Down to Earth But Heavenly Minded

What does Philippians Chapter 4 mean?

Chapter 4 speaks of Christ’s strength in times of suffering. This includes prayers and encouragement (Philippians 4:1–9) and a focus on God’s provision (Philippians 4:10–20), followed by a short conclusion (Philippians 4:21–23).

Verse 1 actually concludes Paul’s previous passage, from the end of chapter 3, with an encouragement to “stand firm” in the Lord.

In verses 2–3, he mentions Euodia and Syntyche, two women in the Philippian church involved in some kind of disagreement. He urges them to “agree in the Lord.” Paul then refers to a person called the “true companion,” asking him to help the women, Clement, and the rest of his workers (Philippians 4:3).

Paul then transitions to a focus on rejoicing in the Lord (Philippians 4:4). Christians are not to be anxious about anything, but instead to bring prayers of all kinds to the Lord (Philippians 4:6). This does not mean a total lack of thought. Rather, it means a lack of fear or anxiety. The peace of God protects (Philippians 4:7). Paul also encourages his readers to focus on things that are good (Philippians 4:8). This includes all they had learned and received and heard and seen in Paul (Philippians 4:9). The Philippian Christians are instructed to think about them, and to apply them, knowing God’s peace would be with them (Philippians 4:9).

The second part of this passage focuses on God’s provision (Philippians 4:10–20). Paul rejoices that the Philippian believers were now helping him again financially (Philippians 4:10). He did not write this because he was greedy, or desperate. Instead, he had learned how to be content in all situations (Philippians 4:11). He knew how to be content either in abundance or in need (Philippians 4:12), claiming he could do all things through Christ who strengthens him (Philippians 4:13).

Paul refers to their kindness in helping him during his time of trouble (Philippians 4:14). The church in Philippi was the first to help him financially, not once, but on multiple occasions (Philippians 4:15–17). Paul says he is well supplied as a result of the gifts Epaphroditus had brought to him from the Philippians. He considers them as a “fragrant offering” to the Lord (Philippians 4:18).

The final section of this chapter provides a brief conclusion (Philippians 4:21–23). Paul tells his readers to greet “every saint in Christ Jesus” and that the believers with him send their greetings (Philippians 4:21). This included “especially those of Caesar’s household” (Philippians 4:22), referring to some who served the emperor who had become believers in Christ. The final verse resembles many of Paul’s other letters, stating, “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.” Paul starts and ends his letter with a focus on grace from Jesus, the one who offers everything necessary to both know and follow the Lord.

Chapter Context
After putting suffering and hardship into perspective in the previous three chapters, Paul now gives specific thanks to the Philippians for their support and generosity. Prior passages in this letter have explained concepts like humility and hope, as well as a focus on Christ. Positive attitudes, and beneficial thinking, are especially important. In this concluding section, Paul calls on the Philippians to act with ”reasonableness,” especially as they handle disagreements within the church. Paul is confident that God will bless these faithful Christians for their generous support.

Verse by Verse

Verse 1. Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.

Chapter and verse divisions were not part of the original biblical writings. These were added much later, to make it easier to find specific passages in the text. This verse is an example of the quirks which modern chapters and verses can create. Philippians 4:1 actually concludes the thoughts from the last verses of chapter 3.

Here, Paul offers several encouragements to his readers. First, he notes his love for them. Love is a topic mentioned many times in this letter (Philippians 1:9, 16; 2:1, 2; 4:8). Second, Paul mentions his sincere desire to visit them. He had lived among them in the past, and missed them now while he was under house arrest in Rome. Third, he calls them “my joy,” another theme common in this message (Philippians 1:4, 25; 2:2, 29). Fourth, Paul refers to the Philippian believers as his “crown.” These believers were a reward and blessing to Paul.

He concludes this section from chapter 3 by teaching them to “stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.” He did not want to see his friends fall away from faithful service to Christ. Paul often taught his readers to “stand firm” (1 Corinthians 16:13; 2 Corinthians 1:24; Galatians 5:1; Ephesians 6:13; 2 Thessalonians 2:15). His goal was for them to stay strong and continue to grow, even during difficult times.

