Coming through in the Clutch

“I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity” (Philippians 4:10).

There are a handful of legendary athletes who’ve earned a rep for coming through in the clutch. When their team needs a big bucket, a big hit, or a big play, they always seem to deliver. Michael Jordan drained one game-winner after another. John Elway had a stranglehold on fourth quarter comebacks. They didn’t call Reggie Jackson “Mr. October” because he loved Halloween. Timing is everything. Big players come through in big moments. 

Paul is absolutely stoked at the clutch performance by the Philippians. “I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity” (v10). The apostle’s been in the slammer for about five years. He’s not sure when he’s getting out. Things were looking grim. With everything on the line, Jesus uses His church in Philippi to come through in a big way. When the opportunity to help Paul knocked, they answered. They came through in crunch time. You see, timing is everything. Big players come through in big moments.

If you’re just joining us, Paul’s joy in the joint might seem more than a bit bizarre. He drops a baker’s dozen of delight in this letter (Phil 1:3, 18 [twice], 1:25; 2:17, 18, 28, 29; 3:1; 4:1, 4 [twice], 10). The apostle’s pen oozes with joy and it happens one last time here. “I rejoiced in the Lord greatly” (v10). He may be behind bars and behind the eight ball, but he certainly hasn’t given up. In this last mention of his happiness in God, he amps it to the max by using the Greek word megalos. Sounds a lot like some sort of giant creature that attacked Tokyo in a bad sci-fi flick, doesn’t it? It actually means intensely, abundantly, and describes the upper range of the extent. You can literally translate this phrase as “I’m mega-joyful in the Lord” (v10). His joy is maxed out. Or in the words the boys of Spinal Tap, his joy goes to 11. 

What’s got Paul’s joy so jacked? It’s because Jesus has used his funky little church in Philippi to come through for him in the clutch. “Now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had not opportunity” (v10). Don’t make the mistake of thinking his friends forgot all about him for a while and suddenly remembered to give him a shout. Oh my gosh! We’ve really dropped the ball with Paul!! He probably thinks he’s fallen off our radar! Couldn’t be farther from the truth. They’ve never stopped praying for him (Phil 1:19). They’ve never stopped thinking about him (Phil 1:7). They’ve never stopped looking for ways to do something for him.

But because the Philippians are locked and loaded to help Paul, they pull the trigger when given the chance. He describes their concern for him as “revived” (v10). This is the Greek word anathallo, which means to become active again, flourish once more, bloom again. The term literally describes how plants sprout and grow quickly in the springtime. Your garden goes dormant in winter but it doesn’t die. The plants wait for warmer weather and the opportunity to turn green and blossom. Same with the Philippians intense attention on the one God used to originally plant their church. They waited and waited for the right time, wanting to do something for the apostle, like an athlete looking to make a big play in crunch time.

So what exactly have the Philippians done in the clutch to help Paul in prison? Have they helped him cook up an elaborate escape plan to spring him from the slammer? Has somebody baked him a cake with a file in it? No, instead of trying to bust him out, they’ve sent their boy Epaphroditus to be with him (Phil 2:25). The Big E didn’t arrive empty handed. He brought an important care package that Paul calls “a fragrant offering, a sacrifice accepted and pleasing to God” (Phil 4:18). It’s not like Epaphroditus could catch the next Southwest flight from Philippi to Rome either. This trip is 700 miles if going by boat and almost 1,200 miles on land. Just getting there is an adventure. That might explain why the fellow from Philippi got sick and nearly died (Phil 2:27-30)! Throw in the fact that first century prisons are nothing like correctional institutions in 21st century America. No libraries. No weightlifting. Not even any meals. Just a dungeon. If you expect to survive for any length of time, you desperately need outside help. Apparently, this help in the form of Epaphroditus arrived at just the right time. 

You may be wondering what some ancient prison visit has to do with you and me. Oh, I am SO glad you asked! Who’s on your heart? Who needs your help? Who has God placed in your life and put on your mind who’s desperate for an act of grace? Maybe they’ve just been downsized in their career. Maybe their spouse has just ditched them for a newer model. Has bankruptcy blindsided a buddy? They could be standing over the fresh grave of a lost loved one. Is someone close to you aching for a conversation with their estranged child? I may think I’m totally unqualified for Jesus to use me to help. But I would be wrong. In one of his letters to the church in Corinth, Paul writes that God helps us through our mess so that we can pass along that same help to others in their mess (2Cor 1:3-5). 

Maybe you’re not in a position to make the big play right now. In sports, someone who’s not in the game can’t hit the shot or carry the ball. First of all, you’ve got to get in the game! Following Jesus isn’t a spectator sport. Get out of the luxury box and onto the field. God doesn’t need you but your family, friends, and neighbors do. Secondly, even once your in the game, you may not immediately have the chance to make the big play. For instance, you can’t knock down the game-winning bucket if you don’t have the ball. You can’t get the clutch hit when you’re not at the plate. Until then, be ready. Look for your chance. 

The timing has to be right. When opportunity does knock, make a big play. God made THE greatest clutch play of all-time when He sent His Son to save you and me in “the fullness of time” (Gal 4:4). Talk about coming through in crunch time! He did for us what we could never do for ourselves. At the end of the game, Jesus pointed to the scoreboard. “It is finished!” (Jn 19:30). He wins it for you and me in a walk off. Now we have the honor and privilege of being used by Christ in crunch time. Big players come through in big moments.

Get in the Game

“What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:9).

