EXECUTIVE EDITOR Jack W. Hayford, Litt.D. ASSOCIATE EDITOR Paul G. Chappell, Ph.D.

OLD TESTAMENT EDITORS Judy Brown, Ed.D. Roy Hayden, Ph.D. ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kenneth C. Ulmer, Ph.D., D.Min. NEW TESTAMENT EDITORS Jonathan David Huntzinger, Ph.D. Gary Matsdorf, M.A.

Thomas Nelson Publishers

Spirit-Filled Life Mission Statement The mission of Spirit-Filled Life Bibles and reference products is to serve the body of Christ with a broad range of trustworthy products marked by biblical soundness, balanced scholarship and a sense of honor toward the modern-day working of the Holy Spirit. These resources are designed to provide biblical equipping for practical living in Gods Kingdom and around the world. New Spirit-Filled Life Bible Copyright 2002, 2013 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. All rights reserved. The text of the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, may be quoted in any form (written, visual, electronic, or audio) up to and inclusive of ve hundred (500) verses without express written permission of the publisher, provided that the verses quoted do not account for more than 25 percent of the work in which they are quoted, and provided that a complete book of the Bible is not quoted. When the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, is quoted, one of the following credit lines must appear on the copyright page or title page of the work: Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. When quotations from the NLT text are used in nonsalable media, such as church bulletins, orders of service, newsletters, transparencies, or similar media, a complete copyright line is not required, but the initials NLT must appear at the end of each quotation. Quotations in excess of ve hundred (500) verses or 25 percent of the work, or other permission requests, must be approved in writing by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Send requests by e-mail to: permission@ tyndale.com for call 630-668-8300, ext. 8817. Publication of any commentary or other Bible reference work produced for commercial sale that uses the New Living Translation requires written permission for use of the NLT text. All Rights Reserved Printed in the United States of America 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1017 16 15 14 13

Kingdom Dynamics

Among its multiple study resources and approach- work has been organized into nine clusters, in es, the New Spirit-Filled Life Bible contains a the spirit of Isaiah 65:8 which notes how the new developed coverage of forty-one themes referred wine is found in the cluster and that a blessing is 109:14 But I, your servant, will goThese right on offspring die. to as Kingdom Dynamics. in it (NKJV). clusters, each representing a Neh 4:5 This term is derived rejoicing! family name be blotted out in Isa 65:6 7 from abounding biblical and experiential evidence general category of spiritual truth, and the compo29 See WW at May my accusers be parts clothed with one expand on key new wine xt generation. that verifies proven biblical nent of each Lev 9:2. principles and values disgrace; principles of Bible-centered, Spirit-filled life and 109:15 spread and effective RD never forget the sins of the his dynamic as essential for Jer 16:17 may their humiliation cover them like s; advance of the Good ministryproven to manifest blessing as Jesus News 109:16 about the Kingdom 37:32 a cloak. mothers sins never be Jesus commissioned toPs be preached throughout the name is lifted up, souls are drawn to Him, lives are 109:17 30 But I will give repeated thanks to the ORD, Matt 7:2Understanding d from the record. whole world (Matt 24:14). of and transformed, and the L Kingdom is advanced through 109:18 praising him His to everyone. faithful attention to these values and truths have servantsdynamically enabled to do His will. RD always remember these sins, Ps 73:6 31 For he stands beside the needy, 109:19 characterized the church where Gods people Wherever one of these timeless topics is meny his name always disappear from Ezek 7:27 ready to savetioned them from those who move in the fullness ofpower Jesus promised would in Scripture, it is highlighted (keyed with n memory. 109:20 condemn them. IsaHis 3:11 commissions (Acts enable the fulfillment of 1:8). a dove symbol and gray-screened to set it apart sed all kindness to others; 2 Tim 4:14 Godly pastors, teachers, evangelists, and other from the Bible text). Each entry follows this format: 109:21 cuted the poor and needy, Ps 25:11 key leaders have contributed chapter(s) and verse(s) being referenced, title of the ounded the brokenhearted to Ezek 36:22 to the provision of A psalm of David. article under its larger topic (abbreviated 109:22 the wisdom, insight, and spiritual instruction conparticular Ps 40:17 tained in these Kingdom Dynamics articles. Their form in capital letters), and commentary. 1 Prov 18:14 o curse others; The LORD said to my Lord,* See WW at u curse him. Sit in the place of honor at my right Ps 40:17. 109:24 lessed others; hand Heb 12:12 until I humble your enemies, nt you bless him. 109:26 making them a footstool under your s natural to him as his clothing, Ps 119:86 feet. ater he drinks, ch food he eats. 2 The LORD will extend your powerful his curses return and cling to kingdom from Jerusalem*; ke clothing; you will rule over your enemies. 3 y be tied around him like a When you go to war, your people will serve you willingly. You are arrayed in holy garments, curses become the LORDs and your strength will be renewed hment each day like the morning dew. ccusers who speak evil of me.

M 109:13

110

ell with me, O Sovereign LORD, ake of your own reputation!

you are so faithful and oor and needy, heart is full of pain. g like a shadow at dusk; shed off like a locust. are weak from fasting, m skin and bones. to people everywhere; ey see me, they shake their in scorn. LORD my God! because of your unfailing

KINGDOM DYNAMICS
110:1 Victory in the Fullness of the Holy Spirit, HOLY SPIRIT FULLNESS. Peters last quotation in his Pentecost Day message is this prophecy of David (Acts 2:34, 35). Significantly, he links the promise of ultimate victory with the coming of the Holy Spirit. The fullest understanding of this scripture cannot be limited to the human, political, or institutional adversaries faced, since a broader understanding of our spiritual adversaries is found in Ephesians 6:12. Peter unlocks the significance of Davids declaration of victory as he proclaims another dimension of its fulfillment in Acts 2:3335. The Messiahs manifest victory extends to the church itself, as the NT teaches how each believer shares in the authority of what Jesus the Messiah has done in vanquishing all adversaries (see Eph 1:22).
(*/Isa 28:11, 12) S.G.B.

ee that this is your doing, yourself have done it, LORD. em curse me if they like, will bless me! attack me, they will be ced!

109:28 2 Sam 16:11 12 109:29 Job 8:22 Ps 35:26 109:30 Ps 35:18 109:31 Pss 16:8; 37:33 110:1 *Matt 22:44 *Mark 12:36; 14:62 *Luke 20:42 *Acts 2:34 *Heb 1:13 110:2 Ps 45:6 Dan 7:1314 110:3 Judg 5:2 Ps 96:9 See WW at Ps 8:5.

10:2 Hebrew Zion.

