Philippians Bible Study
Scripture & Commentary Below the Videos
Philippians Chapter 1
Author: Philippians 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Philippians as the apostle Paul, likely along with the help of Timothy.
Date of Writing: The Book of Philippians was written in approximately A.D. 61.
Purpose of Writing: The Epistle to the Philippians, one of Paul’s prison epistles, was written in Rome. It was at Philippi, which the apostle visited on his second missionary journey (Acts 16:12), that Lydia and the Philippian jailer and his family were converted to Christ. Now, some few years later, the church was well established, as may be inferred from its address which includes “bishops (elders) and deacons” (Philippians 1:1).The occasion of the epistle was to acknowledge a gift of money from the church at Philippi, brought to the apostle by Epaphroditus, one of its members (Philippians 4:10-18). This is a tender letter to a group of Christians who were especially close to the heart of Paul (2 Corinthians 8:1-6), and comparatively little is said about doctrinal error.Greeting
Php 1:1 “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the SAINTS in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:
(SAINTS MEANING: G40 ἅγιος hagios: From ἅγος hagos compare G53, [H2282]; SACRED (physically pure, MORALLY BLAMELESS or religious, ceremonially consecrated): – (most) HOLY(one, thing), saint.Total KJV occurrences: 229G53 ἁγνός hagnos [hag-nos’] From the same as G40; properly CLEAN, that is, (figuratively) INNOCENT, MODEST, PERFECT: – CHASTE, clean, PURE.
Total KJV occurrences: 8)
Php 1:2 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Thanksgiving and Prayer
Php 1:3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,
Php 1:4 Always IN EVERY PRAYER of mine for you all making request with joy,
Php 1:5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;
Php 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: (THIS IS A VERSE THE “ONCE SAVED ALWAYS SAVED” HERETICKS WREST TO THEIR DESTRUCTION.
Paul was commending this church and this church in particular, that in their case, God will complete the work He began in them because of their constant obedience.God only authors your salvation IF you OBEY HIM:
Hebrews 5:9 “And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation UNTO ALL THEM THAT OBEY HIM.”
This Philippian church was the only one that supported Paul financially by sending their Epaphroditus to assist him. One has to understand that this church particularly had a ver close relationship with Paul and that among all the other churches, he said that they had citizenship in heaven, again, for their undeniable obedience (righteous works/faith).
The letter to the Philippians is the only letter that is incredibly cordial and doesn’t deal with important problems. Paul was complementary from beginning to the end.
“Confident” in verse 6 means rather “very high hopes“, not absolute confidence as Paul surely knew one could lose their salvation by going back into willful sin.
Paul clearly does not believe in OSAS:
1 Tim. 1:19 –”Some have REJECTED these things and so have SHIPWRECKED their faith.” [These souls were once true believers, yet they fell not only violently, but finally; for ships once wrecked cannot be saved afterwards. This is an entire destruction of faith… as a ship is totally ruined that strikes on a rock and sinks. Total apostates.]
1 Tim. 6:10,21 –”Some people, eager for money, have WANDERED (ERRED) FROM THE FAITH…” [Απεπλανηθησαν· Have totally erred – have made a most fatal and ruinous departure from the religion of Christ.]
And of course the rest of the Word perfectly lines up with the fact that “once saved always saved” is a lie from the pit of hell:
Many disciples: “Followed Jesus no more” (Jn 6:66). “They for awhile believed” (Lk 8:13). They drew back to perdition (Heb 10:26-39). To receive Christ and confess him brings the new birth, so those who believed for awhile had grace to fall from (Jn 1:12, 1 Jn 5:1).