Verse 2. I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord.

Paul begins this passage with two particular women within the church, who apparently had some kind of disagreement: Euodia and Syntyche. Paul rarely named names when referring to disagreements in the churches. To mention these two women so specifically may have indicated they were well known in the congregation. It might also mean that their dispute was very public, particularly bitter, or even both.

However, their dispute did not mean these women were ungodly. In verse 3, we find they had worked together with Paul, Clement, and other godly leaders. Paul also said their names were in the “book of life,” noting his confidence that they were believers. Even Christians sometimes have disputes which need to be addressed. Paul himself experienced a dispute with Barnabas which led to them splitting into two separate missionary teams (Acts 15:36–41). Paul knew of this quarrel in Philippi and the need for these two women to come together to work out their differences. An unnamed church leader will later be asked to help them in this process.

Context Summary
Philippians 4:2–9 is Paul’s appeal to the Philippian Christians regarding how they handle disagreements within the church. Paul is particularly concerned with an argument between two women, Euodia and Syntyche. Paul’s advice is to focus on our ability to rejoice in our fellowship with Christ. The result of that emphasis ought to be an attitude of ”reasonableness,” seen by all people. With a proper focus on positive things, we can experience peace through the power of God.

Verse 3. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

In verse 2, Paul asked two women named Euodia and Syntyche to end their disagreement. In this verse, Paul also asks an unnamed church leader to assist them. Some suggest the Greek word sygyge, translated as “companion,” is actually a proper name. However, the context of the passage and the Greek grammar involved both argue against this view. Instead, this unnamed church leader was likely known to all involved but is unmentioned in the letter.

These two women disagreed on some issue, but they had worked together with Paul, Clement, and others. The Clement mentioned here may very well be the same man who authored the writing Clement of Rome—or 1 Clement, written approximately AD 95, though this is not certain. He was at least known to Paul’s readers and was in Philippi at the time the letter was written. Regardless, these individuals were all considered believers “whose names are in the book of life.” The book of life is mentioned elsewhere only in Revelation (Revelation 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:12, 15; 21:27), where it is used six times in reference to a list of those who will live with the Lord in eternity (Luke 10:20).

Verse 4. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.

Paul returns again to the theme of joy in this verse. This time, he strongly emphasizes that such an attitude should be constant, not temporary. This echoes the words of Philippians 3:1, to “rejoice in the Lord,” a phrase Paul also uses in Philippians 4:10 regarding his own actions. Believers find their joy and hope in God. Joy is part of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) and is important for every believer.

Paul seems especially focused on the idea that rejoicing is to take place at all times. We often forget that Paul wrote these words while a prisoner in Rome. He had been wrongfully arrested for some time, shipwrecked on the way there, bitten by a snake, and left under house arrest for two years (Acts 27:39–8:16). He had every reason to complain, yet focused on rejoicing. Both his teaching and example provide an amazing model. Every believer should seek to rejoice in the Lord despite difficult situations, just as Paul did.

Verse 5. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;

In addition to rejoicing, Paul encouraged his readers to be known for gentleness, patience, and moderation. This is the meaning of the Greek word, epieikes, translated “reasonableness” in the ESV. Christians are not to be seen as easily angered or foolish, but rather as reasonable, wise people who can handle difficulties and disagreements with maturity. This is important in the context of Paul’s request to Euodia and Syntyche to put aside their very public argument.

Paul continues his encouragements with his hope that Jesus would return at any moment. This understanding of Christ’s return has many direct applications for the life of the believer. Paul explains some of these applications in verses 6–9. All of these responses are positive, not negative, for the believer. Understanding that Christ can come at any moment is a source of encouragement for those who are saved (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18), not a discouragement or source of fear.

Verse 6. do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Because the Lord is at hand, or is about to return (Philippians 4:5), believers should set their lives and thoughts in certain ways. Paul begins with a contrast between anxiety and prayer. He notes believers shouldn’t be “anxious about anything.” This does not imply a complete lack of concern. Nor does it mean Christians are to be careless. Instead, it means that believers should not be fearful, paranoid, or uneasy. Why not? Believers can speak directly with God, the maker of heaven and earth, who has all power and authority, who is in total control of the situation.

