New Spirit Filled Life

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

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kenneth C. Ulmer, Ph.D., D.Min.

OLD TESTAMENT EDITORS Judy Brown, Ed.D. Roy Hayden, Ph.D.

NEW TESTAMENT EDITORS Jonathan David Huntzinger, Ph.D. Gary Matsdorf, M.A.

Thomas Nelson Publishers

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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 God’s 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.

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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.

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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 18 I P s a l m 1 0 9 : 1 3 developed coverage of forty-one themes referred wine is found in the cluster” and that “a blessing is 3 † 109:14 But I, your servant, will goThese right on May all his offspring die. to as “Kingdom Dynamics.” in it” (NKJV). “clusters,” each representing a Neh 4:5 This term is derived rejoicing!†general category of spiritual truth, and the compoMay his family name be blotted out in Isa 65:6– 7experiential evidence from abounding biblical and 29 ◊ See WW at May my accusers be parts clothed with one expand on key “new wine” the next generation. that verifies proven biblical nent of each Lev 9:2. principles and values 4 disgrace; principles of Bible-centered, Spirit-filled life and † 109:15 May the Lord never forget the sins of his as essential for the dynamic spread and effective Jer 16:17 may their humiliation cover them like fathers; advance of the “Good† News ministry—proven to manifest “blessing” as Jesus’ 109:16 about the Kingdom” Ps 37:32 a cloak.† may his mother’s ◊sins never be Jesus commissioned to†be “preached 30throughout the name is lifted up, souls are drawn to Him, lives are 109:17 But I will give repeated thanksand to the ord, Matt 7:2Understanding erased from the record.† whole world” (Matt 24:14). of and transformed, the LKingdom is advanced through † 109:18 praising him to everyone.† 5 faithful attention to these truths have His servants—dynamically enabled to do His will.

May the Lord always remember these sins, Ps 73:6values and 31 For hepeople stands beside the needy, † 109:19 characterized the church where God’s Wherever one of these timeless topics is menand may his name always disappear from Ezek 7:27 ready to save them from those who move in the fullness of power Jesus promised would tioned in Scripture, it is highlighted (keyed with human memory.† † 109:20 condemn them.† IsaHis 3:11 commissions (Acts 6 enabletothe fulfillment of 1:8). a dove symbol and gray-screened to set it apart For he refused all kindness others; 2 Tim 4:14 pastors, teachers, evangelists, and other from the Bible text). Each entry follows this format: † 109:21 he persecuted the poorGodly and needy, Ps 25:11 leaders havetocontributed chapter(s) and verse(s) being referenced, title of the and he hounded thekey brokenhearted Ezek 36:22 to the provision of psalm of David. article under its larger topic (abbreviated † 109:22 the wisdom, insight, and spiritual instructionAconparticular death.† Ps 40:17 7 tained in these Kingdom Dynamics 1articles.

Their in capital letters), and commentary.

Prov 18:14 He loved to curse others; The Lord said toform my Lord,* ◊ See WW at now you curse him.

“Sit in the place of honor at my right Ps 40:17. † 109:24 He never blessed others; hand Heb 12:12 until I humble your enemies, now don’t you bless him.† † 109:26 8 making them a footstool under your Cursing is as natural to him as his clothing, Ps 119:86 feet.”† or the water he drinks, or the rich food he eats.† 2 The L ord will extend your powerful 9 Now may his curses return and cling to kingdom from Jerusalem*; him like clothing; you will rule over your enemies.† 3 may they be tied around him like a When you go to war, belt.”† your people will serve you willingly.

0 You are arrayed in holy ◊garments, May those curses become the Lord’s and your strength will be renewed punishment each day like the morning dew.† for my accusers who speak evil of me.† 1 But deal well with me, O Sovereign Lord, for the sake of your own reputation!

Rescue me kIngdom dynamIcs because you are so faithful and 110:1 Victory in the Fullness of the Holy good.† Spirit, HOLY SPIRIT FULLNESS. Peter’s last 2 For I am ◊poor and needy, quotation in his Pentecost Day message is and my heart is full of pain.† this prophecy of David (Acts 2:34, 35). Sig3 I am fading like a shadow at dusk; nificantly, he links the promise of ultimate † 109:28 I am brushed off like a locust. victory with the coming of the Holy Spirit.