PHILIPPIANS 1:6 IS A PLEDGE BASED ON THE CURRENT AND WORKING FAITH OF THE SUBJECTS INVOLVED. I WANT TO USE HERE A GREAT EXPLANATION FROM A 1972 ARTICLE WHICH IS PERTINENT FOREVERMORE AS IT’S BIBLICALLY SPOT ON:
“Philippians 1:6 and Apostasy
Philippians 1: 6 is occasionally used in attempts to sustain and support the impossibility of apostasy or the “once saved, always saved” doctrine. It was used in the September 1971 issue of The Baptist World, under an article entitled, “Security of the Believer.” Albert Garner, a prominent and proficient Missionary Baptist, has used it in debate, but the passage does not get the mileage that it might. It appears to be a convincing proof text. “Being confident of this very thing that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Phil. 1:6).Argument”If you teach that one may so sin as to be lost in hell, then you do not believe that God will perform His work. If the saved ever become lost, it will be Gods fault because He did not complete the good work as Paul said He would.”Reply:The confidence of Paul was based on the faithfulness of the Philippians. “Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye are partakers of my grace” (Phillipians 1: 7). It was right for Paul to think God would complete His work “inasmuch” or “because that” they were fellow sharers of grace.There is no doubt that God will complete His work in such saints. God will do His part, but this is not the issue involved in the apostasy question. No one denies Gods willingness or ability to perform. The question is, “Will God perform His work even if the Philippians cease to trust and share in the grace of the gospel?” Paul does not so promise. “God began and God will consummate (complete-LRH) it … but not without their cooperation and partnership” (A. T. Robertson, Word Pictures in the New Testament, Vol. IV, p. 436.). Philippians 1: 6 is a pledge based on the faith of the subjects involved. Reverse verse seven. “Even as it is not right for me to think this of you all, because I do not have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds and in defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye are all departed deniers of my grace.The Philippians were partakers, sharers, with Paul of grace, but one who is “called into the grace of Christ” may fall from grace (Gal 1:6; 5:4). The Philippians as partakers of grace had received the grace of God; however, it is possible to receive the grace of God in vain (2 Cor. 6: 1). See also Heb 3:1, 6, 12-14. To such as depart and fall from grace, the promise of Philippians 1:6 is not made.Gods faithfulness to those in grace does not compel their obedience. The Galatians were “in the grace of Christ” (Gal 1:6), and for a time they “did run well” (Gal 5:7). As such, Phil 1:6, 7 would apply to them, but when they were “removed” from God and did “not obey the truth,” then they fell from grace and apart from the promise of Gods working in them. Unless the Philippians continued to look diligently, they, too, would “fail of the grace of God” (Heb 12:15); therefore, Paul exhorted, “so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved” (Phillipians 4:1).TRUTH MAGAZINE, XVI: 26, p. 12May 4, 1972″)
I HAVE NEVER HEARD OF THIS MAGAZINE BEFORE AND I DON’T CONDONE ANYTHING ELSE THAT MAY BE IN THE MAGAZINE.)
Php 1:7 Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds (THEY COMFORTED HIM IN JAIL), and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.
Php 1:8 For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. (THE MOST TENDER EXPRESSION OF LOVE FOR THE BRETHREN – A TRUE BROTHER IS WILLING TO LAY DOWN HIS OWN LIFE FOR THE BRETHREN)
Php 1:9 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; (PROPER DISCRIMINATION OF THE TRUTH)
Php 1:10 That ye may APPROVE THINGS THAT ARE EXCELLENT; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;
Php 1:11 Being filled with THE FRUITS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.
The Advance of the Gospel
Php 1:12 But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; (SUFFERINGS FOR THE GOSPEL SAKE BY TURNING THESE BONDS INTO THE PROMOTION OF THE GOSPEL)
Php 1:13 So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; (NOTICED ALL OVER THE ROMAN PALACE AND OTHER PLACES)
Php 1:14 And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. (YOUR LIVING EXAMPLE OF HOLY LIVING NO MATTER WHAT THE SITUATION AND ESPECIALLY WHEN SUFFERING IS A GREAT EXAMPLE TO OTHER BRETHREN)
Php 1:15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; (MOSTL LIKELY HERETICAL JUDIAZING “cHRISTIANS” THAT WERE PREACHING AGAINST THE TRUTH AND OF COURSE PAUL) and some also of good will:
Php 1:16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: (JUDIAZING PREACHERS SPEWING LIES IN CONTENTION TO THE TRUE GOSPEL AND AGAINST PAUL ADDINT TO HIS SUFFERING)
Php 1:17 But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.
To Live Is Christ
Php 1:18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. (IN PRETENSE – EVEN SOME OF THE GOSPEL IS PREACHED AND MAY LEAD TO THE HEARER TO WANT TO LEARN MORE)
Php 1:19 For I know that this shall turn to (MAGNIFY) my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,
Php 1:20 According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that WITH ALL BOLDNESS, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.
Php 1:21 FOR ME TO LIVE IS CHRIST, AND TO DIE IS GAIN.