Instead of anxiety, believers are to humbly and gratefully approach God with whatever is on their minds. Mature prayer includes thanking God for what He has done in addition to asking for help in areas of need. This is the Christian prescription to reduce anxiety in all areas of life. This does not mean believers are going to live a worry-free life. Nor does it mean additional help won’t be required. However, it does show that addressing problems in our lives should begin with prayer.

Verse 7. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Those who choose prayer and trust during times of anxiety will experience the “peace of God.” This peace offers three important positives. First, God’s peace is supernatural and unexplainable. It is truly amazing how God can and will respond during times of difficulty.

Second, God’s peace “will guard your hearts.” The heart was seen as something to protect at all costs, since it influenced all of life (Proverbs 4:23). Paul held the Philippians believers “in my heart” (Philippians 1:7).

Third, God’s peace will guard “your minds in Christ Jesus.” This concept is connected with love for God and others (Matthew 22:37–40), as well as unity. Throughout Philippians Paul expresses concern about the unity of the Philippian church, especially in the mind (Philippians 1:27; 2:2, 5). He mentions the mind again this time as a statement that unity in the midst of disagreements requires a mind controlled by God’s peace.

Verse 8. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Paul seems to indicate he could have written at length about rejoicing in the Lord (Philippians 4:4) and God’s peace (Philippians 4:7). These were certainly topics he would have enjoyed. Instead, he summarizes a list of areas of importance for believers. They include what is true, lovely, just, commendable, pure, excellent, honorable, and praiseworthy.

Believers were to “think about these things.” While God guards our hearts (Philippians 4:7), we are also commanded to focus our lives on things that please God. There is an ongoing back and forth throughout Paul’s writings, which indicates God’s involvement in every aspect of the life of the believer. At the same time, believers are commanded to live according to God’s ways. He does the work, yet gives us work to do. Believers are called to trust in the Lord, yet also to serve the Lord. Paul set an example for how to do both. He was faithful in prayer, yet gave every bit of his life to serve the Lord.

Verse 9. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me — practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

Paul offers four ways in which he had offered teachings for his readers to follow. First, he referred to following the teachings he had given them in the past, prior to the writing of this letter. These are most likely the thoughts and ideas Paul himself had developed during his ministry.

Second, they are to follow what they had “received” from him. This probably also refers to Paul’s teachings, with an emphasis on oral lessons and personal interaction. It is also likely a reference to ideas Paul had received from the Lord and perhaps the apostles (1 Corinthians 15:1–5), and in turn given to others.

Third, they are to follow what they had heard from Paul. Again, this likely included both his written and oral teachings. These would all have been considered equally authoritative.

Fourth, they are to follow what they had seen in Paul. Paul’s example served as a living teaching tool to the Philippian believers. Previously, Paul had specifically asked his readers to mimic his approach (Philippians 3:17).

As usual, Paul’s instructions are not merely meant to be known, or agreed to. They are meant to be put into action. The use of the Greek word prassete implies an ongoing, daily effort. This is not a one-time attempt or short-term effort to follow God. Those who followed Paul’s advice can experience the incredible peace that comes from fellowship with God. Paul also uses the title “God of peace” in Romans 15:33; 16:20, and 1 Thessalonians 5:23. The only other place this phrase is found in the New Testament is Hebrews 13:20.

Verse 10. I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.

Paul transitions here to a focus on God’s provision, in a passage running through verse 20. He begins with his recurring theme of rejoicing. Paul’s initial reason for writing this letter was to thank the readers for a recent financial gift, which Epaphroditus had brought to Rome. The generosity of the Philippian Christians was consistent and much appreciated by Paul (Philippians 1:3–7).

He recognizes that the Philippians have an ongoing and sincere interest in his well-being. Paul knew about their support for him, regardless of whether they sent additional financial help. He stresses this further by recognizing that prior to this gift, there had not been a recent opportunity to give financial support. More than likely, the Philippians had no one to take a gift to Paul until Epaphroditus left to visit him in Rome. It was only then that these believers had a safe way to send support to Paul during his time under house arrest.

