1-11 Breaking with the Past
- Beware of those who would insist on circumcision - "dogs," "evil workers," "those who mutilate the flesh." Pretty strong language, and a good indication of what Paul thought of those who would impose their traditions on new Christians.
- Those who worship in the Spirit and boast in Christ are the real circumcision and do not rely on fleshly ceremonies.
- Though if we did -- I (Paul) would have a lot to rely on. Just look at my history as a zealous Pharisee - blameless and righteous under the law of Moses.
- But all that is nothing – I have gladly given it up for Christ.
- The only thing is to "know Christ and the power of his resurrection." What a focus! And what a reminder to us of what is most important – not good works, not adhering to tradition, not even our reputations – as important as these may be – but the power of the resurrection of Christ. Paul also had this attitude when he wrote the Corinthians, with all their conflicts and troubles: "I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified" (1 Corinthians 2:2).
- I (Paul) hope to become like Christ in suffering and even in death, so I can also share his resurrection. This is a true disciple, a true follower, wishing to follow Christ not only in his lifestyle of kindness and mercy (which, I think, is what most of us mean when we think "What would Jesus do?"), but in his suffering and death.
- Even with this attitude, Paul doesn't consider that he's attained perfection yet; it's something he constantly "strains" to reach, as all mature Christians should be doing. How many of us who have been Christians a long time feel like we've made it? Hopefully, none of us, because being mature means we're even more aware of how far we have to go.
- However, while moving forward, we also "hold fast" to the maturity we have attained. It's one thing to be willing to change. It's another to sway in the wind, making changes according to whatever new "truth" is presented to us, e.g. instrumental music or women in public positions of authority.
- Imitate me (Paul) and look at others who follow our example, for many are enemies of Christ.
- You can tell who they are by their emphasis on earthly things.
- But we are citizens of heaven, subjects of Christ, who will transform and conform our bodies to his will.
- Therefore, stand firm in the Lord.
2-9 Exhortation
- I urge Euodia and Syntyche to get along, and you others to help them, because they, with Clement and others, have worked with me in the cause of the gospel. Yes, they worked hard, but they need help in being true sisters, having a unity of spirit, as he said in 2:2, "making my joy complete. "
- Rejoice, be gentle, do not worry about anything, but in prayer give thanks and ask God for what you need, and God's peace, passing understanding, will be yours. Is this because He will grant them everything they ask for, or because they have put it all in God's hands?
- Let your mind be always full of what is true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, excellent, and worthy. A good passage (in its original eloquent form) to remember when we are about to criticize someone.
- It was kind of you to help me in my distress, though I have learned to be content in all circumstances – whether I'm in need or have more than I need, through the strength that Christ gives to me.
- In the early days, you Philippians were the only ones who sent me help, and I was thankful for the way you were blessed by the giving.
- I am fully satisfied with your latest gift, delivered by Epaphroditus. In turn, God will fully satisfy your needs. If we take this literally, to mean that all our physical needs will be met, it also means all of Paul's physical needs were being met, which is unlikely, seeing he was in prison.
- To God be the glory.
- Greet all the saints there; all the saints – especially those of the emperor's household – send their greetings. No excuses! If Paul could teach those who worked for the emperor (Nero) himself, we can teach our neighbors, can't we?
- "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit."
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