Php 1:22 But if I live in the flesh (HIS EARTHLY STATE), this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. (A VERY POWERFUL TRUTH FOR ALL TRUE BELIEVERS. WE PRAY THAT THE LORD TARRIES SO WE CAN CONTINUE HIS WORK ON EARTH BUT OF COURSE WE ARE “HATED BY ALL FOR HIS NAME SAKE” AND THERE IS GREAT PERSECUTION. ON THE OTHER HAND, WE PRAY THAT THE LORD COMES SOON)
Php 1:23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
Php 1:24 Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.
Php 1:25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;
Php 1:26 That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.
Php 1:27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
Php 1:28 And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.
Php 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also SUFFER FOR HIS SAKE;
Php 1:30 Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.”
(2nd Timothy 2:12 “IF WE SUFFER, we shall also reign with him: IF WE DENY HIM, HE ALSO WILL DENY US. 13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.” YOU WILL BE JUDGED BY YOUR ACTIONS!
2Ti 3:12 “Yea, and ALL THAT WILL LIVE GODLY IN CHRIST JESUS SHALL SUFFER PERSECUTION. 13 But EVIL MEN AND SEDUCERS SHALL WAX WORSE and worse, DECEIVING, and BEING DECEIVED.”
Hebrews 11:23-28 “BY FAITH Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king’s commandment. 24 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; 25 CHOOSING rather TO SUFFER AFFLICTION with the people of God, THAN TO ENJOY THE PLEASURES OF SIN FOR A SEASON; 26 ESTEEMING THE REPROACH OF CHRIST greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. 27 BY FAITH he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for HE ENDURED, as seeing him who is invisible. 28 THROUGH FAITH he kept the passover, and the SPRINKLING OF THE BLOOD, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.”
Philippians Chapter 2
Christ’s Example of Humility
Php 2:1 “If there be therefore any consolation (EXHORTATION) in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
Php 2:2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be LIKEMINDED, HAVING THE SAME LOVE, being of ONE ACCORD (ONE SOUL), of ONE MIND. (THINKING THE SAME THING)
Php 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind (HUMBLY) let each esteem other better than themselves.
Php 2:4 Look not every man on his own things (DON’T BE SELFISH), but every man also on the things of others. (1st John 3:17 “But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?”)
Php 2:5 Let this mind be in you (ACTION), which was also in Christ Jesus: (1st John 2:3-6 “And every man that hath this hope in him PURIFIETH HIMSELF, even as HE (JESUS) is pure. 4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the l1st John 2:6 “He that saith he abideth in HIM (JESUS) ought HIMSELF also so to walk, even as he (JESUS) walked.”)
Php 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: (JESUS, BEING GOD AND EQUAL TO THE FATHER AND HOLY SPIRIT (AS ONE GOD) HUMBLED HIMSELF WHILE ON EARTH)
Php 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant (AS A MEDIATOR), and was made in the likeness of men:
Php 2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. (AS A PERFECT SIN OFFERING)
Php 2:9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
Php 2:10 That at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; (THE WHOLE UNIVERSE SHALL CONFESS HE IS LORD)
Php 2:11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (EVEN HIS ENEMIES, WILLFUL SINNERS, FROM THE BEGINNING OF TIME THROUGH THE 2ND COMING, WILL CONFESS HIS IS LORD AS THEY GET THROWN IN THE ETERNAL LAKE OF FIRE WHICH THEY RIGHTLY DESERVE)
Lights in the World
Php 2:12 Wherefore, my beloved, AS YE HAVE ALWAYS OBEYED, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION WITH FEAR AND TREMBLING.
(Psalm 111:10 “The FEAR of the LORD is the BEGINNING OF WISDOM: a good understanding have all they that DO HIS COMMANDMENTS: his praise endureth for ever.”
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: FEAR GOD, AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS: for THIS IS THE WHOLE DUTY OF MAN. 14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with EVERY SECRET THING, whether it be good (RIGHTEOUSNESS UNTO ETERNAL LIFE), or whether it be evil (SIN UNTO DEATH).”Job 28:28 “And unto man he said, Behold, the FEAR OF THE LORD, THAT IS WISDOM; and to DEPART FROM EVIL (WILLFUL SIN) is understanding.)
Php 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. (HIS INFLUENCE IS NOT TO SUPERSEDE BUT COMPLIMENT OUR FREE WILL EFFORTS)
Php 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
Php 2:15 That ye may be BLAMELESS and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke (NOT A WILLFUL SINNER WHERE THE UNSAVED CAN ALL YOU A HYPOCRITE AND THE LIKE), in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
Php 2:16 HOLDING FORTH the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I HAVE NOT RUN IN VAIN, neither laboured in vain.
