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Expanded Comments |
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| 1 Therefore, my brethren, dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. |
Therefore – In consideration of this coming change from a condition of degradation to glory. R366:6
My joy and crown – The Apostle addressed the Philippian church with affection. R4827:2, R1703:2
A close and dear relationship--these words are fragrant with the very essence of Christian love and fellowship. R3127:3
Stand fast – They had reached a considerable attainment in the graces of the spirit--they must needs be tested, however. R3127:3
In the Lord – Trusting in his power, in his grace. R3127:5
No one can stand in his own strength. R90:1
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| 2 I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. |
Euodias, and beseech Syntyche – Two sisters of this congregation who appear to have been prominent helpers in the work. R3127:5
Of the same mind – Implies that in some respects these two were at variance. R3127:5
In the Lord – Preserve a unity of heart and head in all things relating to the Lord and his cause, not necessarily in everything else. R3127:5
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| 3 And I entreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life. |
And I entreat thee – The apostles issued neither bulls nor anathemas. F232
There are times when it is appropriate to introduce brethren and commend them to others. R1721:4, R1707:2
Yokefellow – Apparently the proper name of a brother in the Philippian church. R3127:6
Dear "Yoke-fellows" in foreign lands and pilgrims and colporteurs, we offer our cooperation as we see the harvest work, and that the time is short. Let us draw closer, and pray and assist one another. R3288:6
Help those women – Over their difficulties--helping them to preserve the unity of the spirit. R3128:1
Paul mentioned with evident appreciation the activity of certain females in the early church. R1549:3, R1076:5*, R766:5*, R227:3
Which laboured – Women did a work which was approved and appreciated. R227:3, R1076:5*, R766:5*
Fellowlabourers – Who supported his work by their influence and by their means. R3152:3
The book of life – Christ and the apostles rebuked sectarianism and declared it an evidence of carnality. The church which they loved was the one Church whose names are written, not on earthly scrolls, but in heaven. R1309:2
Those who secure the divine favor have their names written in God's remembrance, the "book of life," as his friends. They enjoy his love and his blessing. NS69:1
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| 4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. |
Rejoice – The Christian's life is not a sad or morose one, but a most joyful one. He can even be joyful in tribulation. R4592:4, R3305:6; NS633:5, Q613:2
To the true followers the light of the Lord's kindness shines through all earth-born clouds and troubles to bring joy and peace and blessing. R3305:6
In serenity, happiness, peace, pleasure of soul, not necessarily with noisy demonstration. R3128:2
While the flesh suffers, the spirit should rejoice--we rejoice because God's favor and blessing are with us as New Creatures. Q613:2, Q579:6
The exultant songs of the prophets and the apostles sounded through trials, difficulties, and persecutions. They were joyful in the house of their pilgrimage, and a note of triumph is found in their messages. NS633:5
We are anointed with God's holy spirit, the spirit of gladness, the spirit of joy, which drives away much of the spirit of mourning--not only in the blessings that are ours, but in tribulations also. NS224:1
Alway – The only ones who can rejoice alway are those who are living very near to the Lord. R3128:2
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| 5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. |
Let your moderation – Reasonableness, gentleness--the spirit of a sound mind, of gentleness, meekness. This attitude of mind comes in large measure as a result of knowledge of God and his plans. R5840:3, R3306:2
Surely there never was a time when this counsel was so much needed as now! The very air seems charged with some exciting, nervous force. R5249:2, R2460:5
Let the fact that we know only in part and understand only in part keep us humble and moderate in word and deed and thought. R5249:6
The promises made to us tend to make us sober--the truth is a restraining influence. R5099:2
Temperance, self-control--let men see by our thoughtful (not rash and hasty), careful and considerate demeanor in every affair of life, that we honor our profession. R4809:1, R2460:4