Context Summary
Philippians 4:10–20 describes how Christians can overcome worry and worldly desires, regardless of their circumstances. By making a purposeful decision to be content, a believer can trust God to provide our true needs, and not be consumed with materialism or anxiety. Paul has learned this skill through his many trials and ministry experiences. Paul also thanks the Philippians for their generosity, and expresses his confidence that God will bless them for it.

Verse 11. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.

Paul continues his expression of thanks to the Philippian believers with a reminder that he was not saying these words because he needed more from them. He wanted to show that he was humble, and content. Paul could exist with or without earthly needs being met beyond basic essentials (Philippians 4:12).

In addition to living humbly, Paul focuses on the concept of contentment, regardless of his circumstances. Contentment is not automatic, nor is it a natural attitude. Rather, it is a learned skill. Paul’s variety of ministry experiences had offered him times of plenty, as well as times of need. This allowed Paul to learn how to find joy, regardless of his circumstances.

Writing from Roman imprisonment, he was at a time of great need. Even so, Paul expresses joy and contentment. It’s important to recall that his imprisonment was not brief. He had been continually held for two years in Rome, in addition to multiple years in Palestine. Contentment was essential for Paul to find any joy in his circumstances.

Verse 12. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.

Paul continues his discussion on the theme of contentment begun in verse 11. He specifically mentions the range of his ministry experiences, including plenty and hunger, abundance and need. Paul did not speak from theory in this area, but from personal hardships. He had endured much in his service to Christ, including five floggings, three beatings, a stoning, three shipwrecks, and more (2 Corinthians 11:24–29).

His comments here are meant to include all of these situations, as well as many others. Under house arrest while writing this letter, he claims to have found the “secret” to enduring these struggles. As mentioned previously, this is a deliberate choice to be content, in the power of Christ. Paul had gone without food at times, and had been given plenty of food at other times. He had lived with much and with little. He had experienced hunger and thirst, was without friends, and more, noted in a letter written long before Philippians (2 Corinthians 11:27–28).

Verse 13. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Despite his frequent need, and harsh treatment, Paul joyfully declares his confidence that God will allow him to endure anything. Paul’s words reflected the Gospel teachings that nothing is impossible with God (Matthew 19:26; Mark 10:27; Luke 1:37). Paul had declared elsewhere that if God is for us, who can be against us (Romans 8:31)?

This perspective can also be found in the Old Testament. Jeremiah 32:17 notes that nothing is too hard for the Lord. Job 42:2 declares God can do anything. God’s closest followers have long known that with God, nothing is impossible, whether Abraham’s promised son Isaac, the people of Israel crossing the Red Sea, or the people entering the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua. God provides on time, in His time, every time. Paul’s confidence can be found throughout his writings (2 Corinthians 3:4; 7:16; 8:22; 10:2; 11:17; Galatians 5:10; Ephesians 3:12; 2 Thessalonians 3:4).

This verse can, however, be taken out of context. Paul’s comment is specifically referring to the ability of a Christian to endure under hardship and persecution. Despite well-meaning use of the words, this text does not teach that a Christian is empowered to accomplish any task simply because they are saved.

Verse 14. Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble.

Even though Paul was confident in God’s provision for his needs, he expressed thanks to his readers for their concern. Their acts of generosity were a way of taking some of Paul’s hardship on themselves. And, of course, their acts were the way God fulfilled His promise to provide. Their kindness was an expression of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) and reflected Paul’s teachings elsewhere regarding kindness to others (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12; 2 Timothy 2:24; Titus 2:5).

It’s important to note that the Philippians shared, or had fellowship with, Paul’s trouble. Galatians 6:2 teaches, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” These believers sought to share in Paul’s struggles and supplied resources to help. Paul’s “troubles” included marks on his body from being beaten for his faith (Galatians 6:17). Paul’s one other use of “trouble” in Philippians is in 3:1 where he says it is “no trouble” to write to them. Regardless of the trials Paul faced, his attitude toward God, as well as the assistance provided by other believers, helped him to continue to persevere.

