.  Because He is now talking about something we strongly desire to attain, there is a possibility we might not do as well as we would like.  In fact, there is a distinct possibility we might fail in this endeavor that most translations call the “resurrection from the dead.” 

But, how can a Christian fail to take part in the resurrection of the righteous?  Notice that this resurrection here seems to be looked for in this life!  In Greek, this word usually translated “resurrection” is only used one time in the entire Bible—right here.  It is not our normal word for resurrection.  There is something unique and different about this.  A very literal translation would be something like the “out-resurrection out of the dead.”  And, based on what this “out-resurrection” actually does, according to the next few verses, it seems more likely that it is referring to something that we desire to happen in this life—before our physical death.  How can you have a resurrection without dying?

Paul is not dead yet but hopes to attain the “out-resurrection” in this life.  So, it is not a physical resurrection but a “spiritual resurrection.” Paul wants to experience now the attitude of Christ that we will all eventually experience in the resurrection of the righteous when Christ returns. Paul wants us now—together with God – to cooperate with Him – in a new life experience. 

We have to plan for it, strive for it and count on God’s help for it.  Since it is something we work at, and based on the next few verses, it is a transformation in our attitude.  Our old attitude needs to die and a new one needs to arise.  It is a different kind of resurrection he has in view.

Striving for Transformation Philippians 3:12-13

In verses 12-13 Paul notes he has not yet attained this goal—not perfectly.  That’s why he calls it “being perfected.”  By seeking to know Christ and to share in His willingness to obey the Father and spend His life for others at all costs, he is striving to measure up to the righteousness Christ has already attained for us. 

How does knowing Christ and His sufferings help us to measure up?  I already have eternal life by believing in Jesus’ promise to give it to me based on His righteousness.  Knowing the suffering He did on my behalf helps me to understand the kind of attitude I need to have to live up to this righteousness.

Paul pointedly says he has not yet attained perfection.  He still fails to live completely up to the standard Christ has put on our account.  But he doesn’t give up.  He tries all the harder as if he can actually attain this standard “somehow” because that is Jesus’ ultimate goal for us—to be like Him.  Therefore, he realizes that all His past attainments will never measure up.  And pointing out this lack in his own life should be an encouragement to his readers who might naively believe that someone might actually attain this perfection in this life.  But it is NOT naïve to strive toward that end.  That is transformation.

The Upward Call of God Philippians 3:14

So, in verse 14, this remains his goal knowing that “the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” is to lay hold of this spiritual resurrection now and looking forward to our own resurrection someday which offers a reward to believers “according to their works” (I Cor 3).  Rewards are something more than just eternal life.  They are given for our faithful works done in the attitude of Jesus’ own life!

Maturity Entails Striving for Christlikeness Philippians 3:15

Now, in verse 15, Paul says that understanding and living this way requires a “mature” or “perfect” faith.  Some will wrongly say, it isn’t possible so why try or, on the other hand, others will wrongly say that they have reached perfection.  Paul acknowledges that this is a point of view that not all believers will share but God will reveal their need for change even if they aren’t ready to hear it now.   It’s something that requires a desire for spiritual growth.  We must cooperate with God.  Not all Christians want to grow up.  They want to stay in Never-Land.

Live Up to What You Understand Philippians 3:16

Finally, in verse 16, whether we embrace this need for all of us to strive to be like Christ in order to please Him, we all should live up to what we do understand to the best of our ability.

© 2019 Eric Thimell

Exulting "in the Lord" — Philippians 3:1-9

Background Notes

Exultation and joy in the Lord are repeated themes in Philippians.  In our last section it was an appropriate response to difficulties as an underscore to our message of good news while “walking the talk.” We are to exult even in difficult situations because the Lord uses our joyful response to make us shine in the dark world we temporarily live in.

Joy Sees the Hand of God in Trying Circumstances Philippians 3:1

In 3:1 Paul points out that we are to rejoice in the Lord.  Notice that this attitude of rejoicing is a safety device for them as well.  Instead of despairing and abandoning their faith they are to recognize the hand of the Lord in the most trying of circumstances.  The focus is not on the circumstance but on the Lord’s provision.