If we feel the leader of a meeting is not following the best Scriptural course, we must show moderation in our approach-- approving what we can, objecting in kindness, meekness, and brotherly love. R3866:2
The Greek seems to carry the thought of reasonableness, of not exacting our rights too rigorously--mercy and leniency. R3128:2
Keep yourselves well in hand, subject and obedient to the will of God. 2 Tim. 3:3 warns against incontinence in the last days--lacking self-control, led of passion, rash, impulsive. R2460:4
As you make decisions in your consecrated life, such as baptism, who should baptize you, where you should be baptized. R396:5
We are all in danger of going to extremes--immoderate statements may arouse a spirit of antagonism. CR415:4
Moderation in balance of thought, in word, in action; probably considered extremists in our faithfulness to the Word and to our covenant of self-sacrifice--as Jesus and the apostles were. HG447:4
While wars are maneuvered by selfish, depraved minds, the Christian must use the wisdom from above, rejecting the greed and aggressiveness of nations, trusting God's promises to bless in his due time. NS132:5
Be known – Even in discussing the time of trouble, emphasis should be laid upon the glorious Kingdom which will be inaugurated. R5716:4
In faith and conduct in all matters--including chronological forecasts of the future. We should be using the knowledge we possess, doing with our might what our hands find to do. R5249:3
In eating, drinking, clothing, pleasure, sorrow. R3455:1, R4808:6
Be specially on guard that the influence of every word and act should be in accord with law, order and peace--"live peaceably with all men." (Rom. 12:18)-"In your patience possess ye your souls." (Luke 21:19) R3242:2
The Lord's Word counsels the wisdom of moderation; let us not suffer because we do not heed this counsel. R2493:3
Unto all men – Would begin at home--more particularly in the Church--but should be manifested toward all with whom we have dealings. R5840:6
The Lord is at hand – Messiah's Kingdom is shortly to be established--this should help the Lord's people in living an exemplary life. R5840:6
This clause implies the exhortation belongs specially to the closing of this Gospel age--to the opening of the new dispensation. R5249:1
We are expecting great changes soon and can well afford to be generous and liberal in our sentiments toward others. R3128:3
The doctrine of the second advent is the motive for moderation in all things, patient waiting, divine hope, and heavenly-mindedness. R298:2*
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| 6 Be anxious for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. |
Be careful for nothing – Be not over-anxious--an anxiety which would rob the soul of rest and peace, and would indicate a lack of faith. R5874:6
"Take no thought" (Luke 12:22; Matt. 6:25-34)--be not anxious, burdened, full of care. R3128:4
"Be not anxious about anything." (Diaglott) R1046:4*
Be worried, harassed and overcharged on no account. R874:5
Critics assail the Scriptures as being opposed to progress; but there is a difference between Christian contentment (based on godliness) and worldly contentment (slothfulness, love of ease, selfishness). NS63:2
But in every thing – In today's household or business cares, in the guidance of wayward children, in the pinch of poverty; all of earth's trials and cares; its wants and woes; its disappointments, calamities, failures, etc. R1865:5,6
By prayer – Communion with God is a great privilege and an evidence of his favor. R4983:1
Acknowledging our own lack of wisdom. R3128:5
And supplication – Supplicating his promised providential care. R3128:5
Earnest pleading. R1865:5
With thanksgiving – "Continue in prayer; watch in the same with thanksgiving." "Offer the sacrifice of praise to God, giving thanks to his name." "I will offer the sacrifice of thanksgiving." "Magnify him with thanksgiving." R5381:4
The thankful heart will conclude that he who favored and redeemed us will much more favor and do for us now we are his. R3128:6
Requests – "Petitions." (Diaglott) R1046:4*
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| 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. |
And – If we have the spirit of rejoicing and trust, and make our requests in harmony with his promise, and accept with gratitude and thanksgiving whatever his providence may send, then the peace of God comes to us. R3128:6
The peace of God – This peace depends to a considerable extent upon one's clear understanding of what is meant by the witness of the Holy Spirit. E226
Not the peace of the flesh, but the peace of heart. F602
This peace should have such control of all who would represent the Lord that a hallowed influence would go with them. R5980:2