There comes a moment when we either need to put up or shut up. We’ve taken lessons, watched a video, read an article, and observed someone else doing it in person. Now it’s our turn. It’s at this moment we go from being a spectator to a player. It’s time to climb out of the bleachers and run onto the field. Once Jesus makes us part of His team, He wants us to stop watching and start playing. 

Paul tells his Philippian friends that the time has come to get in the game. He’s coached them up. They know what to do. They know how to do it. They’ve seen him do it. The only thing left to do now is to do it themselves. “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things and the God of peace will be with you” (v9). The time for talk is over. The time for action has come. And don’t miss what happens when we start applying what we’ve learned. God will be right there in the trenches with you giving you His peace. 

The apostle remembers those crazy days God used him to plant the Philippian church on his first visit to the city. Dr. Luke was part of the team and records a lot of it in the sequel to his biography of Jesus (Acts 16:12-40). He stopped by a couple of more times, once as after spending a few feast days while traveling (Acts 20:6) and the other when the church gave money for a drought relief fundraiser (2Cor 8:1-5). Each time he was with them, Paul taught them all about Jesus and what it means to be one of His followers. Here in this letter, he makes the point that it’s game time. It’s time to stop talking and start doing. It’s time to apply what they’ve learned and let God use them to be a firehose of His grace.

From his Roman prison cell, the apostle tells them it’s “go” time. “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things” (v9). He describes four different ways that he’s passed along the message and application of the Gospel. They’ve learned. They’ve received. They’ve heard. They’ve seen. There’s a HUGE lesson here if you’re a teacher, instructor, or coach. People learn in different ways. Some respond to lectures. Others need demonstrations. There are folks who are visual learners. When teaching, let’s not be a one-trick pony. Try different methods. Use different techniques. Research shows people retain and apply the information more quickly when we break things up, move them around, and change the environment. It sure appears that the man from Tarsus is an expert in this idea.

Learning. Receiving. Hearing. Seeing. Each of these four methods of teaching have one critical thing in common. Without going into boring detail on the original language, every last one of them leads to a result. In other words, the folks in Philippi didn’t just fill their heads with meaningless details and Bible trivia in order to do well on the final exam. This isn’t about getting a grade. No, they sat under Paul’s instruction with the intent of doing something with it. They weren’t simply professional students who were afraid of putting into practice everything they had learned. 

A team goes through drills and scrimmages with the idea of playing their opponent. Let’s never miss a big point of why we listen to messages, attend a small group, or even have our own quiet time. (Can I be blunt? I absolutely hate the phrase “quiet time.” It sounds like I’m having a prim and proper tea party with Jesus. There are mornings I need be anything but quiet. We now return you to our regular program already in progress.) But sermons, small groups, and personal Scripture study are actually means to an end. 

They’re important ways of taking our relationship with Jesus to a new level. Our man Paul knows all about the passion to know Christ more deeply (Phil 3:7-11). They’re means of giving us God’s way of thinking and seeing the world (Rom 12:2). The Lord uses them to do spiritual surgery (Heb 4:12). You see, God is taking this goofy hot mess of my life and remaking it into the image of His one and only Son (Rom 8:29). A key part of that is putting what I learn into practice. Mike Lee says if we’re going to church and reading the Bible and our lives our changing, we’re doing it wrong. If I’m not changing, I’m wasting my time. If I’m not applying what I learn Paul says I’m just filling my head with hot air (1Cor 8:1). I learn so I can apply. I study so I can do something with it. I practice so I can play the game.

A big part of Paul’s coaching has been setting an example for the Philippians. They’re to do what they’ve “seen in me” (v9). Aren’t there times that imitating someone else’s technique is the best way to learn a new skill? Playing the imitation game is a key part of the apostle’s teaching tool box. He’s already told his readers, “Brothers, join in imitating me” (Phil 3:17). When the church over in Corinth runs off the rails, the apostle tells them the best way to get back on track is to “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1Cor 11:1). Paul tells his boy Tim, “Set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity” (1Tim 4:12). The apostle Jesus nicknamed Rocky writes that spiritual leaders shouldn’t be heavy handed but instead “being examples to the flock” (1Pet 5:3). Paul isn’t so much a washed up athlete as he is a player-coach. He knows his fundamentals. He knows his technique. He knows the scouting report. If you don’t do anything else, do what he does when you get on the field.

So who are you watching? Who are the fellow Christ followers you’ve got your eyes on? Who are godly examples of how to live out what you’re learning? Maybe it’s a friend at work. Or your pastor. A buddy in your small group. That lady down the street. Maybe it’s an author you read. You know, it doesn’t have to be just one. A couple of VERY important points about following the example of others. First of all, do NOT turn them into an idol. Don’t make them your savior. Don’t make them your hero. Jesus already has that job. Second, know they’re probably going to put their life in the ditch at some point. Remember, Paul’s instructions to the Corinthians to follow him while he follows Christ. Once someone stops doing what Jesus does, you need to keep following Jesus. There’s a pretty good chance they’re going to drop the ball at some point. There are many imitators but only one Jesus.

Let’s turn that around. Who’s watching you as an example? This might seem like stupid question but it doesn’t change the fact that folks are watching. They want to know how you apply God’s Word to your life. They watch how you work. They watch how you parent. They watch you love. They watch how you drive (and wonder just how does that fish sticker hang on to that fender at such high speeds!). You may not like it, but people all around you are watching how you live as a follower of Jesus. And get this, some of them aren’t even Christian (GASP!). While the thought of folks watching you might be a little creepy, remember that this ultimately isn’t about you. They’re watching what Jesus is doing in and through you. Give Him the credit. Point people back to the resurrected Rabbi/Carpenter from Nazareth every chance you get.