The bystanders reviled Christ on the Cross and quote this verse. The word said is a unique word which only rein contempt (Matt 27:39). fers to inspired prophetic utterances. For footstool see Joshua D: This psalm is considered by Jews and Christians 10:24, 25.

and took him out and buried him. 7 About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 Peter asked her, Was this the price you and your husband received for your land? Yes, she replied, that was the price. 9 And Peter said, How could the two of Understanding important key words helps you numerical listing for each word. Strongs numbers in you even think of conspiring to test the better understand Gods Word. That is why de- regular type refer to the numbers from the Hebrew Spirit of the Lord like this? The young men tailed, easy-to-understand definitions are included dictionary in the back of Strongs. Strongs numbers WORD WEALTH who buried your husband are just outside for more than 550 important terms. in italicized (slanted) type refer to numbers from the the door, and they will carry you out, too. ully, dunamis (doo-nam-is); Each Word Wealth listing is located within the Greek dictionary in the back of Strongs. In the cen10 Instantly, she fell to the floor and died. 11: One of four great power Bible text, near the verse where the featured word ter column, When the young men came in and you saw will that also find cross-referencing to hers are exousia, delegated autheher locations of related Word Wealth entries. Word appears. English spellings of original Greek and Heshe was dead, they carried out and buried ros, great strength (especially illuminates key passages and expands your brew words are given, along with helpful insight into Wealth 11 her beside her husband. Great fear gripped d kratos, dominion authority. understanding the derivation, as well as the Strongs Concordance the entire church andoverall everyone else who of Scripture. ns energy, power, might, great heard what had happened. ility, strength. It is sometimes be the powers of the world to The Apostles Heal Many k upon the Earth and divine 12 The apostles were performing many miming all resistance. (Compare raculous signs and wonders among the dynamite, and dynamomeamis in Jesus resulted in drapeople. And all the believers were meeting mations. This is the norm for regularly at the Temple in the area known d and Spirit-led church. as Solomons Colonnade. 13 But no one else dared to join them, even though all the people had high regard for them. 14Yet more who owned land or houses and more people believed and were brought 35 m and bring the money to to the Lordcrowds of both men and women. give to those in need. 15 As a result of the apostles work, sick peoce, there was Joseph, the one ple were brought out into the streets on beds nicknamed Barnabas (which

unprofessional people exhibpower and authority. It also ar presentation of the gospel ambiguous or unintelligible. ot a human quality but a reilled with the Holy Spirit.

Word Wealth

f Encouragement). He was of Levi and came from the us. 37 He sold a field he owned he money to the apostles.

apphira was a certain man named ho, with his wife, Sapphira, perty. 2 He brought part of the apostles, claiming it was the With his wifes consent, he kept

said, Ananias, why have you ur heart? You lied to the Holy u kept some of the money for

5:3 Deut 23:21 John 13:2 5:5 Acts 2:43 5:9 1 Cor 10:9 See WW at Matt 18:19. See WW at Rev 2:10. 5:12 Mark 16:1520 John 10:23 Acts 3:10 Heb 2:4 See WW at Acts 1:14. 5:13 Acts 2:47

WORD WEALTH 5:13 had high regard for, megaluno (megal-oo-no); Strongs #3170: To make great, to enlarge, to magnify, to increase, to make conspicuous, to extol, to show respect, to hold in high esteem. When Ananias and Sapphira were judged, many shrank from associating with the apostles and their services. Despite all this, the public looked at the new Christian worshipers favorably (megaluno).

nd Sapphira were judged for their hypocrisy and The believers best defense against self-deception is through mutual r their decision to retain some of their personal accountability to one another (especially to a local congregation, elves (v. 4). The severity of the punishment for Eph 5:21). Constant renewing of the mind through the Word and a sustained fullness of the Holy Spirit are also safeguards. See se may seem intolerant and graceless Following is(see an Luke index providing this information about each entry: 1) English word treated; 2) Greek 12:1, 2; 2 Corinthians 10:4, 5; Ephesians 5:1720. necessary both to or establish apostolic authority Romans Hebrew transliteration; and 3) the Scripture reference where the Word Wealth definition is located. and to safeguard the churchs purity. A sobering 5:12 Signs and wonders characterized the ministry of the early has the power to distort the thinking of Chris- church and are equally intended to be expected in and through Word Index 12:131. rming our need to allow him no place (Eph 4:27). the church today. See text andWealth notes on 1 Corinthians

able, dunamai . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jude 24 abundance (have), perisseuo . . . . Matt 25:29 admirable, euphemos . . . . . . . . . Phil 4:8 admit, martureo . . . . . . . . . . . Acts 26:22 adultery, moicheia . . . . . . . . . . . John 8:3 Advocate (alongside for strength, guidance), parakletos . . . . . . . . . . . . .John 15:26 afraid, phobeo . . . . . . . . . . . . Matt 10:26 age, aion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Matt 28:20 agree, sumphoneo . . . . . . . . . .Matt 18:19 alarm, shophar . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hos 8:1 Almighty, shadday . . . . . . . . . . . .Ps 91:1

alone, echad . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Deut 6:4 altar, mizbeach . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Kin 12:9 am aware of, yada . . . . . . . . . . Exod 3:7 amazing thing (did an), pala . . . .Judg 13:19 ambassador, presbeuo . . . . . . . . . Eph 6:20 am everywhere, male . . . . . . . . .Jer 23:24 angel, malach . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Chr 32:21 angels, angelos . . . . . . . . . . . . Matt 4:11 anger (observable, erce), aph . . . . Judg 10:7 anger (from repeated irritation), chaas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Kgs 16:2 angry, embrimaomai . . . . . . . . . John 11:38

Truth-In-Action
Truth-In-Action is an intensely practical feature showing you ways to apply the Bibles great truths. Appearing in chart form, this study help summarizes the foundations and teachings of each book, then invites youand shows you howto act upon the summons the Holy Spirit is issuing in the Word. Climaxing the books (or major divisions of the books), key Action truths are listed in numerical order, with each Truth listed, noting those verses that invite the believers response. Together these passages are summarized with action words that offer specific steps you can take to let God guide your lifeat work, at homeat all times.

TRUTH IN ACTION
T H RO U G H I S A IA H

Letting the Life of the Holy Spirit Bring Faiths Works Alive in You!

TRUTH
ISAIAH TEACHES TEXT
58:15

ACTION
ISAIAH INVITES
Guard against forms of godliness that have no life. Godliness begins with a heart turned toward God, with a life seeking to be molded into the image of Christ, responding to the conviction of sin, and growing in love with the Lord. Set aside time to fast and pray. Take the time you would normally use to eat to pray instead. Ask God to reveal sin in your life and respond to what He shows you. Ask God to show you how He wants to use you in practical expressions of godliness.

1Growing in Godliness

Isaiah wrote during a time when Gods people sought empty forms of religion and rituals over a genuine, life-changing relationship with Him. Today, Gods people face that same temptation. Rituals alone do not challenge us to change, convict us of sin, or require a consistent heart investment to maintain, as does a life-giving relationship with God. Rich traditions and rituals exist within the Christian church but must be infused with Gods presence, motivated by love, and sustained through relationship.