This peace can come only to those who have given themselves unreservedly to God. It is the direct result of a close personal relationship of the soul with God. R5432:1, NS66:5
A peace which none of the changes and vicissitudes of this life can take and which enemies are powerless to touch. With it we can endure all things which the Father's loving providence shall permit. R5432:4, R5879:2
This peace can look up through its tears with joyful expectancy for the glorious fruition of our hopes. R5432:6, NS435:3
The rule of this peace in their hearts is one of the grand blessings enjoyed by the embryo Kingdom class. R5097:4; HG720:3
The perfected peace imparted by the holy Spirit, which results from a full consecration to the will of God. R4901:2, R4579:3; NS66:5
Not our own peace, but the peace of God, the peace which comes through a realization of God's power, his goodness and willingness to hold us by his right hand as his children. R4898:2, R3128:6
Peace centered in God, by faith. R4818:2
God's peace reigning in a heart would control ambitions and energies. R3306:3
A peace which springs from God's inherent wisdom and power. A peace that coexists with much disorder and trouble. R1833:1,4
Peace is defined to be a state of quiet or tranquility, freedom from disturbance or agitation, calmness, repose. R1832:3
Our Lord spoke gracious words, the apostles did not preach fear; we, too, should spread the Gospel of peace, glorifying the Father and blessing our fellow man. R1502:4
It seems peculiar to those asleep in Zion that a man would leave the pastorate of a church, and search from denomination to denomination for truth, but the Lord guides such a one and gives him peace. R1237:6*
Also, our Master said, "My peace I give unto you!" While temptations and "fiery trials" are permitted to develop our character, we are offered peace in our hearts and grace sufficient. NS597:1, NS66:, 5
A rest from the worrying cares common to the world, often bringing a measure of health as faith in Christ removes anxiety. HG720:3
Many know an outward peace when all is favorable, yet an inward unrest and unhappiness; but the peace of God can be maintained through outward disturbances, conflicts, and distresses. NS594:4
This peace rules in the hearts of the "brethren"; it is not a transient guest. We must continue to cultivate it, but we leave all to the Master, with hope and sympathy for the world. NS525:1, NS435:3
"There is no peace unto the wicked," Isa. 48:22. "The wicked are like the troubled sea when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt," Isa.57:20. Neither can the ignorant have the peace of God. NS524:2
Fearsome teachings of eternal torment or esthetic, hollow formalities are offered in churches, so that discontented, nervous, worried congregations know "a famine for the hearing the words of the Lord." NS522:4
"Man cannot live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." (Matt. 4:4) For this reason, man's prosperity has not brought peace and his more humble, godly ancestors had greater peace. NS521:3
Enjoying God's peace and favor and glorious hopes, the Lord's people will communicate them to all, with zeal in the service of the Lord. NS67:6
This peaceful condition is to be the rule; anything else is to be the exception and more and more the rare exception. NS66:5
Which passeth all understanding – All human understanding. R5591:3; NS594:5
All worldly understanding. R1652:3
"Which surpasses all conception." (Diaglott) R1046:4*
It is a rest of heart by faith. In this peace lies a satisfaction for all the various qualities of the mind which none can comprehend save those who possess it. R4818:2, R1652:3
Even those who possess the peace can with difficulty understand, fully comprehend the philosophy of it, so contrary is it at times with the outward experiences upon which human peace generally depends. NS594:5, NS24:6
God's dealing with us, and also the love of God, "passeth all understanding." R4972:3
Shall keep – From worry, anxiety, etc. R3129:1
"Shall guard." (Diaglott) R1046:4*, R3306:3
Your hearts – Peace promised the Christian is to rule and keep his heart, not applying to its outward life. "In the world ye shall have tribulation" (John 16:33), but in me ye shall have peace (in your hearts). R1652:3
The Lord's people should enjoy the Lord, rest their hearts with contentment on him, study and rejoice in the glorious "things which God hath in reservation for them that love him." NS67:6
And – The Apostle differentiates between the mind and the heart. The heart represents the affections. Not only should we have good feelings, but our minds should be at rest. R4898:1
Minds – Thoughts. R3305:6, R3306:3
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee." (Isa. 26:3) God gives quietness. We have a refuge which none but his own can know. No harm can reach us. R5879:4