Who doesn’t have butterflies before the big game? You’re lying if you say you don’t. Just in case you haven’t been paying attention, lying is bad. So bad that it made God’s Top Ten list. It’s okay to be nervous. But don’t freak out and never take the field because “the God of peace will be with you” (v9). Nothing like the peace of God straight from the God of peace when things get a little scary (Rom 15:33; 16:20; 2Cor 13:11). If you’re anxious and feel far from God, the best thing to do is to do what He says. The writer of Hebrews goes so far as to pray, “Now may the God of peace….equip you with everything good that you may do His will” (Heb 13:20-21). He promises to be present and accounted for. He promises to be right there with you. He promises to give you His peace in your obedience. Remember, His peace “surpasses all understanding” (Phil 4:7). It’s reassuring to know God and His peace will be right there at your side during crunch time.

Don’t think of this so much as a letter from Paul to the Philippians as it is a pre-game locker room speech from the coach to his team before the season opener. You know the scouting report. You know your techniques. You know all the plays. It’s time to lace up your cleats. It’s time to buckle your chin strap. It’s time get on the field. It’s “go” time. It’s game. Don’t worry, the God of peace is lining up right beside you.

Food for Thought

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:8).

Do you ever wonder what you should be wondering about? Do you think about what you should think about? Am I filling my head with mental junk food? Or do I intentionally stoke my brain with nutritional thoughts and ideas? Here in his little letter to the church in Philippi, Paul gives his friends some food for thought. “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (v8). Need something to think about? How about these high protein, low carb ideas? It’s food for thought that’s not only good tasting but good for you. 

It would be very easy for the apostle and his Philippian readers to sit down at an all-you-can-eat buffet of self-pity and bitterness. Paul sits behind bars in Rome and continues his five-plus year wait for a ruling on his case. The believers in Philippi may not be in the slammer, but have their own issues. Their pastor went to see the apostle in prison and almost died (Phil 2:25-30). Their home city erupted in Ferguson like riots when the message of Jesus spread through the community (Acts 16:19-23). On top of that, Christ followers in the region suffer from poverty and persecution (2Cor 8:1-2). I don’t know about you, but a little comfort food for poor, poor pitiful me sure would sound good.

Like a spiritual nutritionist, Paul suggests a mental meal that will build us up and not tear us down. He presents a recipe loaded with things to stoke the fire of our worship of God and our service to friends and neighbors. Just check the list of ingredients. Truth. Honor. Honesty. Innocence. Loveliness. Great reputation. Excellence. Praise. These are high quality ingredients. You’re not picking up this meal by hitting a drive-thru.

Don’t fly right by the fact that the apostle is writing to fellow disciples. The word “brothers” isn’t just limited to the guys. Paul is writing to both men and women who’ve dedicated their lives to following the resurrected Rabbi/Carpenter from Nazareth. This is the sixth time he identifies himself with his spiritual family back in Philippi (Phil 1:12; 3:1, 13, 17; 4:1). What a great reminder of the new kind of relationship we have with other believers. We’re a family. Dysfunctional, sure. But a family with an awesome and loving Heavenly Dad. 

We begin the food for thought with “whatever is true” (v8). This is the Greek word alethes, which means genuine, real, trustworthy, and honest. Our minds should be thinking about stuff that’s legit or the real deal. Don’t fall for fake or phony. One of those ideas to consider would be Jesus Himself. He told His crew, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life” (Jn 14:6). There’s no one more legit than the Lord.

Next on this brain food recipe is “whatever is honorable (Gr. semnos)” (v8). It’s the idea of something worthy of respect, dignified, noble, honest, or of good character. In a couple of letters to fellow pastors Paul used this term to describe deacons (1Tim 3:8), their wives (1Tim 3:11), as well as silver haired saints (Titus 2:2). The word actually comes from a verb meaning to worship. Somebody or something deserving of worship. Hey, I’m pretty sure Jesus is once again the perfect candidate!  

Going down the list of ingredients, we come to “whatever is just (Gr. dikaios)” (v8). He’s talking about people or things that are morally or ethically good, honest, or righteous. It carries the idea of being innocent, faultless, guiltless, virtuous, and in line with what God requires. The only One I can find in the Bible who nails this description would be the sinless Son of Man. Remember the words of Jesus’ own executioner. “Certainly this Man was innocent (Gr. dikaios)” (Lk 23:47). There’s only one Person who perfectly obeyed every single command of God. Christ Jesus. He did for us what we could never do for ourselves. Just another reason to fill our heads with thoughts of our Savior.

Sprinkle in “whatever is pure (Gr. hagnos)” (v8). This is stuff that’s free from sin, innocent, blameless, without moral defect. Jesus’ kid brother says that God’s wisdom is untarnished and “pure (Gr. hagnos)” (James 3:17). Let’s see. Who or what fills the bill of purity? How ‘bout Jesus? According to one of His best friends, Christ checks this box. “Everyone who thus hopes in Him purifies himself as He is pure (Gr. hagnos)” (1Jn 3:3).

Next up, “whatever is lovely (Gr. prosphiles)” (v8). It’s the idea of something or someone pleasing, acceptable, or friendly. This is the only time this Greek word shows up in the entire Bible. It literally means one who shows kindness to others. Remember just how incredibly gracious God has been to you and me. He didn’t change our hearts through threats and intimidation. “God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance” (Rom 2:4). If you’re looking for something lovely to ponder, I can’t think of anything better than the amazing grace we’ve experienced in Jesus. 