2 Sam 16:11– 4 12 My knees are weak from fasting, The fullest understanding of this scripture † 109:29 and I am skin and bones.† cannot be limited to the human, political, Job 8:22 5 Ps 35:26 I am a joke to people everywhere; or institutional adversaries faced, since a † 109:30 when they see me, they shake their broader understanding of our spiritual adPs 35:18 † 109:31 heads in scorn. versaries is found in Ephesians 6:12. Peter Pss 16:8; 37:33 † 110:1 unlocks the significance of David’s decla6 Help me, O Lord my God! *Matt 22:44 ration of victory as he proclaims another *Mark 12:36; Save me because of your unfailing 14:62 dimension of its fulfillment in Acts 2:33–35. *Luke 20:42 love.† The Messiah’s manifest victory extends to *Acts 2:34 7 Let them see that this is your doing, *Heb 1:13 the church itself, as the NT teaches how † 110:2 that you yourself have done it, Lord. each believer shares in the authority of Ps 45:6 8 Dan 7:13–14 Then let them curse me if they like, what Jesus the Messiah has done in van† 110:3 but you will bless me!

Judg 5:2 quishing all adversaries (see Eph 1:22).

Ps 96:9 When they attack me, they will be (*/Isa 28:11, 12) S.G.B. ◊ See WW at disgraced!

Ps 8:5.

110

10:1 Or my lord. 110:2 Hebrew Zion.

109:25 Heads: The bystanders reviled Christ on the Cross and hook their heads in contempt (Matt 27:39).

110:1–7 The lord: This psalm is considered by Jews and Christians like to be messianic, and this interpretation is confirmed by Jesus’ wn use of it to prove His deity (Luke 20:42).

110:1 my lord: That is, the Lord of the universe (Yahweh) told David’s Lord (’Adonai, the Messiah) to rejoice. Many NT writers NSFL_00_Front_130221.indd 12

quote this verse. The word said is a unique word which only refers to inspired prophetic utterances. For footstool see Joshua 10:24, 25.

110:2 Rule: As Paul showed in 1 Corinthians 15:25, Christ is ruling now among enemies.

110:3 Similar to 2 Samuel 23:4, this is a picturesque description of a new king rising to the throne.

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Strong’s #3954: Outspokenness, unreserved utterance, freedom of speech, with frankness, candor, cheerful courage, and the opposite of cowardice, timidity, or fear. Here it denotes a divine enablement that comes to ordinary and unprofessional people exhibting spiritual power and authority. It also refers to a clear presentation of the gospel without being ambiguous or unintelligible.

Parrhesia is not a human quality but a result of being filled with the Holy Spirit.

lying to us but to God!” 5 As soon as Ananias heard these words, he fell to the floor and died. Everyone who heard about it was terrified.† 6 Then some young men got up, wrapped him in a sheet, 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. Strong’s numbers in you even think of conspiring to ◊test the better understand God’s Word. That is why de- regular type refer to the numbers from the Hebrew Spirit of the Lord like this? The young men are included dictionary in the back of Strong’s. Strong’s numbers Word WeAltHtailed, easy-to-understand definitions 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.”† 4:33 powerfully, dunamis (doo-nam-is); Each Word Wealth listing is located within the Greek dictionary in the back of Strong’s. In the cen10 Instantly, she fell to the floor and died.

Strong’s #1411: 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 words. The others are exousia, delegated autheher locations ofburied related Word Wealth entries. Word appears. English spellings of original Greek and He-carried she was dead, they out and hority; ischuros, great strength (especially key passages and expands your brew words are given, along withher helpful insight into Wealth 11 beside her husband.

Greatilluminates fear gripped physical); and kratos, dominion authority. understanding the derivation, as well as the Strong’s Concordance the entire church andoverall everyone else who of Scripture.