58:614

The Book of Isaiah presents a Old beautiful prophetic picture of Testament Truth-In-Action Charts 9:27 Rejoice for the great light that has come. Worship Jesus the Messiah, the One who TRUTh-IN-ACTION ThROUgh Page Jesus TRUTh-IN-ACTION ThROUgh Page as Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everwould come to save, redeem, and Genesis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 lasting Psalms (Book One: Psalms 141) . . . . . . . 665 Father, Prince of Peace. restore people to God. Reading Exodus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Psalms (Book Two: Psalms 4272) . . . . . . 686 these verses and seeing Jesus in 11:110 the heir to Davids throne, Jesus .the MessiLeviticus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160 Seek Psalms (Book Three: Psalms 7389) . . . . 700 all of His splendor and majesty, Ask to(Book be lled with the Spirit of the Lord that Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212 ah. Psalms Four: Psalms 90106) . . . . . 714 compassion and mercy sparks rested upon Jesus. Deuteronomy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255 Psalms (Book Five: Psalms 107150) . . . . . 743 within us the God-given desire Joshua . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287 Take Proverbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40:1, 11 comfort, knowing that God, in Christ, has 783 and need to worship. As we worJudges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 322 come Ecclesiastes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . to us with forgiveness and tender mercy. 797 ship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jesus and begin to know Him Ruth 330 Song of Solomon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 807 for who He is, that spark becomes 53:112 to.Jesus 1 Samuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 367 Surrender Isaiah . .your . . .life . . . . ., the . . Righteous . . . . . .One. . 890 ame of passion and devotion has taken on Himself all sin and punishment 965 for 2aSamuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 400 HeJeremiah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Immanuel, God with us. wrongdoing so that you could be forgiven,978 1for Kings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 438 your Lamentations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . and made whole. He is able to have com2 Kings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 475 healed, Ezekiel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1038 on .you 1 Chronicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 510 passion Daniel . . . and . . make . . . intercession . . . . . . .for . .you . (Heb 1060 2 Chronicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 551 4:1416; Hosea . 7:25). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1077 Ezra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:1820 . . . 565 Reason Joel . with . . . the . . Lord, . . .talk . . to . .Him . . about . . . your . . sin. 1086 Pursuing Holiness Nehemiah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 583 HeAmos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1101 is willing and able to completely remove every The recurring theme of sin, Esther . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 595 trace Obadiah . . . of . sin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1107 and stain judgment, and restoration is Job . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 631 Jonah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1114 seen throughout the Prophets. 6:18 Worship God in His holiness. Invite the conviction Repeatedly in Isaiah we see Israel of the Holy Spirit, confess your sin before God, turn away from God to sin; yet and receive His forgiveness and cleansing. Now God continually reaches out in

Dynamic 2Cultivating Devotion

7:14

Recognize that Jesus is Gods sign to us. Born of a virgin, He is Immanuel, God with us (Matt 1:23; Luke 1:2733).

The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the

PHILIPPIANS
Author: Paul

speaks of joy in the Lord, emphasizing that through Christ alone is Christian joy realized, as are all other Christian graces. Essential to this joy is the Date: confident conviction of the lordship A.D. 61 of Christ, based on experience of the Theme: power of His resurrection. Because of Joy in Christ this conviction, life for Paul attained meaning. Even death became a friend, Key Words: because it would bring him into a fullJoy, Rejoice er experience of the presence of Christ (1:2123). Occasion and Date The joy presented in Philippians involves eager Paul most likely wrote his letter to the Philippians expectation of the near return of the Lord. That during his first Roman imprisonment, about A.D. this expectation was dominant in Pauls thinking 61, to thank them for the contribution he had re- is seen in his five references to Christs return. In ceived from them. He also warmly commended Ep- the context of each reference is a note of joy (1:6, aphroditus, who had brought the gift from Philippi 10; 2:16; 3:20; 4:5). and whom Paul was sending back. Paul further describes a joy that springs from fellowship in the spreading of the Good News. He bePurpose While his primary reason for writing the letter gins the letter by thanking the Philippians for their was to acknowledge the gift sent by the Philip- partnership in spreading the Good News through pians, Paul also appealed for a spirit of unity and their monetary gifts. The gifts, however, are only steadfastness among them. In addition, he warned an expression of their spirit of fellowship, or as he against dangerous heresies that were threatening puts it in 4:17, a reward for your kindness. So Christian joy is an outgrowth of being in the active them, probably Judaism and Gnosticism. fellowship of the body of Christ.

Background

Acts 16:1240 records the founding of the Philippian church. Paul established the church during his second missionary journey, about A.D. 51. From its inception, the church displayed a strong missionary zeal and was consistent in its support of Pauls ministry (4:15, 16; see 2 Cor 11:8, 9). Paul enjoyed a closer friendship with the Philippians than with any other church.

Characteristics

In many respects, this is the most beautiful of Pauls letters, full of tenderness, warmth, and affection. His style is spontaneous, personal, and informal, presenting us with an intimate diary of Pauls own spiritual experiences. The dominant note throughout the letter is that of triumphant joy. Paul, though a prisoner, was exultantly happy, and called upon his readers to rejoice in Christ always. It is an ethical and practical letter in its emphasis and centers on Jesus Christ. To Paul, Christ was more than an example; He was the apostles very life.

Personal Application

This letter reveals the timeless message that true joy is to be found only in a dynamic personal relationship with Jesus Christ and in the assurance that God is able to turn adverse circumstances to our good and His glory. Because he was united to Christ by a living faith, Paul could claim contentment in all circumstances. His unadorned testimony was I rejoice ... continue to rejoice (1:18), and his unqualified command was, Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it againrejoice! (4:4).

Content

Christ Revealed

The abiding message of Philippians concerns the nature and grounds of Christian joy. For Paul, true joy is not a surface emotion that depends on favorable circumstances of the moment. Christian joy is independent of outward conditions, and is possible even in the midst of adverse circumstances, such as suffering and persecution. Joy ultimately arises from fellowship with the risen, glorified Christ. Throughout the letter, Paul

For Paul, Christ is the sum and substance of life. To preach Christ was his consuming passion; to know Him was his highest aspiration; and to suffer for Him was a privilege. His chief desire for his readers was that they might have the mind of Christ. To support his exhortation for self-forgetting humility, the apostle describes the attitude of Christ that moved Him to renounce the glory of heaven and suffer and die for our salvation (2:511). In doing so, he presents the most concise statement in the

1548 I P H i L ippia N S I N trod U ctio N

New Testament concerning the preexistence, the incarnation, and the exaltation of Christ. Both the deity and the humanity of Christ are stressed.