An important nutritional component of our food for thought is “whatever is commendable (Gr. euphema)” (v8). Paul is describing something of good report, praiseworthy, or having a great reputation. The writers of Scripture continually talk about the importance of a great rep. “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches” (Prov 22:1). It’s even better than the most expensive perfume (Ecc 7:1). And there’s no one with a better rep than Jesus. For heaven’s sake, His own Heavenly Dad gave Him “the name that is above every name” (Phil 2:9). When it comes to supernatural street cred, look no further than Christ.

“If there is any excellence (Gr. arete)” (v8), we need to add that to the list. This is goodness, virtue, valor, or nobility. The apostle Jesus nicknamed Rocky writes about how the Lord has “called us to His own glory and excellence (Gr. arete)” (2Pet 1:3). Oakland Raider fans know all about their team’s “commitment to excellence.” But their three Super Bowl trophies are a far cry from the ultimate victory Jesus has over Satan, sin, and death. Now THAT’S commitment to excellence to consider!

The last of the ingredients is “anything worthy of praise (Gr. epainos)” (v8). What deserves the spotlight? What should be on the magazine covers? What should come up first in a Google search of approval? You’ve got three guesses and the first two don’t count. God gets all of the applause and credit for drenching us in His goodness and grace through Jesus (Eph 1:6, 12, 14). Earlier in this very letter to the Philippians, Paul tells his readers to be “filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise (Gr. epainos) of God” (Phil 1:11). Who’s praiseworthy? The one and only Jesus.

Once we have the recipe assembled, it’s time to cook up this delicious dish. Put them all together and “think about these things” (v8). Our thought life is incredibly important to our walk with Christ. Just check out just a handful of tasty morsels on the topic. Solomon warned his son about the importance of what’s running through our minds. “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life” (Prov 4:23). It’s important to “take every thought captive” (2Cor 10:5). You’re to avoid falling under the influence of culture and “be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Rom 12:2). Get your mind out of the gutter and get it on the things of God. It’s one sure way to “taste and see that the LORD is good!” (Ps 34:8). 

If you don’t know what else to think about, think about beautiful things. Think about wonderful things. Think about awesome things. Think about Jesus. The author of Hebrews tell us that if we need to continually keep our eyes locked on Christ, “looking to Jesus, the Founder and Perfecter of our faith” (Heb 12:2). There’s no more delicious and nutritious food for thought than Jesus.

It Makes No Sense

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).

There are just some things that don’t make any sense. The popularity of the Kardashians. Why do we call it a pair of pants when there’s only one? We drive on the parkway and park in the driveway. What’s so “fun-sized” about candy in smaller packages? Michael Brooks even wrote a book called “13 Things that Don’t Make Sense.” Paul says we can add God’s peace to that list of things we can’t wrap our minds around. “And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (v7). 

Through our relationship with Jesus, God’s peace acts like an impenetrable force field protecting us from anxiety’s attacks. Nobody can figure how it happens. You can’t look at it under a microscope. You can’t recreate it in a lab. But you’ve seen it yourself firsthand. A friend who’s absolutely unshaken after a horrible diagnosis. A coworker who remains calm despite being downsized. A neighbor who keeps their cool in the face of the loss of a loved one. The only thing they all have in common is Christ. His presence in their lives doesn’t mean their pain isn’t real. They should feel like they’re under attack. But they have His peace protecting their hearts and minds. It just doesn’t make any sense.

There’s every reason the apostle should be personally freaked out. He’s in a Roman lockup for telling people about Jesus. And he’s been there for about five years. I don’t know about you, but I would probably be throwing myself a personal prison pity party. But not Paul. Why? Because he’s got the peace of God. And he’s writing to a bunch of friends in Philippi who aren’t exactly living in the lap of suburban luxury. It wasn’t that long ago when the message of Jesus ignited riots in the city (Acts 16:19-23). In a letter to the Corinthian church, we read about how tough things are for the Macedonian churches, which includes the Philippians. They’re facing a “severe test of affliction” and “extreme poverty” (2Cor 8:1-2). Both the author and his recipients have every reason to gripe and complain. Instead we see peace. And not just any peace. It’s the peace of God. It just doesn’t make any sense.

We’re in the homestretch of Paul’s letter and he’s giving the Philippians specific instructions. He’s spent nearly all of the first three chapters reminding them of who they are in Jesus and the unbelievable value of an intimate relationship with our Savior. Here he shifts gears and gives us application. Once we realize who we are in Christ, he tells us what to do as His followers. The indicatives lead to imperatives. The facts lead to actions. The apostle reminds us to rejoice, repeat, and rejoice again (Phil 4:4). Make sure we have a rep for sacrifice and humility (Phil 4:5). Instead of freaking out about anything, we pray to God about everything (Phil 4:6). 

Here in verse 7, we see the very practical benefit of dropping off all our worry at the feet of Jesus. God’s mind-blowing peace defends our thoughts and emotions. “The peace of God” (v7) is so much more than a lack of warfare. There’s no doubt that Jesus puts an end to our rebellion against God’s kingdom. But that’s just the start. Both the NT Greek word eirene and the OT Hebrew term shalom describe something SO much more than an end to fighting. We’re talking about total harmony and perfect order. Everything fits together. Life makes sense. Think back to the description of God’s perfect creation…before we broke it, of course. Every time the Almighty stopped to check things out, He made a point of saying just how awesome things were (Gen 1: 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31). Why? Because everything was working in shalom. Perfect, God ordained rhythm. 