Dunamis means energy, power, might, great heard what had happened. force, great ability, strength. It is sometimes used to describe the powers of the world to the Apostles Heal Many come at work upon the Earth and divine 12 The apostles were performing many mipower overcoming all resistance. (Compare raculous signs and wonders among the “dynamic,” “dynamite,” and “dynamomeer.”) The dunamis in Jesus resulted in drapeople. And all the believers were ◊meeting matic transformations. This is the norm for regularly at the Temple in the area known he Spirit-filled and Spirit-led church. as Solomon’s Colonnade.† 13 But no one else dared to join them, even though all the people had high regard for them.† 14Yet more ecause those who owned land or houses and more people believed and were brought ould sell them 35 and bring the money to to the Lord—crowds of both men and women. he apostles to give to those in need.

15 As a result of the apostles’ work, sick peo36 For instance, there was Joseph, the one ple were brought out into the streets on beds he apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which

eans “Son of ◊Encouragement”). He was om the tribe of Levi and came from the land of Cyprus.† 37 He sold a field he owned nd brought the money to the apostles.

nanias and sapphira But there was a certain man named Ananias who, with his wife, Sapphira, old some property. 2 He brought part of the oney to the apostles, claiming it was the ull amount. With his wife’s consent, he kept he rest.† 3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, why have you t Satan fill your heart? You lied to the Holy pirit, and you kept some of the money for

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Acts 4:34–35, 37

Word Wealth

† 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 16:15–20 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); Strong’s #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).

1–11 Ananias and sapphira were judged for their hypocrisy and The believer’s best defense against self-deception is through mutual ng to God, not for their decision to retain some of their personal accountability to one another (especially to a local congregation, operty for themselves (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. ch a small offense may seem intolerantFollowing and gracelessis(see an Luke index providing this information about each entry: 1)SeeEnglish word treated; 2) Greek 2; 2 Corinthians 10:4, 5; Ephesians 5:17–20.

54, 55), but it was necessary both to or establish apostolic authority Romans Hebrew transliteration; and12:1, 3) the Scripture reference where the Word Wealth definition is located. the early church and to safeguard the church’s purity. A sobering 5:12 signs and wonders characterized the ministry of the early son is that Satan has the power to distort the thinking of Chris- church and are equally intended to be expected in and through Word Index 12:1–31. ns (v. 3), thus affirming 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

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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, mal’ach . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Chr 32:21 angels, angelos . . . . . . . . . . . . Matt 4:11 anger (observable, fierce), ’aph . . . . Judg 10:7 anger (from repeated irritation), cha‘as . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Kgs 16:2 angry, embrimaomai . . . . . . . . . John 11:38

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Truth-In-Action Truth-In-Action is an intensely practical feature showing you ways to apply the Bible’s great truths. Appearing in chart form, this study help summarizes the foundations and teachings of each book, then invites you—and shows you how—to 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 believer’s response. Together these passages are summarized with action words that offer specific steps you can take to let God guide your life—at work, at home—at all times.

TruTh in AcTion t h ro u g h Is a Ia h

Letting the Life of the Holy Spirit Bring Faith’s Works Alive in You!

TruTh isAiAh TeAches

1

growing in godliness

Isaiah wrote during a time when God’s people sought empty forms of religion and rituals over a genuine, life-changing relationship with Him. Today, God’s 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 God’s presence, motivated by love, and sustained through relationship.

Dynamic 2Cultivating Devotion

AcTion TexT

isAiAh inviTes

58:1–5

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.

58:6–14

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.

7:14

Recognize that Jesus is God’s sign to us. Born of a virgin, He is Immanuel, God with us (Matt 1:23; Luke 1:27–33).

The Book of Isaiah presents a beautiful prophetic pictureOld of Testament Truth-In-Action Charts 9:2–7 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 (BookPrince One: Psalms 1—41) . . . . . . . 665 Father, of Peace. restore people to God. Reading Exodus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

123 Psalms (Book Two: Psalms 42—72) . . . . . . 686 these verses and seeing Jesus in 11:1–10 the “heir David’s throne,” Jesus .the Leviticus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

160 Seek Psalms (BooktoThree: Psalms 73—89) . . .Messi . 700 all of His splendor and majesty, ah.

Ask to(Book be filled with the Spirit of the Lord that Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212 Psalms Four: Psalms 90—106) . . . . . 714 compassion and mercy sparks upon Jesus.

