Philippians 4

     4:1,  As always, therefore connects the thought with the preceding.  Therefore, stand firm in the Lord.

     4:2.  It is not easy to be of the same mind, united and standing firm in one spirit in a manner worthy of the gospel (cf. 1:27, 2:2).  Here are two good women, who had shared Paul’s struggles in the gospel.  Yet they get their names recorded for the ages only because they cannot be of the same mind (margin).  As noted at 3:15, having a right mind, or attitude, how we think, is a major theme (2:2, 5; 3:15; 4:7, 8).  It is a much more powerful warning to us all that these particular names are mentioned, even though we know nothing else of these women.  The personal names just make it strike home so much more than a general warning to the same point.   It also reminds us that the judgment of all our thoughts and intentions will not be done in secret (Luke 12:2-3; Ro.2:16).  Their disharmony was public, and had to be dealt with publicly.

     4:3.   True comrade is rendered true yokefellow in KJV, a term that stresses his gift for harmony to get the work done.   This man’s name remains unknown.  But all these, named and unnamed, Paul hopes and believes have their names recorded where it really matters; in heaven in the book of life.

     4:4.   See 3:1, notes.

     4:5.   Forbearance is not to be confused with indifference to sin, but is a willingness to bear the weaknesses and annoying traits of others with at least as much tolerance as we extend to ourselves, and always to be prepared to forgive those who repent (cf.2:3-4).  This spirit in us should be evident to all men, not just like-minded believers.  “The Lord is near,” is a warning to remember the judgment, and allow the Lord to do the judging of others.  Also, that we shall be judged by our own standard (Mt.7:1-2; Ro.14:10; 1 Cor.4:5).

     The Lord is near (or coming soon) is a fact that has exercised many a vain imagination.  He will most surely come someday, but exactly when no one knows but God himself.  And the point of this reminder is that it could be at any moment.  Each one of us of whatever generation is only a heartbeat away from eternity.  We know not the day nor the hour, but we do know that the Judge is standing right at the door (James 5:8-9).

      4:6-9.  The prayer of faith and trust in God no matter what may come is the answer to anxiety and worry.  Let our minds dwell on the good things, and the God of peace shall be with us (cf. Mt.6:25-34).

     4:10-23.  Paul closes his letter to this beloved church by thanking them again for their generous gifts which they delivered by the hand of Epaphroditus.  He reassures them that he needs nothing more, but is well provided for, and that God is pleased with their sacrifice, and will surely give them riches in glory in Christ Jesus.  The greeting from those of Caesar’s household refers to servants, and not family members, almost certainly.