1. “Standing Firm in the Lord” In our previous studies of the Philippian letter, we examined: “The Cause of Christ” from chp.1; “Walking Worthy of the Gospel” from chp.2; and “False vs. True Circumcision” from chp.3. Now we’re ready for chp.4,

2. Chapter 4 can be divided thusly: v.1the incumbent obligation of heavenly citizenship vv.2-3 instructions to specific members vv.4-7rejoicing in the Lord vv.8-9the proper occupation of the mind vv.10-20 the Philippians “sharing” with Paul in his preaching of the gospel

3. The Incumbent Obligation of Heavenly Citizenship The first verse is really a conclusion of the thought begun in 3:20-21. -Heavenly citizenship should be eagerly awaited, 1:20. -It will necessitate transformation, 1:21; cf.1Cor.15:50. -But in order to claim our citizenship and transformation, we must “stand firm in the Lord” until such time, v.1! cf.Heb.3:12 – 4:1

4. Instructions to Specific Members Of the people specified in vv.2-3, nothing else is known, save what can be inferred here. -Evidently Euodia and Syntyche were at odds, and it was affecting, or at least had the potential to affect, the whole church there, Eph.4:1-3. -The “true comrade” of whom Paul spoke was probably Epaphroditus- who was one of them, a prominent teacher among them, and likely carried this letter to them. He is charged to “help” these women to be united. A Christian who shows disregard for the body when selfish pursuits are preferred to its good, cf.1Cor.6:5ff. -Of Clement, mentioned here, there is no other certain knowledge.

5. Rejoicing in the Lord “Rejoicing” is a common theme in the letter, 1:18; 2:17,18,28; 3:1; 4:10. But how is it accomplished? -v.5, One must have a “forbearing spirit” and recognize the close proximity of the Lord, Psalm 145:18-19. -v.6, One must “be anxious for nothing”. Again, how? Do your best with those things you can control or influence, and turn the rest over to God, 1Pet.5:6-7. -v.7, Such will result not only supreme peace, but the protection of both the heart (emotions) and mind (intellect).

6. The Proper Occupation of the Mind “Idle hands” are said to be the “Devil’s workshop”- which may be true, but is not so stated in the Bible. However vv.8-9 have much to say about how our minds should be occupied. We should think on things that are: -True, John 17:17 -Honorable, 2Cor.8:21 -Right, 1Sam.12:3; Matt.23:23; Heb.5:14 -Pure, Matt.5:8; Titus 2:5 -Lovely (kindly graces of character), 1John 4:8 -of Good Repute, 1Pet.2:12 -things of Excellence (courage, valor, every form of moral excellence), Gal.5:22-25 -things Worthy of Praise, Heb.13:15; 1Pet.1:7 When we think on these things, our mind is properly occupied!

7. The Philippians Sharing in Paul’s Preaching of the Gospel This is not just a “financial accounting” passage- there is value to us if we: -appreciate concern and opportunity enough to emulate their conduct of sharing, vv.10,14- 16; -learn the lesson of contentment, vv.11-13; - and understand the benefits, vv.17,19; cf. 2Cor.9:10-14.

8. What about it? Paul loved this church at Philippi dearly- perhaps more so than any other. The reason is likely because of their character and faithfulness. Congregational character and faithfulness is determined by individual character and faithfulness. What do you think would be Paul’s feelings toward us/you? Yes, the Bereans were noble-minded. But the Philippians were favored- let’s emulate both!