The Holy Spirit at Work

The Spirits work in three areas is mentioned in the letter. First, Paul declares that the Spirit of Jesus Christ will direct the accomplishment of

Gods purpose in his own experience (1:19). The Holy Spirit also promotes unity and fellowship in the body of Christ (2:1). Common participation in Him breeds singleness of purpose and maintains a community of love. Then, in contrast to the lifeless ritual observance of formalists, the Holy Spirit inspires and directs the worship of true believers (3:3).

O U T L I N E O F P H i L ippia N S
Introduction 1:111 A. Salutation 1:1, 2 B. Thanksgiving 1:38 C. Prayer 1:911 I. Circumstances of Pauls imprisonment 1:1226 A. Had advanced the Good News 1:1218 B. Had brought assurance of blessing 1:1921 C. Had created a dilemma for Paul 1:2226 II. Exhortations 1:272:18 A. Live worthy of the Good News 1:272:4 B. Reproduce the mind of Christ 2:511 C. Cultivate the spiritual life 2:12, 13 D. Leave off murmurings and questionings 2:1418 III. Commendation of and plans for Pauls companions 2:1930 A. Timothy 2:1924 B. Epaphroditus 2:2530 IV. Warnings against error 3:121 A. Against the Judaizers 3:116 B. Against sensualism 3:1721 Conclusion 4:123 A. Final appeals 4:19 B. Acknowledgment of the Philippians gift 4:1020 C. Greetings 4:21, 22 D. Benediction 4:23

Greetings from Paul This letter is from Paul and Timothy, slaves of Christ Jesus. I am writing to all of Gods holy people in Philippi who belong to Christ Jesus, including the elders* and deacons. 2 May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. Pauls Thanksgiving and Prayer 3 Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. 4 Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, 5 for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. 6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
1:1Or overseers; or bishops.

1:1 Acts 16:1 2 Cor 1:1 Col 1:1 Phlm 1:1 1:23 Rom 1:78 1:5 See WW at Acts 2:42. See WW at Mark 1:1. 1:6 1 Cor 1:8

Word WeaLtH
1:6 good, agathos (ag-ath-oss); Strongs #18: Good, in a physical and moral sense, and which produces benefits. The word is used of persons, things, acts, conditions, and so on. A synonym of agathos is kalos, good in an aesthetic sense, suggesting attractiveness, excellence.
7 So it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart. You share with me the special favor of God, both in my imprisonment and in defending and confirming the truth of the Good News. 8 God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus.

1:7 2 Cor 7:3 See WW at 2Cor 12:9. 1:8 Rom 1:9 See WW at Rev 1:5.

1:1 Because of his close relationship with the Philippian Christians, Paul does not need to insist upon his authority as an apostle as he does in other epistles. Elders: A reference to an official in the local church, stressing the nature of his work as an overseer. Their main function was to provide spiritual supervision to the church. In the NT the word emphasizes the status of the office, and pastor, which describes the shepherding function of the office. Deacons: Leaders involved in beneficent activities with the church, especially taking care of the needs of the poor and the sick in the church and those in prison. They colabored with the elders in overseeing the local church. See note on 1 Timothy 3:8. 1:5 The Philippians had actively supported Pauls ministry from the

time that they first became Christians. 1:6 See section 4 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 1:6 Paul is confident that they will maintain their fruitful activity until Christ returns. He bases his belief, not on their own faithfulness, but on Gods purpose and faithfulness until Christ returns. 1:7 See section 3 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 1:7 The Philippians are united with Paul both in his sufferings and in his witness of the Good News, showing that they share in the grace that he experienced. 1:8 Pauls affection for them is identical with the love of Christ for them.

P H i L ippia N S 2 : 2

I 1549

I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. 10 For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christs return. 11 May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ* for this will bring much glory and praise to God.
9

Pauls Joy That Christ Is Preached 12 And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters,* that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. 13 For everyone here, including the whole palace guard,* knows that I am in chains because of Christ. 14 And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers* here have gained confidence and boldly speak Gods message* without fear. 15 Its true that some are preaching out of jealousy and rivalry. But others preach about Christ with pure motives. 16 They preach because they love me, for they know I have been appointed to defend the Good News. 17Those others do not have pure motives as they preach about Christ. They preach with selfish ambition, not sincerely, intending to make my chains more painful to me. 18 But that doesnt matter. Whether their motives are false or genuine, the message about Christ is being preached either way, so I rejoice. And I will continue to rejoice. 19 For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance. Pauls Life for Christ 20 For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. 21 For to me,

1:9 1 Thes 3:12 See WW at Matt 6:6. See WW at Rom 5:5. See WW at Matt 25:29. 1:10 Rom 12:2 1 Cor 1:8 See WW at 2Pet 3:1. 1:11 John 15:4 See WW at 2Tim 4:8. See WW at Eph 1:6. 1:12 2 Tim 2:9 1:13 Acts 28:3031 Eph 3:1; 4:1 See WW at 1Cor 11:19. 1:14 Phil 1:20 1:15 Phil 2:3 See WW at Acts 9:20. 1:17 Acts 21:33 1:19 2 Cor 1:11 See WW at Rom 7:6. 1:20 Rom 5:5; 14:8 1 Cor 6:20 Eph 6:19 See WW at Acts 4:31. See WW at Acts 5:13.

living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. 22 But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really dont know which is better. 23 Im torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. 24 But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live. 25 Knowing this, I am convinced that I will remain alive so I can continue to help all of you grow and experience the joy of your faith. 26 And when I come to you again, you will have even more reason to take pride in Christ Jesus because of what he is doing through me.

1:21 Gal 2:20 Col 1:27 1:22 Rom 1:13 1:23 2 Cor 5:8 2 Tim 4:6 See WW at 2Cor 5:14. See WW at 2Tim 2:22. 1:26 Phil 2:24 See WW at 1Cor 15:23. 1:27 Eph 4:1 Phil 4:12 1:28 2 Tim 2:11 Heb 13:6

Live as Citizens of Heaven 27 Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News. 28 Dont be intimidated in any way by your enemies. This will be a sign to them that they are going to be destroyed, but that you are going to be saved, even by God himself. 29 For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him. 30 We are in this struggle together. You have seen my struggle in the past, and you know that I am still in the midst of it.

Have the Attitude of Christ Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2 Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.
1:29 Matt 5:11 12 Acts 5:41 See WW at Col 3:13. See WW at Acts 17:3. 1:30 Acts 16:1940 1 Thes 2:2 2:1 2 Cor 13:14 Col 3:12 See WW at Acts 9:31. See WW at Acts 2:42. 2:2 1 Pet 3:8

1:11Greek with the fruit of righteousness through Jesus Christ. 1:12Greek brothers. 1:13Greek including all the Praetorium. 1:14aGreek brothers in the Lord. 1:14bSome manuscripts read speak the message.