Verse 15. And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only.

Paul notes that the Philippian believers were the only church to financially support him when he left Macedonia. Paul remembered their unwavering, unique support. The phrase “beginning of the gospel” is not a reference to the start of the church, but rather the initial preaching of the gospel among the Philippians. In the early days of their congregation they helped finance Paul’s work, a noble action which Paul made sure to thank them for, even years later. This gift is probably the same one mentioned by Paul in 2 Corinthians 11:8, received when he was in Corinth.

Interestingly, Paul refers to their financial gifts as a “partnership with me in giving and receiving.” They gave financially and received spiritual benefits. A similar relationship exists today between local churches and those they support in ministry and missionary activities. Through financial support, one local church can impact many others in faraway places through the people they assist. This support also benefits the spiritual lives of those who give.

Verse 16. Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.

Paul will soon refer to recent gifts the Philippians had sent him through Epaphroditus (Philippians 4:18). He has also mentioned their earlier giving in verse 15, which is likely the same gift mentioned in 2 Corinthians 11:8. In this verse, Paul adds other times they had supported his work. Even when Paul was serving in other areas, these Christians were willing to aid him.

Paul’s work in Thessalonica is described in Acts 17:1–9 with some additional details in 1 and 2 Thessalonians. His ministry in this city was brief, less than a year. Even so, it was apparently long enough for the Philippian believers to send at least two gifts and perhaps more. In total, the Philippian church had sent Paul gifts on a minimum of four occasions. This makes the Philippian church the most giving towards Paul’s ministry, at least based on specific occasions mentioned in the New Testament. An interesting note is that Paul’s most “joyful” letter is also credited to his most giving church.

Verse 17. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit.

Paul clarifies his thanks for their gifts in this verse. The focus of his gratitude was not merely the money itself, but rather the blessings upon the Philippians for their generosity. We are told God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7). Those who sow (give) bountifully will also reap (receive) bountifully (2 Corinthians 9:6). This does not mean believers “give to get,” but that God is pleased when His people donate toward His work.

The apostle has already spoken of life being focused on things above (Philippians 3). In this chapter, Paul focuses on how finances can help regarding heavenly realities. A Christian’s finances can be used to help others come to know Christ, support Christians leaders, and result in blessings upon those who give. Finances can also be used to help those in need (Proverbs 19:17) and meet the needs of one’s family and those in the church (Acts 2:45; 1 Timothy 5:8).

Verse 18. I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.

This verse adds additional details about the gifts Paul received through Epaphroditus. Paul clearly received some money, enough for him to consider himself more than fully paid. The use of “gifts,” in plural form, also suggests that multiple items were given. Beyond money, Paul was probably sent other helpful items. Though unknown, these other gifts may have involved food, clothing, supplies, or personal items meant to assist Paul in his work. Writing instruments, ink, and other tools would have been especially useful to Paul at this point in his ministry.

Paul calls these gifts “a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.” Just as proper Old Testament offerings were considered acceptable sacrifices that pleased God, the Philippians’ gifts to Paul provided God the same satisfaction. Believers no longer lived under the requirements of the sacrificial system, but could bring joy to the Lord through other expressions of worship such as their sharing of gifts and resources with Paul.

Verse 19. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

In his conclusion of thanks to his readers, Paul encourages them. Paul was confident that God would meet their needs because they were generous in their giving. This is not a promise of wealth, or even an easy life. Rather, the concept of “need” has to be considered according to God’s will. What we “need” and what we “want” are not always the same thing. That being said, God tends to bless those who will use the resources they have according to His purposes. This is something Paul observed specifically happening with the Philippians.

Their needs would be met through Christ, the one who made and controlled all things. They would never lack with Christ as their provider. From the earliest pages of Scripture, God has been known as the Lord who will provide (Genesis 22:14), affirmed by Peter as well (2 Peter 1:11). As Paul noted in 2 Corinthians 9:10, “He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.”