In his book “Not the Way It’s Supposed to Be,” Cornelius Plantinga describes shalom as “the webbing together of God, humans, and all creation in justice, fulfillment, and delight…Shalom means universal flourishing, wholeness, and delight—a rich state of affairs in which natural needs are satisfied and natural gifts fruitfully employed. Shalom, in other words, is the way things ought to be…the full flourishing of human life in all aspects, as God intended it to be.” 

Pump your brakes and ponder that thought for a moment. Universal flourishing. Wholeness. Delight. In the light of just how jacked up our world is in the 21st Century, shalom absolutely doesn’t make sense. God’s peace is WAY beyond our limited human understanding. Flip on CNN or Fox News for just a few minutes. War. Murder. Poverty. Corruption. Entertainment news. Is there any doubt the world is spinning down the porcelain bowl? But it’s the thought that Jesus is on His way back not just to rescue you and me but to redeem our broken universe. Justin Timberlake may be bringing sexy back, but Christ is bringing God’s peace back. 

Can you think of anyone better for the job than the Prince of Peace (Is 9:6). Right before His own betrayal and murder, Jesus tells His posse, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid” (Jn 14:27). The prophet Isaiah praises God for the amazing shalom He blesses on those who lean on His goodness. “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You” (Is 26:3). Paul prays for the Thessalonians that “the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times in every way” (2Th 3:16). The apostle has a similar prayer for Colossian believers to “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Col 3:15). Don’t settle for substitutes. Don’t be fooled by imitators. There’s no better source for God’s peace than the God of peace. 

His peace does something that nothing else can or will do. His shalom “will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (v7). Paul uses a word here (Gr. phroureo) that describes the correction officer just outside his cell. It can be used either to keep someone in custody or to protect from harm. The apostle tells us that God’s peace isn’t holding us hostage but shielding us from assault. Think of the detail of Secret Service agents who protect the President. God’s peace acts in a similar way, completely surrounding and shielding our hearts and minds. 

What is He protecting us from? Fear. Worry. Panic. Why do you think they call it an anxiety attack? I don’t know about you, but it’s not the full-on front assault that worries me. It’s those emotional terrorist raids that knock me for a loop. That’s why I need to be in a continual state of prayer with and dependence upon Jesus. His peace is always on high alert. His shalom remains at DEFCON 1. His protection brings me His peace. The world around us may be spinning out of control. But His shalom keeps us calm. King David had a hit song all about how God’s protection keeps us safe when we’re strolling through Death Valley (Ps 23:4). How does it work? I dunno. It makes absolutely no sense. Kind of like why a round pizza comes in a square box and is cut in triangles.

Jesus and the Boogie Man

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6).

As a kid, I was afraid of King Kong. And I really only had myself to blame. You see, I begged my parents to take me to see the motion picture classic “King Kong versus Godzilla” down at the Roseland Theater. For some stupid reason, they actually took me. The result was a long lasting fear that a giant ape was just outside my bedroom window. For you, it may have been the Boogie Man. Maybe it was a ghost in the closet. Or the creature hiding under your bed. For me, it was King Kong. Eventually I grew out of being freaked out by oversized gorillas (do you ever REALLY outgrow a fear like that?!?). 

But several decades later, the fear is still there. It’s not a colossal ape anymore. Instead of hiding outside my bedroom window, it’s right around the corner. It lives in later today. It lurks in tomorrow, next week, next month, and next year. Something bad is out there and it’s going to get me. Kong may be massive, but my anxiety has grown to be much scarier and hairier. It now takes the form of terrors like cancer, death of a loved one, job loss, or financial crisis. How about you? What keeps you up at night? What freaks you out and robs you of joy? Let’s be honest. We all deal with the adult Boogie Man of anxiety. 

Well, our man Paul has just the answer in his letter to his friends back in Philippi. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (v6). You may be saying to yourself, “That’s all well and good for the apostle, but what does he know about the stuff that’s freaking me out?” I’m so glad you asked! The former Pharisee isn’t writing this letter from some seaside resort under a palm tree. He’s in the slammer doing hard time for telling the world about Jesus. And he’s been there about five years. He’s writing to a church that’s been cold cocked by persecution and poverty. If ANYBODY knows how to deal with anxiety and fear, it would be Paul. 

The apostle begins by tell us what NOT to do. “Do not be anxious about anything” (v6). The word here for “anxious” (Gr. merimnao) means to worry or to be overly concerned about something. We’re talking about a fear based based on apprehension about possible danger or misfortune. The term has the idea of dividing our attention and diverting us with anything that’s not a priority. How many times have you obsessed over something when you should have been focusing on something else? 

Anxiety distracts us from what’s really important. There’s an old saying that says Jesus was crucified between two thieves, yesterday and tomorrow. Yesterday’s regrets and tomorrow’s fears rob our joy of today. How can we really enjoy the overflowing abundant life that God has for us today and be fully present when we’re so worried about what’s going to happen tomorrow? Paul tells us to stop being distracted, divided, and diverted by anxiety. Could that be the Boogie Man’s goal all along? To steal the joy of Jesus we have in the present. 