1:10 Paul intends their love to result in their ability both to discern and choose what is morally best. As a result, their lives will be transparently pure and they will provide others no occasion for stumbling. 1:1218 Rather than slowing the spread of the Good News, Pauls imprisonment has given him new opportunities for witnessing, particularly among the elite of the Roman army. His experience has also stimulated others to preach more boldly, even though some had the wrong motive. Paul has no scathing remark for these people because their doctrine is correct. His reaction is vastly different to the doctrinal agitators addressed in ch. 3. 1:2125 Paul does not long for death, but for the closer presence of Christ that death will bring. Meanwhile, he has a strong sense of duty to remain among them for their growth and maturing in the faith. 1:2124 See section 4 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians.

1:23 The word go is also used for pulling up tent pegs or a ships anchor. For Paul, death is simply breaking camp and moving on or setting sail to a new port. 1:27 Conducting yourselves: This word usually describes ones life as a citizen. The city of Philippi prized its Roman citizenship, but Paul reminds his readers that the most important conduct is to behave in a manner befitting citizens of the Kingdom of God. 1:28 The courageous conduct of the Philippian Christians is evidence of the spiritual ruin of their adversaries and proof of their own eternal safety. 1:29, 30 See section 4 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 2:14 See section 1 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 2:2 Unity of purpose and disposition among Gods people are crucial if the Good News is to be most effective.

1550 I P H i L ippia N S 2 : 3
2:3 Rom 12:10 Gal 5:26 1 Pet 5:5 See WW at Acts 20:19. 2:4 1 Cor 10:24 See WW at Acts 4:12. 2:6 John 1:12; 5:18; 14:910; 17:5 2:7 John 1:14 Rom 8:3 2 Cor 8:9 Gal 4:4 See WW at 1Cor 9:15. See WW at Rev 19:5.
8

kiNgdoM dYNaMicS 2:2 One Accord, POWER OF UNITY. The apostle Paul had a deep commitment to spiritual unity. He told the Philippian Christians that they would fulfill his joy if they would be agreeing wholeheartedly and working together with one mind and purpose. This is consistent with the fervent prayer of our Lord Jesus as He prayed for spiritual unity (John 17:2023). It is also consistent with the experience of the early church (Acts 2:4247) and with the teaching of the apostles (Eph 4:36; 1 Pet 3:8).
(Eph 4:36/2 Chr 30:12*) P.A.C.

When he appeared in human form,* he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminals death on a cross. Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, kiNgdoM dYNaMicS

Word WeaLtH
2:3 selfish, eritheia (er-ith-eye-ah); Strongs #2052: A word that regressed from denoting honorable work to suggesting dishonorable intrigue. Originally, it meant a field-worker or reaper, and then anyone working for pay, a hireling. Eritheia later described a person who was concerned only with his own welfare, a person susceptible to being bribed, an ambitious, self-willed person seeking opportunities for promotion. From there it became electioneering, a partisan factious spirit that would resort to any method for winning followers.

2:8 Humility, CHRISTLIKENESS. Human perspectives on humility distort the idea, often humbling people by loveless actions that rob them of dignity and nobility. But Christlike humility is manifested in the freedom of Gods Son to affirm the fullness of all God has placed in Him, without needing to flaunt, prove, or push it through self-advancement. Jesus complete absence of any need to cling to power or attention is manifest humility. It is the royal spirit that the King of heaven Himself displayed in servantlike graciousness. Just as Christs humility received ultimate exaltation (vv. 911), so our call to humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor points to the way for the rise of Gods highest purpose in each of us (Jas 4:10). Humbling ourselves opens us up to increased grace (v. 6; 1 Pet 5:5), and childlikeness is the doorway to the dynamism of Kingdom of Heaven in our life and service (Matt 18:4).
(Mark 14:26/John 4:23/Matt 9:36) F.P.

Dont be selfish; dont try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Dont look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.
3

Word WeaLtH
2:9 elevated, huperupsoo (hoop-er-oopsah-oh); Strongs #5251: From huper, over, and hupsoo, to lift up. Thus, the word suggests an exaltation to the highest position, an elevation above all others. The context contrasts humiliation and resulting honors. Jesus obedience to death is followed by a super-exalted position of honor and glory.

Though he was God,* he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. 7 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges*; he took the humble position of a slave* and was born as a human being.
6

2:8 John 10:1718 Heb 5:8; 12:2 See WW at Matt 18:4. 2:9 Eph 1:2021 Heb 1:34 See WW at Col 3:13. See WW at John 12:13.

2:6Or Being in the form of God. 2:7aGreek he emptied himself. 2:7bOr the form of a slave. 2:7cSome English translations put this phrase in verse 8.

2:511 See section 1 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 2:511 Paul uses the example of Christ to enforce an appeal for unselfishness. As Christ willingly laid aside His heavenly glory to come to Earth and die, we should be willing to look beyond our own interests for (Dont... only ... but... too, v. 4) the sake of others. Although his purpose is to strengthen his exhortation rather than to establish doctrine, Paul here presents one of the greatest statements in the NT concerning the Person and work of Jesus Christ. 2:6 He was God: The essence of Jesus Christ is the very same as that of the Father, for He is Himself God (see Heb 1:3). Did not think of equality with God as something to cling

to references the fact Jesus saw His being God as something to be given away, not selfishly grasped. He willingly became a human being on our behalf, relinquishing His glory though retaining His deity. 2:7 The reality of the Incarnation is expressed in the complete self-renunciation of Christ as He gave up his divine privileges (see marginal note). He veiled the manifestations of deity and assumed real humanity. Human being... human form suggests that Jesus was really a man, but not merely a man. His humanity was genuine, yet His being was still divine. 2:9 The exaltation of Christ is in consequence of His humbling Himself by means of His redemptive work.

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that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
10

Shine Brightly for Christ 12 Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. 13 For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. 14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, 15 so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. 16 Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christs return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless. 17 But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God,* just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. 18Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy. Paul Commends Timothy 19 If the Lord Jesus is willing, I hope to send Timothy to you soon for a visit. Then he can cheer me up by telling me how you are getting along. 20 I have no one else like Timothy, who genuinely cares about your welfare. 21 All the others care only for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ. 22 But you know how Timothy has proved himself.

2:10 Isa 45:23 Rom 14:11 2:11 John 13:13 2:12 See WW at Rom 6:17. See WW at Luke 19:9. See WW at 1Jn 4:18. 2:13 Rom 8:28 1 Cor 12:6 Heb 13:21 See WW at 1Thes 2:13. 2:14 1 Cor 10:10 See WW at Luke 2:35. 2:15 Matt 5:45 John 12:36 Eph 5:1 2:16 1 Thes 2:19 See WW at Acts 19:20. 2:17 Rom 15:16 2 Tim 4:6 See WW at Luke 1:23. 2:20 1 Cor 16:10 2:21 1 Cor 10:24 2:22 1 Cor 4:17 1 Tim 1:2 2:24 Phil 1:2526 See WW at 2Thes 3:4. 2:25 Phil 4:18 See WW at Heb 1:7. 2:26 Phil 1:8 2:27 See WW at Rom 9:15. 2:29 1 Cor 16:16, 18 1 Tim 5:17 2:30 1 Cor 16:17 See WW at Luke 1:23. 3:1 Phil 2:18; 4:4 3:2 Ps 22:16, 20 Rev 22:15

Like a son with his father, he has served with me in preaching the Good News. 23 I hope to send him to you just as soon as I find out what is going to happen to me here. 24 And I have confidence from the Lord that I myself will come to see you soon.