This peace stands guard continually to challenge every hostile or worrying thought or fear. It keeps the Christian's mind, so that he at heart has peace with the Lord, fellowship, communion. R3129:1, R4898:4
Through Christ Jesus – Suggests that, as we entered into this peace through our great Advocate, so we can continue in this peace only by his continuing to be our Advocate. R4898:4
His worthiness, his sacrifice, his aid. R3129:1
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| 8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. |
Finally brethren – This lesson is not specially applicable to any but the most advanced Christians--those who are seeking to perfect holiness. R2891:2; SM256:T, NS638:2
The Apostle sums up this advanced position of grace as the finality or finish of the argument, and of the process of character-development. R2891:3
If the begetting to the new nature, the heavenly nature, is in us, there should be correspondingly an interest in and a longing for the heavenly things, the higher things, the things above. NS638:2
Things are true – The truth of a thing is but one of the tests to which we should subject every matter. R4827:2, R2891:4
Is this true, or is it false? is the first question to be asked in the consideration of any matter. Love for the truth lies at the very foundation of a righteous life. R4827:2, R3306:5, R2891:3; NS638:3
"Thou desirest truth in the inward parts." (Psa. 51:6) R3306:5
Whoever sympathizes with falsehood or exaggeration is more or less defiling himself. R3129:2
God's Word of law, prophecy, precept and promise, and the open book of nature. R1703:6; NS638:2
If we be without love for righteousness and truth and without hatred of iniquity, it would be a sure evidence that we were not new creatures at all, that we were not risen with Christ. NS638:3
Excludes: indulgence in visionary and foolish fiction, all idle speculative theories of men, vain philosophies of the creeds of "Christendom," all idle gossip and evil surmisings. R1703:5, R3306:5
Things are honest – There are many things that are true, yet dishonorable, not worthy of our thoughts--such as the errors, follies, of our neighbors, our brethren. R4827:3, R2891:4
The test of honor is to be applied after the test of truth. The thing might be true, but is it honorable? R3129:2
Honorable, noble. R3129:2, R3306:5
Excludes: all deceit and hypocrisy, all evil scheming and intrigue, thoughts of deliberate plunder, falsehood, evil speaking. R1703:6
Things are just – That which is just is that which is right. Justice and righteousness are synonymous terms. R4827:3
The Golden Rule is not the rule of love, but of justice. We have no right to do unto others anything that we would not that they should do to us. R4827:3
No one can cultivate justice until he gets some appreciation of what it is. This necessary knowledge is obtained through the Scriptures. R4827:4
The injustices practiced about us and elsewhere should not be the subject of our general thoughts. R4827:4, R2891:5
Things might be true and honorable, yet not be just or equitable to others. Such must not be entertained, but must be repelled. R3306:6
We are to apply this test of justice to every thought and word and act. R3129:2
No vain philosophy of men which suggests another scheme of salvation can claim the attention of those whose habit of thought is just and to whom the divine plan has been revealed. R1704:1
This would discard all unjust weights and balances in estimating the character and motives of our fellow-men. R1703:6
Things are pure – Not sensual, not selfish. R5908:6; Q643:8
We are to love that which is pure to such an extent that that which is impure will become painful to us, distressing. R4828:2, R3129:3, R1704:1; NS638:3
We should consider, first, the nature of the thoughts; second, their influence upon others. They should not excite others to impurity. R4827:6
We can overcome evil surmisings and evil speaking by purifying the heart, by prayer, and by keeping the mind filled with holy thoughts. R3783:6
Pure body, clean clothing; pure, good society pure literature and art. Vile insinuation, rude jest, unchaste art, are an abomination. R1704:1
The Apostle urges pure love among the saints, and the conduct consistent with trust in God "abhor evil, cleave to the good," "abstain from the appearance of evil," even think on the "pure." R1586:6; NS638:3
Whoever maintains purity of thought will have comparatively little effort in maintaining purity of word and of action. R2891:6
The new creature will disesteem more and more whatsoever things are vile, impure, ignoble, slanderous, and all evil speaking. By our progress along these lines, we may evaluate our resurrection progress. NS638:3