Pointing Out Posers Philippians 3:2

In 3:2 they are to “beware” of certain opponents.  They are not to fear them but are to notice them.  The word “beware” is an ordinary word that usually means to “see.”  But it can also mean to point out, to look at, or to watch.  Most translations take their cue from the context to add the nuance of caution because these are people who counterfeit the work of God with their own fakes.  So, they are posers that must be pointed out. What do they look like?  In Philippi, there were three signs Paul pointed out.

First, they are tagged idiomatically as “dogs.”  This is not permission to call people who oppose the message of the Bible dogs! The New Testament term “dogs” was a common cultural metaphor in those days for someone who was part of the local scene but was really an outsider.  Not because they were poor or homeless or even a leper but because they weren’t part of the religious community.  For the Jewish community it referred to Gentiles.  For Christians, it referred to unbelievers.  Notice that dogs wanted to live in the house, eat at the table with everyone else and sleep with their owners if they were allowed but they were not people.  They could eat the crumbs that fell from the table, but they didn’t get a place at the table.  We are to look out for people who are brought into the church and given a voice there but are not really believers.  We don’t ban them or abuse them, but we are very careful when listening to their advice.

So “dogs” here seems to be a general term that indicates someone who is not from the community of faith but hangs around.  But how do you identify people who aren’t really believers?  In Matthew 7, Jesus said we recognize false teachers by their fruit.  And in the same passage, Jesus said that the false teachers were “wolves in sheep’s clothing.”  They acted like sheep.  They dressed like sheep.  So, “fruit” doesn’t mean their deeds or their works so much as their words that give them away.  Their fruit was in their message.

In 3:2 they are further tagged as “evil workers” or “evil teachers.”  Their message—their fruit—was evil.  So, it is a counterfeit message.  They dress like sheep and act like sheep but they are not teaching the Word.  And their result (if not their intent) is evil.  I suppose they might have even fooled themselves into thinking that their teaching was true and good.  Paul was once like that before he met the Messiah.  They may well be victims of other false or evil teachers themselves. Notice Paul does not say these are your enemies but rather these are purveyors of something evil.  Look out for what they want to serve you.

The third tag in 3:2 is literally “the concision” or “those who mutilate the flesh.”  This is a mocking reference to a botched circumcision.  In Jewish religion the boys were circumcised on the eighth day by a trained “mohel” (pronounced “moil”).  Circumcision was instituted in God’s covenant with Abraham.  This physical sign was evidence of participation in the Abrahamic covenant and was given to the Jewish nation.  Jesus, too, was circumcised properly to fulfill the Jewish Law (Luke 2).  Matthew 5 tells us that the Law was fulfilled in Jesus.  But some Jewish Christians traveled about telling Gentile believers that they also needed to be circumcised in order to become a Christian.  That was a misunderstanding of the purpose of circumcision and of the gospel message of grace (Titus 3:5).  In Acts 15, the apostles gathered together in Jerusalem and put that phony issue to rest once and for all.  But Gentiles are to be careful not to deliberately offend their Jewish neighbors who may be fellow believers, although they do not need to become Jews in order to be saved.  But that didn’t stop the traveling teachers (sometimes called Judaizers) from setting up circumcision tents and trying to get the Gentiles to submit to their teaching.

Paul called on the Philippian believers to beware of these Judaizers that he calls the Concision—the failed circumcision.  Look out for them. Why was it so dangerous?

Old Covenant Circumcision Has Been Replaced Philippians 3:3-6

In verse 3, Paul lays out his inspired comeback to these false messages.  We are the “true circumcision” because we worship God in the Spirit and exult or rejoice in Jesus and we don’t need any physical or fleshly credentials.  The Spirit of God has replaced old Jewish credentials.  This reference to worshipping God in the Spirit was first mentioned in Jesus’ conversation with the woman at the well in John 4.  He told her that God is seeking those who will worship Him in Spirit and in truth rather than a reliance on Samaritan or Jewish rituals.  No longer do we have to be in a specific sacred building to be in contact with God.  Rituals do not substitute for what Christ has already accomplished.

Having the Spirit of God dwelling in us and energizing our worship of the Father is not necessarily an outward spectacle.  But it is something that God sees, and He knows what is in our heart as we submit to Him and adore Him.  Worshiping in the Spirit is something meant for God to see and enjoy.  We don’t need stained glass, or rituals, or sacred music to worship.

At this point Paul goes into a lengthy sidebar of all those Jewish credentials that he has.  According to the credentials, he outranks all of these traveling teachers and fake mohels. 