Paul Commends Epaphroditus 25 Meanwhile, I thought I should send Epaphroditus back to you. He is a true brother, co- worker, and fellow soldier. And he was your messenger to help me in my need. 26 I am sending him because he has been longing to see you, and he was very distressed that you heard he was ill. 27 And he certainly was ill; in fact, he almost died. But God had mercy on him and also on me, so that I would not have one sorrow after another. 28 So I am all the more anxious to send him back to you, for I know you will be glad to see him, and then I will not be so worried about you. 29 Welcome him with Christian love* and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him deserve. 30 For he risked his life for the work of Christ, and he was at the point of death while doing for me what you couldnt do from far away.

The Priceless Value of Knowing Christ Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters,* rejoice in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you these things, and I do it to safeguard your faith. 2 Watch out for those dogs, those people who do evil, those mutilators who say you must be circumcised to be saved. 3 For we who worship by the Spirit of God* are the ones who are truly circumcised. We rely on what Christ Jesus has done for us. We put no confidence in human effort, 4 though I could have confidence in my own effort if
3:3 John 4:21 24 Rom 2:29 Gal 6:15 Col 2:11

2:17Greek I will rejoice even if I am to be poured out as a liquid offering. 2:29Greek in the Lord. 3:1Greek brothers; also in 3:13, 17. 3:3Some manuscripts read worship God in spirit; one early manuscript reads worship in spirit.

2:10, 11 Christs exaltation is absolute; His lordship is universal, although it will not be universally recognized until His return (see Rev 1:7). 2:12, 13 See section 1 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 2:12 In view of the obedience of Christ and His lordship, the Philippians should show a like obedience. Paul does not teach that salvation is dependent on ones continued works, but that salvation must express itself in progressive Christian living and upright character, not only individually, but through obedient participation in Gods corporate call to a local church. 2:13 Without denying mans freedom, Paul stresses Gods part in mans salvation, both in its initial resolution and in its subsequent progress. Paul addresses this matter because our will is by nature in bondage to the flesh. 2:15 As the heavenly bodies shine forth in brightness against the blackness of the night, so the lives of true Christians lighten the moral darkness of the world. 2:1923 Timothy often functioned as Pauls personal envoy (1Cor 4:17; 16:10, 11; 1 Thes 3:6). His purpose in going to Philippi is both to encourage the Christians there and to bring back to Paul news of their welfare.

2:20, 21 See section 1 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 2:24 Paul is confident of his release from prison. His expectation was fulfilled soon after he wrote this letter. 2:2530 Epaphroditus, as the representative of the Philippian church, has assumed great risk in rendering service to Christ. In effect, he has gambled with his life, displaying reckless courage. 3:1, 2 Paul issues a harsh warning against the Judaizers, Jewish Christians who taught that observance of the Law was necessary for salvation and who constantly sought to sabotage his gospel message of free grace. The word mutilators in v. 2 is a parody. The legalists (on whom Paul turns the table by using a deriding term some Jews used of Gentiles, dogs) taught the necessity of circumcision, but in reality a physical ritual without rightness of heart is nothing more than worthless mutilation of the flesh. 3:3 The true sign of a right relation to God is not the observance of an external rite but a manifestation of the three characteristics mentioned. Worship by the Spirit not only refers to ones being alive in the spirit (John 4:24) and thereby qualified for living worship, but also includes the Holy Spirits enablement in expanded worship expressions: in song (Eph 5:18, 19), in prayer and singing (1 Cor 14:15), and in communion with God (1 Cor 14:1, 2).

1552 I P H i L ippia N S 3 : 5
3:4 See WW at John 14:16. 3:5 Luke 1:59; 2:21 Acts 23:6 Rom 11:1 2 Cor 11:22 3:6 Acts 8:3; 22:4; 26:911 Rom 10:5 Gal 1:13 See WW at 2Cor 11:2. 3:7 Matt 13:44 Luke 14:33 3:8 John 17:3 Eph 4:13 2 Pet 3:18 3:9 Rom 1:17; 3:2122; 9:30; 10:3 Gal 2:16 2 Pet 1:1 3:10 Rom 6:35; 8:17, 29 Gal 6:17 See WW at Acts 23:6. 3:11 Acts 26:8 1 Cor 15:23 Rev 20:56

kiNgdoM dYNaMicS 3:3 Spiritual Worship, PRAISE AND WORSHIP. Paul emphasizes the worship of those who have identified with Christ (having their heart circumcised, paring away carnal reserve in worship as well as removing all dependence on the works of the flesh for their salvation) is to be in or by the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit is to be invited into and involved in our worshipenlarging, equipping, and expanding us in praisefilled, Christ-exalting, God-honoring ways that bring the spiritual impetus required for true worship.
(John 4:23, 24/Col 3:16) L.B.

kiNgdoM dYNaMicS
3:10 To Know Him, GROWING IN KNOWING. This passage sums up Pauls primary pursuit in life: to know Christ. From a prison cell in Rome, Paul pens this personal letter in which he comes to terms with an accomplished past and a confining present. After his past as a persecutor of Gods people and through his superior religious activities as a Pharisee, Paul came to the liberating conclusion that all is garbage compared to knowing the Lord! (v. 8). Freed from the stagnation of yesterdays victories and the emotional paralysis of yesterdays mistakes, Paul knew that the only thing that ultimately counted was knowing the Lord and being obedient to His will. Not only was his past subsumed by this singular passion, his present imprisonment could not snatch from him the joy of knowing Christ. Prison chains could not keep him from pursuing God, nor dull his effectiveness in ministry (1:1214). Pauls desire to know Christ sprang from no other motive but to enjoy Him. He wanted Christ for Christs sake, not his own. He was a lover of God, not a user of God. And whether he moved in Christs resurrection power or was stretched to his last ounce of endurance, it mattered little. For Paul, it was all a part of the most fulfilling journey of all: truly knowing God.
(*/Jer 9:23, 24) S.F.

anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more! 5 I was circumcised when I was eight days old. I am a pure- blooded citizen of Israel and a member of the tribe of Benjamin a real Hebrew if there ever was one! I was a member of the Pharisees, who demand the strictest obedience to the Jewish law. 6 I was so zealous that I harshly persecuted the church. And as for righteousness, I obeyed the law without fault. 7 I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. 8Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ 9 and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ.* For Gods way of making us right with himself depends on faith. 10 I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, 11 so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!