Deuteronomy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255 rested Psalms (Book Five: Psalms 107—150) . . . . . 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 who He is, that spark becomes 53:1–12 1for Samuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

367 Surrender Isaiah . .your . . .life . .to.Jesus, . . . the . . Righteous . . . . . .One. . 890 flame 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 4:14–16; Hosea . 7:25). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1077 Ezra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:18–20 . . . 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.

6:1–8 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 ask God to use you. every conceivable way in order to bring His people back to Himself, 8:19, 20 Do not go to or consult mediums, fortune-tellers, restore them, and bless them. Like or psychics. Go to the Living God, and seek His Israel, our sin separates us from wisdom and counsel. In God and in His Word you NSFL_00_Front_130221.indd 23 2/21/13 our Holy God. In His mercy, God will find the answers and the light you seek.

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The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the

PHILIPPIANS

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 (1:21–23).

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 Paul’s thinking 61, to thank them for the contribution he had re- is seen in his five references to Christ’s 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 16:12–40 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 Paul’s ministry (4:15, 16; see 2 Cor 11:8, 9). Paul enjoyed a closer friendship with the Philippians than with any other church.

Author: Paul

Characteristics

In many respects, this is the most beautiful of Paul’s letters, full of tenderness, warmth, and affection.

His style is spontaneous, personal, and informal, presenting us with an intimate diary of Paul’s 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 apostle’s very life.

Personal Application

Content

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 (2:5–11). In doing so, he presents the most concise statement in the

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

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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 again—rejoice!” (4:4).

Christ Revealed

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

God’s 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 1:1–11 A. Salutation 1:1, 2 B. Thanksgiving 1:3–8 C. Prayer 1:9–11 I. Circumstances of Paul’s imprisonment 1:12–26 A. Had advanced the Good News 1:12–18 B. Had brought assurance of blessing 1:19–21 C. Had created a dilemma for Paul 1:22–26 II. Exhortations 1:27—2:18 A. Live worthy of the Good News 1:27—2:4 B. Reproduce the mind of Christ 2:5–11 C. Cultivate the spiritual life 2:12, 13

Greetings from Paul This letter is from Paul and Timothy, slaves of Christ Jesus.

I am writing to all of God’s 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.†

1

Paul’s 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.†

D. Leave off murmurings and questionings 2:14–18 III. Commendation of and plans for Paul’s companions 2:19–30 A. Timothy 2:19–24 B. Epaphroditus 2:25–30 IV. Warnings against error 3:1–21 A. Against the Judaizers 3:1–16 B. Against sensualism 3:17–21 Conclusion 4:1–23 A. Final appeals 4:1–9 B. Acknowledgment of the Philippians’ gift 4:10–20 C. Greetings 4:21, 22 D. Benediction 4:23

† 1:1 Acts 16:1 2 Cor 1:1 Col 1:1 Phlm 1:1 † 1:2–­3 Rom 1:7–­8 1:5 ◊ See WW at Acts 2:42. ◊ See WW at Mark 1:1. † 1:6 1 Cor 1:8

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

Word Wealth 1:6 good, agathos (ag-ath-oss); Strong’s #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.†

1:1 Or overseers; or bishops.

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 Paul’s ministry from the

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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 God’s 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 Paul’s affection for them is identical with the love of Christ for them.

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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 Christ’s 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

◊

◊

◊

Paul’s 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 God’s message* without fear.† 15 It’s 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 doesn’t 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.† Paul’s 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 2 Pet 3:1. † 1:11 John 15:4 ◊ See WW at 2 Tim 4:8. ◊ See WW at Eph 1:6. † 1:12 2 Tim 2:9 † 1:13 Acts 28:30–­31 Eph 3:1; 4:1 ◊ See WW at 1 Cor 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.