Php 2:17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. (1Jn 3:16 “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.)
Php 2:18 For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
Timothy and Epaphroditus
Php 2:19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.
Php 2:20 For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. (PAUL HAD NO ONE LIKE TIMOTHY WITH HIM, A DEAREST BROTHER. (Psalm “But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. 14 We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company.)
Php 2:21 For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s. (2Ti 4:16 “At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.”
Php 2:22 But ye know the proof of him (TIMOTHY WAS A RIGHTEOUS AND JUST MAN WALKING IN HOLINESS), that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. (HE DID ALL HE COULD DO TO HELP PAUL)
Php 2:23 Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.
Php 2:24 But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly.
Php 2:25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.
Php 2:26 For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick.
Php 2:27 For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.
Php 2:28 I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.
Php 2:29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:
Php 2:30 Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death (HAVING LABOURED BEYOND HIS STRENGTH FOR CHRISTS SAKE TAKING CARE OF THE DISTRESSED AND PROCLAIMING THE GOSPEL), not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.”
Philippians Chapter 3
Righteousness Through Faith in Christ
Php 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you (AS YOU HAVE HEARD BEFORE), to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. (SPIRITUAL JOY IS THE BEST SAFETY AGAINST SIN)
Php 3:2 Beware of dogs (PREVIOUSELY USED TO DESCRIBE THE GENTILES BY THE JEWS BUT NOW THAT THEY ARE CAST OUT OF THE COVENENT THEY ARE CALLED DOGS), beware of evil workers (JUDIAZING TEACHERS), beware of the concision. (THEY HAD REJECTED THE THE NEW COVENANT AND THEIR CIRCUMCISION IS RENDERED UNCIRCUMCISION)
Php 3:3 For we are the circumcision (THE TRUE BELIEVERS IN CHRIST LOVING GOD BY “KEEPING HIS COMMANDMENTS” – THE MORAL LAW OF GOD THAT SAVES), which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.
Php 3:4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: (MORE MEANING CIRCUMCISION OF THE HEART OBEYING CHRIST)
Php 3:5 Circumcised the eighth day (IN PERFECT COMPLIANCE TO THE MOSAIC LAW AS A JEWISH MAN), of the stock of Israel (DESCENDED FROM JACOB), of the tribe of Benjamin (HE WAS NOT ONE OF THE 10 REVOLTED TRIBES UNDER JEROBOAM BUT OF THE TWO THAT DID NOT), an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; (ONE OF THE SECTS THAT MOST STRICTLY OBSERVED HIS COMMANDMENTS)
Php 3:6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, BLAMELESS. (NOT ONLY CEREMONIAL RIGHTEOUSNESS BUT COMPLETE OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S MORAL COMMANDS)
Php 3:7 But WHAT THINGS WERE GAIN TO ME, those I COUNTED LOSS for Christ. (NO MATTER HOW MUCH ONE OBEYED THE CEREMONIAL LAW IT COULD NEVER REPLACE THE GLORIOUS WAY TO THE CROSS WHERE JESUS BECAME THE PERFECT SIN OFFERING. ONLY CHRIST CRUCIFIED “TAKES AWAY THE SINS OF THE WORLD TO ALL WHO REPENT AND LIVE RIGHTEOUSLY AND ENDURE ‘TIL THE END)
Php 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I COUNT ALL THINGS BUT LESS for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I HAVE SUFFERED THE LOSS OF ALL THINGS, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, (WHEN PAUL BECAME A CHRISTIAN HE GAVE UP ALL WORLDLY PRIVILEGES)
Php 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness (NOT RELYING ON EARTHLY BLOOD SACRIFICES AND SUCH FOR SALVATION BUT LIVING HOLY FOR CHRIST), which is of the (MOSAIC) law, but that which is through the FAITH OF CHRIST, the righteousness which is of God by faith: (ONCE ONE TRULY REPENTS AND FORSAKES ALL SIN, THEN THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IS AVAILABLE TO THAT SAINT. JESUS CLEANSES FROM “SINS THAT ARE PAST (“Romans 3:25 “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his (JESUS’) blood, to declare HIS righteousness for the remission of SINS THAT ARE PAST, through the forbearance of God” (YOU ARE PURGED FROM OLD SINS. NEVER CURRENT OR FUTURE)!
2nd Peter 1:9 “But he that LACKETH these things is BLIND, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was PURGED FROM HIS OLD SINS.”)