Counting Old Covenant Credentials as a Liability Philippians 3:7-9

But he has learned that all of that religious cred is a big fat liability where the Lord is concerned.  It is too easy to think of our access to God as relying on things we have done instead of what Christ has completed on our behalf.  Whatever seems to be a religious plus as far as things I have done (Christian privilege?), Paul calls it “dung.”  In Greek it was not just a word for trash, but it was chosen for its barnyard shock value.  That’s all the physical human body produces—excrement.  It may have some value in this world—but he counts it as dung as far as eternity and spiritual value is concerned.

Why? In verse 9 he says he wants to be sure that his trust or reliance is totally on Christ and the righteousness He provides and nothing else.  Our own righteousness may have some value in this life.  But Paul says that our standing before God must be presented to the world not as the good deeds we have done, but as the result of the faithfulness of Christ who died in our place and His own righteousness was put on our account. 

The Philippians had none of Paul’s Jewish cred.  So, Paul counted it as a liability lest they substitute anything else for Christ.  This is why we exult in the Lord—not in our own actions.

Next time we will examine our response to Christ’s faithfulness.

© 2018 Eric Thimell

Workers or Shirkers? Philippians 2:16-30

In our last study in Philippians 2:14, Paul exhorted the Philippians to not grumble and complain about the difficulties they encounter as believers because the way they respond to these unpleasant experiences is seen by those around them as part of the message they claim to bear.  Just as Christ did not complain about His mistreatment, neither should we. Now, in the remainder of chapter 2, Paul shows how a proper response to persecution will be unfeigned joy in anticipating the Lord’s approval and he then points to two examples of hard workers that they know well—men who work sacrificially and do not shirk or complain.

Philippians 2:16-18 Exultation in a Life Well-Spent

The word frequently translated here as “holding on” or “holding forth” might also be rendered as “heeding” or “focusing on.” The Word of Life that they “hold forth” is something that they both “heed” and point out.  They are to “walk the talk.”  They demonstrate the Word both by speaking it and by living it.  If they believe it is good news, then they should not be grumbling about how difficult it is to share but exulting in it. When we experience pushback either for our walk or our talk that’s when we realize that our enemy is upset at the good news being proclaimed. That’s how we shine as lights in the (dark) world (vs. 15). 

The result of living a life according to the Living Word is that on the “Day of Christ” they (and we) will exult that such a life of sacrifice was not done in vain.  The word picture used here is one of Paul’s favorites—a runner in the Isthmian Games (the forerunner to the Olympics) realizes his years of grueling preparation and the difficult effort of running the race have paid off.  This is not a reference to “winning salvation” or “entering heaven” but to hearing the “well-done” for a life well-lived in obedience to Christ.  This “Day of Christ” here refers to the “judgment seat of Christ” (1 Cor 3:14; 2 Cor 5:10) not the “great white throne” of Revelation 20.  The former has the works of believers and their rewards in view.  The latter has the works of unbelievers and their status in the book of life in view. 

So, in verse 17, Paul is not at all worried about possibly losing his life in his efforts.  He considers his life to be a sacrifice offered to God in order to encourage his Philippian teammates in their own race.  This sacrificial team effort will result in exultation for them all.  This is Paul’s literary “high-five.” The word picture here is of Paul’s life being like a drink offering (a libation) being poured out and accompanied by the worshipful service of the Philippians’ own faith being lived out.  This parallels Paul’s words to the Romans in 12:1 “Therefore, I exhort you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a sacrifice—alive, holy, and pleasing to God—which is your reasonable service (of worship)” (NET).  We are to be careful to live our lives as if they were a sacrifice to God—except we are alive. Verse 18 once again has this theme of shared joy in this anticipation of the Lord’s approval of our team effort on the Day of Christ.  That little window of time allotted to each of us should be spent in the service of others and for our Lord.  There are great rewards in the life to come at stake.

This Biblical theme of service for the Lord is hardly ever spoken of as an individual effort—though sometimes it may seem like it (think Elijah).  It is almost always viewed as a team effort.  It is supposed to be the entire Body of Christ using their various gifts in service to the Head.  But so often many of the members have checked out and sit on the sidelines content to watch or to work all by themselves.  Very few are gifted to be able to do full-orbed ministry. We need each other. That’s why there are so many “one another” passages in the New Testament. At the Day of Christ this will all be made plain.