The apostle commands us to stop freaking out about every little thing. Don’t believe me? Read it again. “Do not be anxious about ANYTHING” (v6 emphasis added). Anything? Surely, he can’t be serious. (In my best Leslie Nielson voice, “I am serious. And don’t call me ‘Shirley.’”) What should I worry about? Nothing. Zip. Zilch. Zero. If I’m freaked out about something, obsessed about something, distracted by something, then I’m doing it wrong! 

If you’re not buying what Paul’s selling, check out what Jesus Himself had to say during His most popular sermon (Mt 6:25-34). Three times our Savior says, “Do not be anxious (Gr. merimnao)” (Mt 6:25, 31, 34). Instead of freaking out, He tells us to go bird watching. Because God made you and me in His image, we’re more valuable to Him than any pigeon or peacock. Check out the wildflowers. They’re gorgeous but they’ll only be around a short time. Again, our Heavenly Dad loves you and will make sure you’ve got something to wear. Instead of wasting my time in worry I should “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Mt 6:33). 

When I worry, two things happen. Two BIG things happen. Two BAD things happen. First of all, I fail to recognize God is the sovereign ruler of the universe. I may say garbage like “Oh, I don’t want to bother the Lord with such trivial stuff.” But that’s His job! Running creation and dealing with problems is His specialty. Second, I put myself in charge when I worry. My anxiety is the result of telling God I’ve got this. This is what we call pride, boys and girls. It’s all part of that age old rebellion against His throne that our first parents perpetrated when they listened to the satanic snake. “You will be like God” (Gen 3:5). When I worry, I’m actually shaking my fist at the Almighty and telling Him I’m in charge now. Just in case you haven’t been paying attention, when you fight against God you lose. Every. Single. Time.

So what’s the answer to worry? Here’s the cool part. Since God has a zero-tolerance policy on anxiety, He invites me to tell Him all about what’s wigging me out. Paul tells us instead, “But in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (v6). Instead trying to run the universe all by myself, why not drop it off with the One who created it in the first place? Remember, we’re the folks responsible for jacking up the joint. 

I need to take all of that baggage I’ve been dragging around and drop it off with Somebody that can actually do something about it. And I don’t mean a few of the big bulky items. Not just a couple of the heavy steamer trunks of anxiety. Paul closes every loophole. “In EVERYTHING by prayer” (v6 emphasis added). I don’t get to keep a couple of my favorite worries. Get rid of every last stinking one of them. Got fears? Drop them off with Jesus. Worry? Give them to Christ. Dread? Swing by the throne of God. Don’t let the Boogie Man bully you. Jesus is bigger than the Boogie Man. 

We do this through regular “prayer” (v6). Don’t get the crazy idea that you need to use some goofy God talk in order to pray. No “beseeching” required. No “thou, thy, and thee”  mandatory. Prayer is simply the idea of being in regular conversation with God. Just talk to Him. Be honest. Be respectful. You’re not only talking to the Person who loves you more than anyone else in the universe, He’s also the only One who can really do anything about it. Full disclosure here. My prayer life stinks. And because of that, I tend to get my undies in a bundle over worry. But every time I give it all to my Heavenly Dad, the 800-pound gorilla becomes as harmless as a house fly. 

The apostle makes some important points about prayer. First of all, we’re to use what the ESV calls “supplication” (v6). The original language here (Gr. de’esis) describes a desperate plea or a request for help with a need. John Piper says we should picture a soldier pinned down in a foxhole with the enemy all around. He uses his radio to call in air support or artillery. That’s supplication. Too often we see prayer as the means of calling on God like some sort of divine butler. Instead of a wartime walkie talkie, our prayers are more like ringing a bell for a supernatural servant. We're not in Downton Abbey calling Mr. Carson. That’s NOT supplication. This is war. So when our worry has us pinned down, let’s call in the Big Gun. 

Our worry-busting prayers should drip with “thanksgiving” (v6). We should call on God with attitude of gratitude. Let’s be thankful for all that He’s done for us so far. Remember, God gave His one and only Son as the ultimate act of love (Jn 3:16). Christ actually came to our rescue despite the fact that we were still rebels against His kingdom (Rom 5:8). He did for us what we could never dream of doing for ourselves. Jesus lived the perfect life of obedience to God’s law that we failed to live. He died the death of punishment for our sin that we should have died. He rose to a spectacular new life that we don’t deserve. Let’s be grateful for all He’s done in what folks call “The Great Exchange” (2Cor 5:21). But let’s be thankful IN ADVANCE for how God will respond to our prayer. He knows exactly what to do. He knows exactly how to do it. He knows exactly when to to do it. Instead of worrying about what may go down, we can be grateful for Who’s going to handle it. Remember, Jesus is bigger than the Boogie Man.

Can I make one more suggestion? Don’t keep your prayer requests to yourself. You may have stuff going on you don’t want to share on the wide world web. But find a safe place to share them OUT LOUD. A small group. A pastor. A trusted friend who follows Jesus. There may be a time and place for those so-called “unspoken” prayer requests, but it’s best when we can verbalize what’s scaring the crap out of us. And if there’s one Person with the capacity, care, and confidentiality to handle my mess, it’s God. He’s totally capable. He’s completely compassionate. He’s totally trustworthy. We’re talking about the ultimate phone-a-friend. Unlike anyone else, He’s waiting to pick up. He’s looking forward to your call. 

The next time the King Kong of my own worry is waiting around the corner (and there will be a “next time!”), I have a Hero who will to the rescue. How about you? Freaked out about the ghost in the closet of your career? Spooked by the monster under the bed of your health? Call on the One who’s already defeated death. Remember, Jesus is bigger than the Boogie Man.