Php 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
Php 3:11 If BY ANY MEANS I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. (THE RESURRECTION OF THOSE WHO DIED IN FAITH – BEING FAITHFUL ‘TIL THE END OF THEIR NATURAL LIFE. “BY ANY MEANS” – Luke 13:24 Strive (AGONIZE, FIGHT, LABOUR) to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.”)
Straining Toward the Goal
Php 3:12 Not as though I had already attained (AN “OSAS” KILLER AS PAUL CLEARLY STATES HE HAS NOT ATTAINED ETERNAL LIFE YET. ONE NEEDS TO ENDURE ‘TIL THE END TO BE SAVED FINALLY LEST THE FALL AWAY), either were already perfect (I AM NOT YET CROWNED): but I follow after (I PURSUE, PERSEVERE, ETC), if that I MAY apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.)
Php 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended (STRIVING AFTER SOMETHING NOT YET GAINED): but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind (A REFERENCE TO THE GRECIAN RACES WHERE ONE NEVER LOOKS BUT STRIVES TOWARDS THE PRIZE. HOW MUCH MORE SHALL ONE STRIVE TO GAIN THE HEAVENLY ETERNAL PRIZE), and reaching forth unto those things which are before, (AN EARTHLY “CROWN” FOR THE WINNER OF THE RACE, AN ETERNAL FOR THE ONE WHO ENDURES ‘TIL THE END IN OBEDIENCE TO THE KING)
Php 3:14 I PRESS TOWARD THE MARK FOR THE PRIZE of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Php 3:15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect (WHO ARE STRIVING FOR HEAVENLY PERFECTION), be thus minded (UNITED IN OBTAINING THE ETERNAL PRIZE): and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded (ALLUDING TO ONE NOT FULLY CONVINCED TO LEAVE THE MOSIAC LAW BEHIND), God shall reveal even this unto you. (IF YOU ARE TRULY STRIVINNG FOR THE HEAVENLY PRIZE WITH THE KNOWLEDGE YOU HAVE, GOD WILL INSTRUCT YOU TO BECOME MORE WISE IN SPIRITUAL THINGS)
Php 3:16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. (DON’T LOST THE GROUND YOU HAVE ALREADY GAINED)
Php 3:17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (IMITATE THOSE WHO ARE WALKING IN BIBLICAL PERFECTION)
Php 3:18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: (THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER BEEN BORN AGAIN, THOSE WHO ARE LUKEWARM WHO HAVE AN OUTWARDLY FAITH BUT NOT FRUIT, THOSE WHO WERE IN THE FAITH BUY APOSTATIZE, JUDIAZERS, ETC)
Php 3:19 WHOS END IS DESTRUCTION, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)
Php 3:20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
Php 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.”
(Colossians 3:1-8 “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are ABOVE, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things ABOVE, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. 5 MORTIFY therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is IDOLATRY: 6 For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: 7 In the which ye also walked some time, WHEN (PAST) ye lived in them. 8 But now ye also PUT OFF ALL THESE; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.”)
Philippians Chapter 4
Php 4:1 “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so STAND FAST IN THE LORD, my dearly beloved.
Exhortation, Encouragement, and Prayer
Php 4:2 I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they BE OF THE SAME MIND IN THE LORD.
Php 4:3 And I intreat thee also, TRUE YOKEFELLOW (TRUE BROTHER IN CHRIST), HELP THOSE WOMEN WHICH LABOURED WITH ME IN THE GOSPEL, with Clement also, and with other MY FELLOWLABOURERS, whose names are IN THE BOOK OF LIFE. (BECAUSE THEY ARE LIVING HOLY IN THE LORD)
(Revelation 2:5 “Remember therefore from whence THOU ART FALLEN, and REPENT (FROM WILLFUL SIN), and DO THE FIRST WORKS; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will REMOVE THY CANDLESTICK OUT OF IT’S PLACE, except thou repent.”)
(Revelation 22:18-19 “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall ADD unto these things, God shall add unto him the PLAGUES that are written in this book: 19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall TAKE AWAY HIS PART OUT OF THE BOOK OF LIFE, AND OUT OF THE HOLY CITY, and from the things which are written in this book.”)
Php 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.
Php 4:5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. (A CHRISTIAN MUST BE FREE FROM ALL EXCESS IN EVERY SENSE OF THE WORD)
(Luke 6:24-26 “But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation. 25 Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep. 26 Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.”)