Things are lovely – Things that are lovable--does it excite lovable influences, or is it identified with hate, resentment, anger, malice? R5908:6, R3306:6, R2891:6; Q643:9
Not only the thoughts relating to the beauties of nature, but also and chiefly the things of character. R4828:1; NS638:2
The loveliness of the perfect character of our God, our Lord Jesus, and the followers of Jesus--the lovely perfections of the truth. R3129:3, R4828:4
Amiable, lovely, lovable, kind, gentle thoughts, not gendering anger, hatred, strife--not vexatious, quarrelsome, vindictive thoughts. R2891:6
In everything that is beautiful, the awakened, quickened soul finds a hint of the grander, nobler things which God hath in reservation for those that love him. NS638:2
Thus our faces will show joy, peace, patience and love. Our spiritual and physical health and strength will prevail more and more. SM338:1
Things of good report – Not by the world, but by all reputable people, if they knew and understood everything connected with the thought. R5909:1; Q644:T
Implies only things that could be profitable should be entertained, considered, discussed. Frivolous things would be excluded. R3307:1
Things of good repute--the noble words or deeds or sentiments. R3129:3, R3307:1
The world does recognize to a considerable extent a right standard, even though it does not follow that standard. R2892:1
Worthy of praise. R1704:4
This is learning to speak evil of no man, to have no sympathy with slander, backbiting and evil surmisings, to rejoice in the truth. SM372:T; R1938:5; NS638:3
With tender conscience, those who are particular about the spots and wrinkles on their robes love things that are lovely, of good report. SM256:T
Any virtue – Any value. R3129:3, R5909:1
Any praise – In any sense praiseworthy. R5909:1, R3129:3; Q644:1
We should not think to praise ourselves nor strive to obtain praise; we should strive to be praiseworthy. We should think about the praise of God. We should note in others praiseworthy elements of character. R4828:4
Think – Comparatively few, even of educated and scientific people, seem to appreciate the great power of the mind and its potent influence upon all the affairs of our lives. R5908:2
"As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he." (Prov. 23:7) R5908:5, R4826:3
"In his law doth he (the godly man) meditate day and night." (Psa. 1:2) R5518:5
"Mine eyes prevent (anticipate) the night watches, that I may meditate in thy Word." (Psa. 119:148) R5518:5
If every mother realized that during the period of gestation her mental moods were blessing or cursing her offspring, how carefully she would guard her reading, companionship, mental reflections! R5251:2
The religion of the Bible is the only one that lifts its standard far above all baseness and demands the highest ideals. R3392:2
By filling the mind with the divine plan and will, the transforming influence may extend into every avenue of life. R2891:2
"Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." (Rom. 12:2) R2890:3, R3129:3
Our love for mankind will go further than the Golden Rule and take hold upon our thoughts and intents of the heart. The Lord takes notice not merely of the Christians' actions and words, but of his thoughts. OV368:2
On these things – With which God's anointed are brought into harmony by the purifying influence of the "new heart." E282
To keep our companionship with those in harmony with the new mind, will help us to keep our minds on the pure and noble things. F588
We desire to have in our hearts and minds things that are positively good, helpful, beneficial in some way. R5909:4, R5518:6
Restraint of conduct and of word is difficult unless the mind, the will, be brought into line with the will of God. R5908:5
All who are eager to be in harmony with God will think upon things that are good, pure, holy. R5518:6, R3783:6
Give the message of hope and joy and peace. Draw attention to the blessed privileges, rather than trials and hardships. As God's promises abound in our hearts, we preach the Gospel of hope. R5214:4
As we continue to recognize the commendable things in our lives and in the lives of those about us, we shall become the more God-like. R4828:4
The thoughts must not be neglected and permitted to browse in every pasture, but must be disciplined to feed upon pure and healthful food. R4827:2
Holy thoughts produce holy words. R4805:5, R1938:6
"Out of the abundance of the heart (the mind) the mouth speaketh." (Matt. 12:34) R3307:1, R3305:5
It is one evidence of the possession of the holy spirit when we rejoice in all good things, including God's grace operating in ourselves and in others. R2998:1
