STANDING FIRM

PHILLIPIANS 4:1-3

1Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!

2I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.

3Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Paul is finalizing the book by telling them to remain strong in faith, unity and firm in the truth of what he has told them. this also should be a calling to each of us to do the same. STAND FIRM!!

4: 1   How do we “stand firm in the Lord”? This refers to what Paul has just taught in 3: 20-21. We stand firm by keeping our eyes on Christ, remembering that this world is not our home, and focusing on the day when Christ will bring everything under his control. Standing firm means steadfastly resisting the negative influences of temptation, false teaching, and persecution. It requires perseverance, holding firm when we are challenged or opposed (see 1: 27-28). Don’t lose heart or give up. God promises to give us strength of character. With the Holy Spirit’s help and with the help of fellow believers, you can stand firm in the Lord.

4: 2-3   Paul did not warn the Philippian church of doctrinal errors, but he did address some relational problems. These two women had been workers for Christ in the church. Their broken relationship was no small matter, because many had become believers through their efforts. It is possible to believe in Christ, work hard for his kingdom, and yet have broken relationships with others who are committed to the same cause. But we have no excuse for remaining unreconciled. Do you need to be reconciled to someone today? If you’re facing a conflict you can’t resolve, don’t let the tension build into an explosion. Don’t withdraw or resort to cruel power plays. Don’t stand idly by and wait for the dispute to resolve itself. Instead, seek the help of those known for peacemaking.

4: 3   The identity of this “true companion” remains a mystery. It could be Epaphroditus, the bearer of this letter, or a comrade of Paul’s in prison. It could also be someone named Syzygus, the Greek word for “companion.” Paul mentions this person specifically in their role as a peacemaker. 4: 3   Those “whose names are in the book of life” are all who are marked for salvation through their faith in Christ (also see Luke 10: 17-20; Revelation 20: 11-15).Tyndale. NIV Life Application Study Bible.

ON THE WAY HOME WALK WITH JESUS STANDING FIRM IN ALL THAT THE BIBLE HAS TAUGHT US ALONG WITH THE HOLY SPIRITS LEADING IN TIMES WE DON'T FULLY UNDERSTAND!!

onthewayhomeministries.org by RICHARD DEAN BROOKS