† 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 2 Cor 5:14. ◊ See WW at 2 Tim 2:22. † 1:26 Phil 2:24 ◊ See WW at 1 Cor 15:23. † 1:27 Eph 4:1 Phil 4:1–­2 † 1:28 2 Tim 2:11 Heb 13:6

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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 don’t know which is better.† 23 I’m ◊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.†

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 Don’t 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.†

2

† 1:29 Matt 5:11–­12 Acts 5:41 ◊ See WW at Col 3:13. ◊ See WW at Acts 17:3. † 1:30 Acts 16:19–­40 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

1:11 Greek with the fruit of righteousness through Jesus Christ. 1:12 Greek brothers. 1:13 Greek including all the Praetorium. 1:14a Greek brothers in the Lord. 1:14b Some 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.

1:12–18 Rather than slowing the spread of the Good News, Paul’s 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.

1:21–25 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.

1:21–24 See section 4 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians.

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1:23 The word go is also used for pulling up tent pegs or a ship’s 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 one’s 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.

2:1–4 See section 1 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians.

2:2 Unity of purpose and disposition among God’s people are crucial if the Good News is to be most effective.

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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 17:20–23). It is also consistent with the experience of the early church (Acts 2:42–47) and with the teaching of the apostles (Eph 4:3–6; 1 Pet 3:8).

† 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 1:1–­2; 5:18; 14:9–­10; 17:5 † 2:7 John 1:14 Rom 8:3 2 Cor 8:9 Gal 4:4 ◊ See WW at 1 Cor 9:15. ◊ See WW at Rev 19:5.

(Eph 4:3–6/2 Chr 30:12*) P.A.C.

Word Wealth 2:3 selfish, eritheia (er-ith-eye-ah); Strong’s #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.

3 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be ◊humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.† 4 Don’t 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.

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

When he appeared in human form,*† he ◊humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.†

8

Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and ◊gave him the ◊name above all other names,†

9

kingdom dynamics 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 God’s 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 Christ’s humility received ultimate exaltation (vv.

9–11), 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 God’s 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.

Word Wealth

† 2:8 John 10:17–­18 Heb 5:8; 12:2 ◊ See WW at Matt 18:4. † 2:9 Eph 1:20–­21 Heb 1:3–­4 ◊ See WW at Col 3:13. ◊ See WW at John 12:13.

2:9 elevated, huperupsoo (hoop-er-oopsah-oh); Strong’s #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.

2:6 Or Being in the form of God. 2:7a Greek he emptied himself. 2:7b Or the form of a slave. 2:7c Some English translations put this phrase in verse 8.

2:5–11 See section 1 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians.

2:5–11 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 (“Don’t . . . 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

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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 Christ’s 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 1 Jn 4:18. † 2:13 Rom 8:28 1 Cor 12:6 Heb 13:21 ◊ See WW at 1 Thes 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 1:25–­26 ◊ See WW at 2 Thes 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

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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 couldn’t ◊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

† 3:3 John 4:21–­24 Rom 2:29 Gal 6:15 Col 2:11

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

2:10, 11 Christ’s 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 one’s continued works, but that salvation must express itself in progressive Christian living and upright character, not only individually, but through obedient participation in God’s corporate call to a local church.

2:13 Without denying man’s freedom, Paul stresses God’s part in man’s 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.

2:19–23 Timothy often functioned as Paul’s personal envoy (1 Cor 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.

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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.

2:25–30 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 one’s being alive in the spirit (John 4:24) and thereby qualified for living worship, but also includes the Holy Spirit’s 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).

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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 worship—enlarging, 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.

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 God’s 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!†

3:4 ◊ 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; 26:9–­11 Rom 10:5 Gal 1:13 ◊ See WW at 2 Cor 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; 3:21–­22; 9:30; 10:3 Gal 2:16 2 Pet 1:1 † 3:10 Rom 6:3–­5; 8:17, 29 Gal 6:17 ◊ See WW at Acts 23:6. † 3:11 Acts 26:8 1 Cor 15:23 Rev 20:5–­6

kingdom dynamics 3:10 To Know Him, GROWING IN KNOWING. This passage sums up Paul’s 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 God’s 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 yesterday’s victories and the emotional paralysis of yesterday’s 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 (1:12–14). Paul’s desire to know Christ sprang from no other motive but to enjoy Him. He wanted Christ for Christ’s sake, not his own. He was a lover of God, not a user of God. And whether he moved in Christ’s 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.