3:12 Acts 9:56 1 Tim 6:12, 19 See WW at 1Jn 2:5. See WW at John 1:5. 3:13 Luke 9:62 3:14 1 Cor 9:24 2 Tim 4:7 8 Heb 12:1

Pressing toward the Goal 12 I dont mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. 13 No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it,* but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

3:9Or through the faithfulness of Christ. 3:13Some manuscripts read not yet achieved it.

3:416 Paul gives his personal testimony as an example that one must put no confidence in his own achievements, but must rely entirely on Christ. 3:5 Paul was a genuine Jew by birth, not a proselyte. Furthermore, he was a pure-blooded citizen of Israel, directly descended from Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His tribe was the elite of Israel, and he was a real Hebrew in that his family retained Hebrew customs and spoke the Hebrew language. 3:6 Paul had scrupulously observed the external demands of the Law and fanatically tried to wipe out all opponents of Judaism (see Acts 8:3). 3:711 See section 2 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 3:7 What Paul had considered assets became liabilities. He laid aside all human achievements in order to receive the free grace of God.

3:8 Knowing Christ involves not merely an intellectual apprehension, but rather an experiential knowledge resulting from personal communion with Christ. In contrast to the life Paul now has, his former manner of life is garbage, scraps fit only to be thrown to the dogs. 3:9 See section 3 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 3:10 Knowing Christ not only means experiencing the power of the risen Lord, but also sharing His sufferings. 3:11 One way or another: Not an expression of doubt, but of deep humility and earnest striving. 3:1214 See section 2 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 3:13 Looking forward: The imagery is that of a runner on the course straining every muscle as he runs toward the goal, his hand stretched out to grasp it.

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Let all who are spiritually mature agree on these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain to you. 16 But we must hold on to the progress we have already made. 17 Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example. 18 For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. 19They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth. 20 But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. 21 He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control.
15

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters,* stay true to the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work.

Words of Encouragement 2 Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. 3 And I ask you, my true partner,* to help these two women, for they worked hard with me in telling others the Good News. They worked along with Clement and the rest of my co- workers, whose names are written in the Book of Life. 4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it againrejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. 6 Dont worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience Gods peace,
4:1Greek brothers; also in 4:8. 4:3Or loyal Syzygus.

3:15 1 Cor 2:6 Phil 1:910 See WW at Jas 3:2. 3:17 1 Cor 4:16 1 Pet 5:3 3:18 Gal 6:12 3:19 Rom 8:56; 16:18 3:20 Eph 2:19 Col 3:13 Heb 12:2223 See WW at John 4:42. 3:21 Rom 8:29 1 Cor 15:28, 4353 Col 3:4 1 Jn 3:2 See WW at Col 2:12. See WW at Jude 24. See WW at 1 Cor 14:32. 4:1 Phil 1:8 4:2 Phil 2:2 4:3 Exod 32:3233 Ps 69:28 Dan 12:1 Rev 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:12, 15; 21:27 4:4 Phil 3:1 4:5 Heb 10:37 Jas 5:89 See WW at 1Tim 3:3. 4:6 Matt 6:25 1 Pet 5:7 See WW at Matt 6:25. 4:7 Isa 26:3 John 14:27 See WW at 1Pet 1:5. 4:8 See WW at Rom 3:4. See WW at 1Tim 3:11. See WW at 1Jn 3:3. See WW at 2Pet 1:5. See WW at Eph 1:6. 4:9 Rom 15:33; 16:20 1 Cor 14:33 1 Thes 5:23

kiNgdoM dYNaMicS 4:15 The Meaning of Unity in Christ, CALL TO UNITY. No two people contradicted the meaning of their names as much as Euodia and Syntyche. The name of Eu odia means Good or Prosperous Journey; Syntyche means Pleasant Acquaintance or Good Luck. But, despite their names, these two caused dissension in the church at Philippi. Paul called on them to settle their differences and asked the whole church to help them. He was direct with Euodia and Syntyche, asking them to be of the same mind in the Lord. Differences in personality should not separate us from unity in Christ. Our task is not to make others into replicas of us. We must honor the uniqueness of each person. Unity in Christ also means setting aside secondary issues like denominational differences or cultural patterns. Agreement on basics is what is important. Most important of all is mutual forgiveness. Paul suggested, Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do (v. 5). Finally, we need to get together with the fellow believer with whom we are having a battle of wills and ask Christ to permeate our conversations. We need to ask for the mind and disposition of Christ. What would He say to both sides? He is at hand; He died to make us one and will settle for nothing less.
(Eph 4:116/3 Jn 3) L.O.

which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. 8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.

3:15 See section 2 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 3:1721 In addition to the Judaizers, other carnal believers stood to affect the Philippians by advocating a perversion of Christian liberty and taking freedom from the Law as license to sin. 3:20 Paul again reminds his readers that, although they may be citizens of Rome, they have a higher citizenship and really are only aliens on this Earth. 4:3 Paul appeals to a member of the Philippian church to reconcile two women who were in disagreement. Although various suggestions have been made concerning the identity of the true partner, including the theory that the Greek word here is a proper name, Syzygus, it remains unknown. Book of Life: A reference from Judaism (see Exod 32:32, 33; Ps 69:28), metaphorically used to note believers lives are known by God in heaven (see Luke 10:20).

4:47 See section 4 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 4:4 Christians are commanded to rejoice under all circumstances, and obedience is possible because true joy is in the Lord. Therefore, Christians can be inwardly joyful when everything around is dreary (see 4:12; Hab 3:17, 18; 2 Cor 6:10). 4:6, 7 Prayer and peace are closely connected. One who entrusts cares to Christ instead of fretting over them will experience the peace of God to guard him from nagging anxiety. 4:8, 9 See section 1 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 4:8 Character and conduct begin in the mind. Our actions are affected by the things we dwell on in our thoughts. Paul cautions his readers to concentrate on things that will result in right living and in Gods peace (v. 9).

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Word WeaLtH
4:8 admirable, euphemos (yoo-fay-moss); Strongs #2163: Compare euphemism and euphemistic. A combination of eu, well, and pheme, a saying. Euphemos is speech that is gracious, auspicious, praiseworthy, and fair-sounding. It includes the avoidance of words of ill omen. An OT counterpart is found in Proverbs 16:24: Kind words are like honeysweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

Pauls Thanks for Their Gifts 10 How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didnt have the chance to help me. 11 Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. 13 For I can do everything through Christ,* who gives me strength. 14 Even so, you have done well to share with me in my present difficulty. 15 As you know, you Philippians were the only ones who gave me financial help when I first brought you the Good News and then traveled on from Macedonia. No other church did this. 16 Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once. 17 I dont say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness. 18 At the moment I have all I need and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with Epaphroditus. They are a sweet- smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. 20 Now all glory to God our Father forever and ever! Amen.
4:13Greek through the one.