What's Your Rep?

“Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand” (Philippians 4:5).

For Thomas Edison, it’s the light bulb. The Wright boys Wilbur and Orville made a name for themselves for powered flight. We’ll always remember Rosa Parks for her courage to keep her seat on the bus. Cameron Crowe's film tells the story of a wannabe writer who was "Almost Famous." And who can forget the Kardashians who are famous for…famous for…famous for what exactly?!? Famous for being famous? How about you? What’s your rep? What are you known for? 

Paul tells us we should be famous for not wanting to win. “Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand” (v5). I realize this wasn’t how Dale Earnhardt earned his nickname as the Intimidator. He’s famous for saying, “Second place is just the first place loser.” That might be how you get to Victory Lane at the track, but not in life. Just like Jesus who’s encore is right around the corner, we should be well known for helping others to succeed and be first.

You might think the apostle writes from a pie-in-the-sky-sweet-by-and-by perspective. All that consideration for others stuff may work for him as a pastor and missionary, but not in the real world. Slow your roll and remember where Paul is when he writes to his friends in Philippi. He’s behind bars in Rome and he’s been in the joint for about five years since his original arrest in Jerusalem at the temple riot (Acts 21:30-36). So the man from Tarsus isn’t writing this call to graciousness from an ivory tower. Despite being  an innocent man, the apostle is in the slammer. I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be telling my friends to be reasonable if I were doing hard time in Caesar’s supermax. A cake with a file? Yes. Now THAT would be reasonable!

What exactly does the apostle mean when he says, “Let your reasonableness be known to everyone” (v5)? Well, a closer look at the original text would probably help us out. Where the ESV translators give us “reasonableness” is the Greek word epieikes. This term has a boatload of meaning. Everything from gentleness, graciousness, fairness, forbearance, consideration to moderation. According to MacArthur, it can mean contentment with generosity toward others, or mercy toward others’ faults and failures, and even patience when suffering unjustly. Think graciousness and humility. A willingness to yield despite having every right to be first in line. Hmm, Who does THAT sound like? (Feel free to flip back to Philippians 2:1-11 just in case it slipped your mind.)

Check out how the writers of the NT use this word epieikes. Paul tells his boy Tim how “an overseer must be…not a drunkard, not violent but gentle (Gr. epieikes), not quarrelsome, not a lover of money” (1Tim 3:2, 3). Later he encourages Titus to tell folks in his congregation “to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle (Gr. epieikes), and to show perfect courtesy toward all people” (Titus 3:2). Jesus’ kid brother James writes how God’s wisdom “is first pure, then peaceable, gentle (Gr. epieikes), open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, and sincere” (James 3:17). Peter tells us to be good employees whether our bosses are “good and gentle (Gr. epieikes) but also to the unjust” (1Pet 2:18). 

Don’t mistake “gentle” for “doormat.” You may have the ability to fight for first place doesn’t mean it’s the best thing to do. Paul says just because you can doesn’t mean you should. God gives the followers of Jesus an inner strength and power to step back and let others get the win. Check out how the Message puts this part of the verse. “Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you’re on their side, working with them and not against them” (v5 The Message). Instead of a wimpy weakling, picture a 300-pound pulling guard ready to pancake a linebacker so his teammate can get to the end zone. “Doormat?” I think not!

If we’re going to be in the headlines for something, it should be for clearing the way for others to succeed. “Let your reasonableness be known to everyone” (v5). The Kardashians may be famous for simply being famous (how in the world does THAT happen?!?), we’re to earn a rep for unselfishness. Let the watching world see just how gentle and gracious you are. “Let all men know and perceive and recognize your unselfishness (your considerateness, your forbearing spirit)” (v5 AMP).In other words, Paul wants his readers to become famous for following Jesus by being Jesus to their friends and neighbors.

Take a look around. Who needs your help? Who’s struggling to just to stay in the race much less finish first? Who has Jesus placed in your life that you can assist and get the win? And think back to those people who’ve been there for you when you were down for the count after life sucker punched you. Where would you be without these folks who weren’t worried about winning and came to your rescue?

The apostle seems to drop a phrase out of nowhere that initially doesn’t make any sense. “The Lord is at hand” (v5). This can mean a couple of things. He’s either saying that Christ is just about to make His long-promised encore or He’s closer than we realize. In other words, the word here (Gr. eggus) can mean refer to either time (about to arrive) or space (right around the corner). Well, our Savior did say once everything was in place, He would make His spectacular comeback (Mk 13:3-31). In the meantime, “Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come” (Mk 13:33). Or Paul could be talking about how our risen Lord is right here with us. Just before He physically headed home to heaven, Jesus promised, “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Mt 28:20). Whether we’re talking time or space, Jesus is right around the corner. 

Until Christ comes back, let’s do what we can to earn a rep for reasonableness. Let’s be known for humbly helping others win in life. Let’s be known for Christlike unselfishness. Let’s be famous for serving others. Isn’t that reasonable?

Rejoice. Repeat.

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice” (Philippians 4:4).

Let’s face facts. Life can blindside you. It can kick the stuffing out of you when you least expect. Knock the wind out of you. 

But according to Paul, there’s one thing life can’t take away. Our joy in Jesus. 

I want to make it clear this isn’t going to be one of those turn-that-frown-upside-down and pretend nothing’s wrong pep talks. 

An unexpected sucker punch hurts. No question about it. But God gives us something no one can steal. His joy. 