† 3:12 Acts 9:5–­6 1 Tim 6:12, 19 ◊ See WW at 1 Jn 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 don’t 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.†

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

3:4–16 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).

3:7–11 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.

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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.

3:12–14 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

◊

4

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 again—­rejoice!† 5 Let everyone see that you are ◊considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.† 6 Don’t ◊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 God’s peace,

† 3:15 1 Cor 2:6 Phil 1:9–­10 ◊ See WW at Jas 3:2. † 3:17 1 Cor 4:16 1 Pet 5:3 † 3:18 Gal 6:12 † 3:19 Rom 8:5–­6; 16:18 † 3:20 Eph 2:19 Col 3:1–­3 Heb 12:22–­23 ◊ See WW at John 4:42. † 3:21 Rom 8:29 1 Cor 15:28, 43–­53 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 32:32–­33 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 5:8–­9 ◊ See WW at 1 Tim 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 1 Pet 1:5.

4:8 ◊ See WW at Rom 3:4. ◊ See WW at 1 Tim 3:11. ◊ See WW at 1 Jn 3:3. ◊ See WW at 2 Pet 1:5. ◊ See WW at Eph 1:6. † 4:9 Rom 15:33; 16:20 1 Cor 14:33 1 Thes 5:23

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kingdom dynamics 4:1–5 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 4:1–16/3 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.†

4:1 Greek brothers; also in 4:8. 4:3 Or loyal Syzygus.

3:15 See section 2 of Truth-In-Action at the end of Philippians.

3:17–21 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).

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4:4–7 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 God’s peace (v. 9).

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Word Wealth 4:8 admirable, euphemos (yoo-fay-moss); Strong’s #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 honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”

Paul’s 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 didn’t 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 don’t 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.†

† 4:10 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 10:33–­34 ◊ 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

Paul’s Final Greetings 21 Give my greetings to each of God’s holy people—­all who belong to Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send you their greetings. 22 And all the rest of God’s people send you greetings, too, especially those in Caesar’s 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, GOD’S ABUNDANCE. Let this scripture be a guiding light to understanding God’s 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 2:1–5), 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, God’s 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 17:2–6).

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

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

4:23 Jesus, Iesous (Yay-soos); Strong’s #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.

4:13 Greek through the one.

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 Paul’s 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 life’s circumstances. (v. 13).

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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 Christ’s 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 Christ’s sufficiency in facing all life’s circumstances.

4:17 Paul emphasizes the importance of the Philippians’ gifts as investments yielding spiritual fruit.

4:22 Caesar’s household most likely refers to the slaves and servants in and around the imperial palace.

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Truth in Action through Philippians

Letting the Life of the Holy Spirit Bring Faith’s Works Alive in You!

Truth Philippians Teaches

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 criminal’s 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.

Dynamic 2Cultivating Devotion

Seek to be a man or woman “after God’s 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 find Him (Deut 4:29).

3Pursuing Holiness

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.

4The Walk of Faith

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 God’s riches in glory. Walk by faith and set your eyes on Jesus until you see Him face to face.

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Action Text

Philippians Invites

2:1–4

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.

2:5–11

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.

2:12, 13

Express God’s 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.

2:20, 21; 4:8, 9

Be willing to lay down selfish desires. Learn to control your thought life. Practice focusing your thoughts on things that are pure, lovely, virtuous, and praiseworthy.

3:7–11

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.”

3:12–14

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.

3:15

Recognize that wholehearted, focused pursuit of Jesus is a mark of mature Christianity and devotion.

1:7

Recognize that every believer can partake of grace.

It is by grace that we are saved (Eph 2:8).

3:9

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.

1:6

Believe with confidence that God will accomplish the good work He started in you.

1:21–24

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.

1:29, 30

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.

4:4–7

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.

4:11, 12

Learn to be content in all circumstances. Contentment will bring great freedom to your life.

4:13

Believe that when God asks you to do something, He is able to provide the strength you need to do it

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