In mankind during the Millennium, and in the saints at the present time, noble thoughts have an invigorating influence upon the physical system, and ignoble thoughts germinate seeds of physical disease. R2014:6 to R2015:5
Those who are thinking on these things will speak to each other of the same. R2588:3, R5214:4
And stir up each other's mind with these, not delving into psychic phenomena. R2540:1
We now stand before the bar of judgment, and must daily settle our accounts with the Lord, making sure that no record of idle words stands against us--that we have only spoken words honoring God. R1938:5
As he advised others, Paul's mind dwelled on the heavenly things--his faith took hold of the promises of God with such tenacity that to him they were living realities, inspiring zeal and faithfulness. R1885:5
Not to think of self too highly, but to think soberly, measuring by the divine standards, living apart from and far above the spirit of the world. R1767:2
If the thoughts be impure, unjust or unholy, the power of the will becomes more and more impaired. R1703:3, R4828:4
The Apostles do not ignore or belittle the necessity of knowledge and faith, but they do exalt the importance of holiness of heart and life and thought. R121:5*
Undoubtedly a poisonous effect upon the system is engendered by thinking about sinful or injurious things of any kind. SM338:1
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| 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. |
And seen in me – This should be the standard of every Christian--all are ambassadors for the Lord. R3129:4
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| 10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. |
Your care of me – The Apostle labored at tent-making when it was necessary; but he also recognized the Lord's judgment that a laborer in the ministry is worthy of his keep. R2514:2
Hath flourished again – "Ye have revived your thought for me." Implies their earnestness to serve relaxed for a time. R3129:4
Wherein ye were also careful – "Ye did indeed take thought, but ye lacked opportunity"--Paul apparently added these words fearful that his previous words might be understood as a reproof. R3129:4
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| 11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. |
Not that I speak – Paul was not in want, for he was satisfied that the Father would provide the things which he really needed--and more he did not want. R3129:5
Whatsoever state I am – Whatever condition in which duty required him to be. R946:6
To be content – The example and counsel of the saints should be that of contentment, joyful anticipation, cheerful submission. A341
Not after the manner of the indolent and shiftless, but after using our talents and opportunities to the best of our ability we should be content with the result of such efforts. R3129:5
Even if the results should be the barest necessities of life--if such be the best obtainable from a reasonable and judicious use of opportunities and talents. R3129:5
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| 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. |
To be abased – Be ready to receive humiliations as necessary for your discipline and the proper balancing of your character. If you fret under humiliation, beware; you are not as roundly developed spiritually as you should be. R1920:6
To abound – If the Lord gives you a little exaltation today, a little encouragement of success in his service, receive it humbly, meekly remembering your own unworthiness and insufficiency apart from God. R1920:6
To suffer need – Let us learn also how to be in want (need) and yet not to want anything beyond what the Lord sees best to give. R3129:6
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| 13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
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I can do all things – Through consecration and spirit-begetting we can do acceptable works as New Creatures. R5759:2
"This is the victory which overcometh the world, even your faith." (1 John 5:4) R3088:4
God will so fortify and equip those who depend upon his grace--"It is God that girdeth me with strength." (Psa. 18:32) R2154:3
All the things of verses 11 and 12. R1920:6
It is by the spirit that we can overcome and reach glory. R160:2*
Our sufficiency is of God's providence--our Advocate is able to succor us, provide ways of escape, strengthen us, give us the "meat in due season," make us strong, remind us of his promises. NS755:5
Through Christ – His is a power sufficient for us. R5330:1
Confidence in God and reliance upon his promised grace maintains the desirable humility and meekness, yet gives the courage and force suggested by Paul--"our sufficiency is of God." (2 Cor. 3:5) R5113:6