Philippians 2:19-24 Timothy’s Service for Christ

In these next verses, Paul finally comes around to answering one of the requests that the Philippians had made of him in their letter.  They had experienced the godly care of this young man Timothy when Paul had first visited Philippi with Silas and Luke (Acts 16).  Timothy and Luke apparently stayed on with them for a time while Paul and Silas went on to Thessalonica and Berea where they eventually rejoined Paul.  Now, some years later, the Philippian pulpit committee wants Timothy back.

So, Paul subtly gets around to their request and points out all of Timothy’s fine qualities and his resultant value to Paul’s ministry.  In so doing, he uses Timothy as a model of what he wants to see in every believer.  Timothy is not only concerned for the Philippians, but Paul knows that he would actually demonstrate his concern in a tangible way.  However, Paul’s willingness to send Timothy is dependent on what Christ wants.  Although he sees Timothy’s value to him in Rome, he knows that Timothy would be able to minister successfully in Philippi and then return with a good report.  But what does the Lord want?

Verse 21 contains a Hebrew figure of speech in which exaggeration is used to highlight an important point.  He says, “There is no one like him here.”  And in verse 22, “Others are busy with their own concerns, not those of Jesus Christ.”  For Paul, Timothy was the model, par excellence, of a believer who put others’ interests first as Jesus commanded.  It is not at all a reflection on Epaphroditus, who he will brag about next. But it reflects his own desire for the Philippians back in verse 2:4 to be more concerned for others. Timothy would be a great teacher by example in this area. What are we “busy with?” Our own interests or those of Jesus? 

In verses 22-24, Paul spells out Timothy’s qualifications.  He had worked alongside Paul (like a father and son team) for the advancement of the gospel.  So, Paul hoped to be able to send Timothy but was waiting until he understood what the situation in Rome needed.  Ultimately, he hoped to be able to come to Philippi himself and Timothy would be a great help to him in the journey as well as in his current needs as a prisoner of Rome.  So, Timothy was a “no go” for now.

Philippians 2:25-30 Epaphroditus—a Soldier of Christ

In verse 25, Paul tells them that because they needed immediate help, he was going to send good old Epaphroditus (the same person elsewhere called Epaphras) back to them.  He was the bearer (and likely the amanuensis) of both letters.  The Philippians knew him well.  And Paul’s own praise for him shows that he was also well able to care for this church in the meantime.  Paul not only calls him a brother but a coworker and fellow soldier.  They had campaigned together against physical and spiritual barriers.  He had also served Paul in attending to his needs in prison.

In verses 26 and 27, we notice that Epaphroditus had gotten deathly ill and the Philippians had heard about it and were extremely worried.  Perhaps they were also concerned that no one would come back to minister to them.  But Paul tells them that Epaphroditus was well now due to God’s mercy.  Even Paul had been greatly concerned for him.  It is possible that Paul may have worked a miracle of healing but notice that Epaphroditus may have been sick for a season – long enough for word to reach the Philippians and notice Paul’s worry as well.  So, it seems most likely that he recovered gradually in answer to prayer.  Still a healing but most likely not an instantaneous one.

Then in verse 28, Paul indicates that he is sending Epaphroditus to Philippi bearing this letter.  His hope was that he would be able to minister to them as a replacement for Timothy and eventually bring back good news of their situation. Paul would be sorrowful about losing him but happy that he was helping this young church.

In verses 29-30, he instructed them to receive Epaphroditus (instead of Timothy) as coming from the Lord.  They were to see this as a glad answer to prayer.  And, in fact, they should receive all such traveling ministers with honor.  The word for honor is more than verbal respect but also refers to value and the responsibility to care for someone. (Elsewhere “honor your parents” means to make sure they are cared for not just respected with your lips). So, in light of verse 30, they should minister to his needs since they were unable to provide for Paul.  (This was one of the points of lament in their letter).  Epaphroditus had risked his life for them and the cause of Christ and in so doing had also ministered to Paul.  (And in the process had also fallen deathly ill).

As a church which had given sacrificially to Paul’s ministry, Paul wants them to also give toward the ministry of Epaphroditus who had served them—and as verse 29 says, “honor people like him.”  See that he has the funds he needs to live on.  Take care of his physical needs.  This, too, is sacrificial ministry that brings ultimate joy—both the anticipation and the “well-done” at the Day of Christ.

© Eric Thimell 2018