Philippians 4:2-9

Outline

VII. Exhortations, Unity, Prayer and Proper Thought

A. Unity 2-3

B. Joy, prayer, peace 4-7

C. Think and do 8-9

Points of Interest

Background: As we move into the final chapter of this book, Paul sums up what his message has been throughout by mentioning two women who, despite their long service and dedication, have apparently found themselves in some sort of a dispute. While we don’t know exactly who they are or what the nature of their dispute, the important thing to note is that Paul encourages them to put their disagreements aside for the sake of the Lord.  With this as a backdrop, Paul then enters into a plea for unity, maturity, prayer and an “attitude adjustment”.

vv. 2-3: Here we have a plea to set aside disputes and work out problems.  It isn’t clear exactly who is being referred to here, or if the intention is that the entire church step up in this situation, but the overriding message is clear; settle your problems and do not allow them to hinder the Lord’s work!

vv. 4-7: Here, Paul may be moving in to the closing of his letter, or he could be summing up his instructions in vv. 2-3.  I take the view that vv. 2-3 are where they are in the letter because they provide us with another example of church problems that must be overcome, and this section of exhortation expands upon Paul’s instruction to settle the matter. This would make a great deal of sense in application because we end up with a final chapter that sums up the previous three chapters and leaves us with the major themes of the letter reinforced and applied in life circumstances.  Let’s face it, it isn’t easy to escalate a dispute while rejoicing in the Lord!

Prayer, thanksgiving, humility and centering our focus on Jesus all have a way of diminishing our irritation with our brothers and sisters in Christ. (not to mention friends, family and coworkers) Paul’s reference to prayer also has the effect of pointing us into the ways of spiritual growth which will nearly always cause us to place less attention on irritants, and more attention to the cause of Christ in all situations, something Paul has been stressing for the entire book.

vv. 8-9: Here finally is the ultimate way to surmount difficulties in the Christian life: fix your attention where it should be affixed: on Christ and the things of Heaven.  Who can be angry when they do this? Who can be sinful when they do this?  Paul goes further to tell us directly that this is an imperative: DO IT!