A CHRISTIAN IS CONTENT NO MATTER WHAT
Philippians 4:11 “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”
1st Timothy 6:8 “And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”
Hebrews 13:5 “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
Proverbs 30:8-9 “Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me: 9 Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.”
Acts 2:44-47 “And ALL THAT BELIEVED WERE TOGETHER, and HAD ALL THINGS IN COMMON (COMMUNITY); 45 And SOLD THEIR POSSESSIONS AND GOODS (NON-NECESSITIES), and PARTED THEM TO ALL MEN, AS EVERY MAN HAD NEED. 46 And they, CONTINUING DAILY IN ONE ACCORD in the temple, and BREAKING BREAD FROM HOUSE TO HOUSE, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.”
Php 4:6 Be careful (ANXIOUS) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Php 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Php 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Php 4:9 Those things, which ye have both learned (BY TEACHING), and received (BY FAITH – REVELATION OF GOD), and heard, and seen in me, DO: and (THEN) the God of peace shall be with you.
Proverbs 7:2 “KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS, AND LIVE; and my law as the apple of thine eye.”
Daniel 9:4 “And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS”
John 14:15 “IF ye love me, KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS.”
John 15:10 “IF YE KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.”John 15:14 “Ye are my friends, IF YE DO WHATSOEVER I COMMAND YOU”
God’s Provision
Php 4:10 “But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last (AFTER A LONG TIME) your care of me hath flourished again (HAS REVIVED ME); wherein ye were also careful (EAGER TO MINISTER TO PAUL’S NEEDS), but ye lacked opportunity. (THERE WERE NO PERSONS GOING FROM ROME TO PHILIPPI)
Php 4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in WHATSOEVER STATE I AM IN, therewith to BE CONTENT. (PAUL HAD LEARNED TO TOLERATE GREAT TRIALS)
PAUL AND SILAS “SANG PRAISES UNTO GOD” AFTER BEING BEATEN AND THROWN INTO JAIL UNRIGHTEOUSLY!
Acts 16:22-25 “And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates RENT OFF THEIR CLOTHES, and commanded to BEAT THEM. 23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them (WHIPPED THEM), they CAST THEM INTO PRISON, charging the jailor to keep them safely: 24 Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison (WORST PART), and made their feet fast in the stocks (SHACKLED). 25 And at midnight Paul and Silas PRAYED, and SANG PRAISES UNTO GOD: and the prisoners heard them.”
Php 4:12 I know both how to be abased (IN WANT), and I know how to abound (WHAT TO DO WITH ABUNDANCE): every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. (TO NEVER COMPLAIN WHEN IN NEED AND TO KNOW HOW TO DISTRIBUTE ABUNDANCE TO THOSE IN NEED)
(1st John 3:17 “But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?”)
Php 4:13 I CAN DO ALL THINGS IN CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENETH ME.
Php 4:14 Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction. (TOOK PART AND ASSISTED ME IN MY AFFLICTION)
1Co 12:24-27 “For our comely parts (THE FACE, ETC) have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: 25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that THE MEMBERS (OF CHRIST) SHOULD HAVE THE SAME CARE FOR ONE ANOTHER. 26 And whether ONE MEMBER SUFFER, ALL THE MEMBERS SUFFER WITH IT; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.”
Php 4:15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. (MAY MEAN THAT THE OTHER CHURCHES DID NOT KNOW PAUL NEEDED HELP BUT SURELY THE PHILIPPI CHURCH DID)
Php 4:16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. (OH WHAT A FAITHFUL BODY OF BELIEVERS)
Php 4:17 Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. (NOT BECAUSE HE WANTED ANYTHING BUT BECAUSE OF THEIR “FRUIT” AKA RIGHTEOUS WORKS OF MINISTERING TO PAUL, EVEN FROM AFAR)
Php 4:18 But I have all (NO NECESSITIES AT THIS TIME WERE LACKING BECAUSE OF THE LOVE OF A FEW FAITHFUL CHRISTIANS), and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell (TO THE LORD DUE TO THEIR OBEDIENCE), a SACRIFICE ACCEPTABLE, wellpleasing to God. (CAIN GAVE A SACRIFICE BUT IT WAS NOT HIS BEST)
Php 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Php 4:20 Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Final Greetings
Php 4:21 Salute every SAINT in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you.
Php 4:22 All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar’s (NERO’S) household. (RELATIVES OR DOMESTICS THAT BECAME CHRISTIANS)
Php 4:23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. To the Philippians written from Rome, by Epaphroditus.”