Verse 20. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Paul concludes the main text of his letter with a brief doxology, or a formulated expression of praise. God is both Lord and Father to Christians. Jesus had taught them to pray to God as their Father in heaven (Matthew 6:9). Glory is a theme throughout the letter, appearing seven times in total (Philippians 1:11, 26; 2:11; 3:3, 19; 4:19, 20).

This verse also closely parallels Philippians 2:11, which looked forward to the day when, “every tongue [will] confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Interestingly, a similar ending is found in the book of Hebrews, which also references Christ’s glory (Hebrews 13:21). Though we are not absolutely sure that the book of Hebrews was written by Paul, it certainly reflects elements of his style, particularly in this conclusion. Paul also uses similar phrases in Galatians 1:5, 1 Timothy 1:17, and 2 Timothy 4:18.

Verse 21. Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you.

This verse begins the conclusion to Paul’s letter, consisting of the final three verses of Philippians. Paul’s conclusion begins with a request to pass along greetings. Paul refers to all of the Philippian believers as “saints” here, as well as in the first verse of the letter (Philippians 1:1). In Philippians 4:22, he will add that all the saints with Paul, meaning all the Christian believers Paul was working with in Rome, send greetings to the Philippians. Unlike today’s perception of saints as a special class of spiritual individuals, the New Testament portrays every true believer as a saint, a word meaning “holy one.”

Paul adds greetings from the believers with him in Rome. The use of anthropoi indicates this group may consist of both “brothers and sisters” and is not specific only to men. The church in Rome was growing rapidly during this time, expanding even from the time Paul wrote the book of Romans, in about AD 56. Just six years later, it appears Paul has reached many more with the gospel.

Context Summary
Philippians 4:21–23 concludes Paul’s letter to the church at Philippi. As with many of his other writings, Paul emphasizes brotherhood and the grace of God. In several of his epistles, Paul closes out his remarks with an appeal to the grace of God, through Jesus Christ. As a man drastically transformed by that grace, Paul had good reasons to remind others of it often.

Verse 22. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar ‘s household.

In this verse, Paul extends his sending of greetings from the few Christians personally with him to include all the believers in this area. “Saints,” as used in the Bible, is a reference to any person who is a saved Christian. The term does not mean a special or extra-holy class of believer.

This is an interesting remark, especially since Paul had previously arrested many of the saints (Acts 26:10). Later, he became one and sought to help others come to faith in Christ. Church leaders are not the only saints but are called “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). The rapidly growing Roman church would soon be persecuted under Nero, but would survive to become the hub of Western Christianity.

Paul took special care to include “those of Caesar’s household.” He may have been intentionally vague at this point, not wishing to reveal the particular servants of Caesar who had converted to Christianity in his writing. However, he clearly wanted to encourage the Philippian believers that their investment in his ministry was having tremendous influence in Rome. Even those who served among the Emperor’s household had come to faith in Christ. This is the only specific reference to Caesar outside of the Gospels and Acts.

Verse 23. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Paul concludes with a statement similar to some of his other letters: “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.” The closest parallel is found in Philemon 1:25. That verse uses the same exact phrase, as the conclusion to another of the Prison Epistles. In 2 Corinthians 13:14, Paul also uses the phrase “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 16:20 ends with, “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.” Other Pauline letters use very similar words in end remarks (Galatians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:28; 2 Thessalonians 3:18).

Why this emphasis on grace to end his letters? Perhaps Paul, a man trained to follow the law in the strictest way, had been so transformed by the grace of Jesus that he could not help but emphasize it repeatedly. We are saved by grace and live by God’s grace each step of each day. Paul’s repeated emphasis on God’s work in our lives, rather than our own human accomplishments, serves as a reminder of the true source of our changed lives and spiritual strength.

Book Summary
Philippians is Paul’s discussion of living the Christian life. In this letter to the church of Philippi, Paul highlights themes such as joy and glory. He also puts great emphasis on how a Christian’s thinking—their attitude—affects the way they live out their faith. Paul is very thankful for the support of the Philippian church, but is also concerned about the influence of various false teachers. This letter is less theological than most of his other writings, and more practical.

End of Chapter 4 and the book of Philippians.

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