4:10 2 Cor 11:9 4:11 1 Tim 6:6 4:12 1 Cor 4:11 2 Cor 11:9 See WW at Matt 18:4. See WW at Matt 5:6. See WW at Luke 22:35. 4:13 2 Cor 12:9 10 4:14 Phil 1:7 Heb 10:3334 See WW at John 16:33. 4:15 2 Cor 11:8 9 Phil 1:5 4:16 Acts 17:1 1 Thes 2:9 4:17 1 Cor 9:11 4:18 2 Cor 9:12 Phil 2:25 See WW at Phlm 15. 4:19 Ps 23:1 2 Cor 9:8 4:20 Rom 11:36

Pauls Final Greetings 21 Give my greetings to each of Gods holy people all who belong to Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send you their greetings. 22 And all the rest of Gods people send you greetings, too, especially those in Caesars household. 23 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
kiNgdoM dYNaMicS
4:12, 13 Abundance Is Not Our Point of Trust, GODS ABUNDANCE. Let this scripture be a guiding light to understanding Gods will on the subject of prosperity. It tells us yes (we can have riches), and no (do not trust in them). With the mind of Christ (see Phil 2:15), we will never become high-minded if blessed with wealth. Here is assurance that if our lives are geared to the Word of God, then, through Christ, we can experience either financial wealth or temporary setback, but we will still be steadfast in our living, all because our trust will be only in Him. If the economy should dissolve tomorrow, Gods people would not be rendered inoperative, because God is our source. He can keep us through times of scarcity as well as in times of plenty. He fed Elijah by sending ravens to bring him food in the morning and evening (1 Kgs 17:26). God can do that now. He is the same today as He was then.
(1 Tim 6:17/John 10:10) F.K.C.P.

Word WeaLtH
4:23 Jesus, Iesous (Yay-soos); Strongs #2424: The Greek transliteration of the Hebrew Yeshua, He Shall Save, which is the shorter form of Yehoshua (Joshua), Yahweh Is Salvation. It was a common male Jewish name. Ten men in the OT were named Yeshua, and three men in the NT, in addition to the Lord, were so named.

4:22 Phil 1:13 4:23 Rom 16:20 Gal 6:18 2 Tim 4:22 Phlm 1:25

4:10 Paul expresses no complaint over the delay in attending to his material needs. Rather, he acknowledges that the Philippians maintained a concern for him all along, but they lacked the opportunity to send help. That chance had been provided by Epaphroditus. 4:11, 12 See section 4 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 4:11 The satisfaction of Pauls material needs was neither the reason nor the measure of his joy. Content: The Stoics used this word to describe a person who was self-sufficient in all circumstances. In contrast, though he uses the Stoic word, Paul expressly disclaims mere self-sufficiency (see 2 Cor 3:5; 9:9). His sufficiency is in Christ, whose peace and purpose he enjoys regardless of lifes circumstances. (v. 13).

4:13 See section 4 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians. 4:13 I can do everything: It is important to note that the emphasis is not so much on achievement as it is on willingness to allow Christs power to sustain in difficulty and scarcity, and to enhance the enjoyment of abundance and prosperity. Such faith is a stimulant to believe for all Christs sufficiency in facing all lifes circumstances. 4:17 Paul emphasizes the importance of the Philippians gifts as investments yielding spiritual fruit. 4:22 Caesars household most likely refers to the slaves and servants in and around the imperial palace.

TrUtH iN ActioN
THROUGH PH I LI ppIANS

Letting the Life of the Holy Spirit Bring Faiths Works Alive in You!

TrUtH
PHiLippiaNS TeacHeS TeXt
2:14

ActioN
PHiLippiaNS INviteS
Consider others more important than yourself. Diligently seek unity with other believers in your thoughts, attitudes, love, spirit, and purpose. Be concerned about the things that are important to others. Follow Jesus example of humility. Be willing to lay down your rights and reputation for the sake of the Good News. Humble yourself, and serve others as a servant of Christ. Express Gods gracious work of salvation in you through your obedience to Him. Recognize that God gives you the desire and ability to do what pleases Him. Be willing to lay down selsh desires. Learn to control your thought life. Practice focusing your thoughts on things that are pure, lovely, virtuous, and praiseworthy. Consider everything loss compared to knowing Jesus. Being in Christ through faith enables you to know Him in His resurrection power and to suffer with him, sharing in his death. Forget the past, and reach for those things still ahead. Earnestly pursue the goal of the heavenly call of God in Christ. Seek to know Him. Recognize that wholehearted, focused pursuit of Jesus is a mark of mature Christianity and devotion.

1Growing in Godliness

Jesus is our mentor and our model. He chose to empty Himself, laying down His reputation and rights. In taking the form of a man, He did not choose wealth and power, but came as a servant, dying a criminals death. In everything, Jesus humbled Himself; therefore, God highly exalted Him. The call to godliness is a call to discipleship. As Jesus disciples, we have the opportunity to lay down our rights and reputations and to give our lives in service to others for the sake of the Good News and the glory of God.

2:511

2:12, 13

2:20, 21; 4:8, 9 3:711

Dynamic 2Cultivating Devotion

Seek to be a man or woman after Gods own heart, devoting yourself to the pursuit of intimacy with God. Ask the Holy Spirit to birth in you a deep hunger and longing for more of Jesus. Ask Him to place in your heart a burning desire to know God in a greater way than ever before. Seek Him with all of your heart and soul, and you will nd Him (Deut 4:29). Philippians teaches that righteousness, holiness, and purity of any kind can come only through faith in Jesus Christ. We are all partakers of this grace.

3:1214

3:15

3Pursuing Holiness 4The Walk of Faith

1:7 3:9

Recognize that every believer can partake of grace. It is by grace that we are saved (Eph 2:8). Acknowledge that righteousness and holiness do not come from the law or by following a code of ethics. Righteousness comes through faith in Christ Jesus alone. Believe with condence that God will accomplish the good work He started in you. Do not fear death because being in heaven with Jesus will be wonderful. Seek to live each day on Earth for the purposes and glory of our Lord Jesus. Recognize and embrace the truth that the life of faith often involves suffering for Jesus sake. Know with confidence that Jesus is present with you amid suffering. Rejoice always and pray continuously. Consciously practice responding to various circumstances with joy and prayer instead of anxiety and worry. Ask the Lord to help you. Learn to be content in all circumstances. Contentment will bring great freedom to your life. Believe that when God asks you to do something, He is able to provide the strength you need to do it

As we walk in faith, we must learn to see our present circumstances in light of the future promises of God. Though we are works in progress now, we have hope knowing that God will complete the work He is doing in us. We can endure suffering now because we know that it is momentary compared to the eternity we will spend in the glorious presence of Jesus. We can be content in every circumstance now, knowing that we will have all of Gods riches in glory. Walk by faith and set your eyes on Jesus until you see Him face to face.

1:6 1:2124

1:29, 30

4:47

4:11, 12 4:13