In proportion as consecration, the full submission of our will to the Father's, is attained--in such proportion we may be used of the Lord as his mouthpieces, his instruments, ready for his service. R4458:5
"Without me, ye can do nothing." (John 15:5) "All things are yours, for ye are Christ's and Christ is God's." (1 Cor. 3:23) In the strength of these promises, we receive courage, and enter into the blessings of the Lord. R4064:1
"If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you." (John 15:7) What we are to do is clearly indicated in the divine Word. We are not to look for divine aid beyond those limitations. R4061:6
Our source of strength in battling with the current of life is never to be forgotten. R4005:1
It was the power of Christ that rested on Paul. (2 Cor. 12:9, 10) R1558:5
Through Christ's strength freely given into us for the seeking. R772:5*
It is only by the Spirit that we can overcome and reach glory. R160:2*
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| 14 Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction. |
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| 15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. |
Giving and receiving – The Apostle gave his entire time to the ministry of the Gospel, and did not request assistance; but he did recognize as the Lord's judgment that any laborer is worthy of his keep. R2514:2
The traveling "Elders" were sometimes supported in part by the voluntary contributions of those previously served with the truth. R1822:4
But ye only – Apparently other churches missed a great opportunity. R5810:3, R2227:6
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| 16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. |
Ye sent once and again – The special assistance from the Philippian brethren is mentioned--twice in Thessalonica, once in Corinth, and now at Rome. R5846:3, R2227:3
Whenever one has special talent for the ministry, others should take pleasure in assisting and thus be reckoned as having a share with him. R2514:2
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| 17 Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. |
Not because I desire – Although Paul urged brethren to send relief to the church at Jerusalem during a period of famine, he would not make a request for personal assistance, however much he may have been in need. R2227:6
Fruit – A richer spiritual growth. R1486:5, F346
To your account – Because it will assist in their development, God permits his work to be in such condition that it will have need of all the efforts of those who are truly his. F346
The Apostle was specially sent forth. Others less qualified in this ministry could support him, and thus have a share with him in the fruit of what would then be considered their combined labor. R2514:2
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| 18 But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. |
Epaphroditus – Upon Epaphroditus's recovery from severe illness ("nigh unto death"), Paul sent this faithful brother with this beautiful letter to the church at Philippi. R5810:2
See Phil. 2:25, 27, 30. Epaphroditus was Paul's "companion in labor and fellow soldier," who ministered to Paul's wants. By God's mercy he was restored to health, to continue to serve Paul and the brethren. R3127:2, R2227:6, R5810:2
Sent from you – Their gifts expressed their love and sympathy and care for Paul's temporal welfare. R1703:2
An odour of a sweet smell – Our humble efforts are spoken of in this way. NS214:6
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| 19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. |
God shall supply – "He careth for you." (1 Pet. 5:7)-- illustrated by the feeding of Elijah by the ravens. R3400:4
When tempted in any line or to any degree, "Let us fly to the Word" for "exceeding great and precious promises" (2 Pet. 1:4) such as this, upon which we may stand. R1802:5*
Your need – The absolute necessities, not luxuries. R3400:4
Your ability to present the truth to others in the most effectual manner. R415:5
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| 20 Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. |
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| 21 Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you. |
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| 22 All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar's household. |
All the saints salute you – Even with their limited means of communication, whenever there was opportunity the churches were prompt to send Christian greetings and benedictions. R1895:4
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| 23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. |
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