So no matter the situation, the instructions are clear. “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice” (v4). 

Rejoice. Repeat.

The apostle doesn’t just suggest joy. This isn’t a recommendation. He’s not making a proposal. Nope, it’s a command. 

A closer look at the grammar of the original text is in what scholars call the imperative. Paul doesn’t simply hint that joy might be a good idea. He orders it. 

Who in the world does this dude think he is to order me to rejoice?

I saw you roll your eyes. That’s okay. I would too. But let’s dive a little deeper at the context of this seemingly crazy command. 

First of all, the one doing the writing is Paul. You may have heard of him. 

Wrote most of the New Testament. Traveled the Mediterranean Rim telling everyone who would listen about Jesus. 

His passion for the Gospel ticked off enough people that he ended up in prison. And that’s where he is as he writes this little letter. 

The apostle isn’t sitting seaside sipping on a drink with an umbrella in it. He’s doing hard time in Caesar’s supermax in Rome. Somehow, someway, he has the joy of Jesus in the joint.

You may think he’s encouraging his readers to get over their first world problems. Well, his friends back in Philippi aren’t exactly living the life of leisure either. 

Dr. Luke tells us how the Gospel of Jesus turned the city upside down to the point of rioting and mob violence (Acts 16:12-40). Think Ferguson and Baltimore. 

A quick check of the map in the back of your Bible tells us Philippi is in Macedonia, just down the road from other churches in Thessalonica and Berea. 

In one of his letters to the Corinthians, Paul lets us know what the Lord was up to in the region despite a massive economic downturn. 

“We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part” (2Cor 8:1-2). 

Did you catch that? “A severe test of affliction…their extreme poverty.” Despite all of that, they had “abundance of joy!”

An epistle from Paul in prison. Written to a people in poverty. Still think this joy of Jesus is some sort of joke? No, I didn’t think so either.

The pages of this letter drip with joy. The apostle mentions it one way or another 14 times. 

So for those of us who’ve been reading along, this idea of doesn’t come out of left field. “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice” (v4). 

As a matter of fact, it’s a variation on what he said to kick things off at the beginning of chapter three. “Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord” (Phil 3:1). 

Just in case you weren’t paying attention the first time, Paul hammers that nail two more times here in chapter four. 

Rejoice. Repeat. 

“Rejoice” is the Greek word χαιρω/chairo. It means to be exceedingly glad, delight, be happy, or fully enjoy a state of blessing. 

The verb isn’t just a command. It’s also in the present tense. Paul’s order isn’t just a one-and-done gladness. 

It’s not something we do once, check off the list and never have to worry about again. The heart of this command is  to be exceedingly glad in God…and stay that way!

As you might imagine, joy in Jesus is one of Paul’s favorite topics. The apostle tells the Thessalonian church just down the road from Philippi, “Rejoice always” (1Th 5:16). 

He writes to his buddies in Rome to “rejoice in hope” (Rom 12:12). In other words, there’s no reason to let your circumstances get you down for long. Jesus is coming back. And He’s coming back for you!  

But as followers of Christ, we shouldn’t force feed our euphoria down everyone’s throats. “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep” (Rom 12:15). 

The joy of the Lord is one of the major themes throughout the entire Bible. Don’t make the mistake of thinking the OT is nothing but wrath and judgment of an angry God. 

Joy is on page after page from Genesis to Malachi (Lev 23:40; Dt 12:12; 1Sam 2:1; 1Chr 16:31; Ez 6:22). 

Yahweh tells His chosen people to party down as a way of remembering His goodness toward them. “You shall rejoice, you and your households, in all that you undertake, in which the LORD your God has blessed you” (Dt 12:7). 

The Psalms is a discography of God’s greatest hits. It’s no surprise that it’s full of songs of joy. Pharrell’s “Happy” may be a nice little tune. But compared to the Psalms, “Party Rock Anthem” pales in comparison. 

King David drops one of my favorite lyrics in the Psalm 37. “Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Ps 37:4). 

In other words, when we find our joy in God Himself, He’ll make sure to give you more of Him! Dive into the deep end of your relationship with the Lord! There’s no better place to be! 

As a matter of fact, Paul just told us how he’s put everything else on the back burner of his life in order to get more of Jesus (Phil 3:7-11). 

The apostle doesn’t want anyone to miss the joy so he says it one more time. “Again I will say, rejoice” (v4). The command so nice he says it twice. 

Robertson believes he  repeats the order of joy for emphasis in spite of discouragements. In other words, it’s never a bad idea to keep reminding each other of the joy we have in Jesus when the getting blindsided by a broken world. 

It’s one of the big reasons we need each other as we follow Christ. I’m desperate to have others getting my eyes off my problems and onto my Savior. Maybe you don’t. I know I do. 

But how in the world does Paul have the gall to COMMAND me to rejoice? How is that possible? 

Did you realize that God’s Spirit is actually producing joy in you right here, right now? You see, joy ranks number two in the fruit of the Spirit just behind love (Gal 5:22-23)! 

So we don’t have to stir up phony happiness. There’s no chance of longterm joy without Him. God grows His joy in you and me. And He keeps growing it. That gives us the ability to rejoice and repeat. 

This isn’t just a phony the-glass-is-always-half-full-and-somebody-is-going-top-it-off attitude. Paul calls us to a joy “in the Lord” (v4). 

A moment ago, Paul told Euodia and Synthyche to stop their Philippian Family Feud and “to agree in the Lord” (Phil 4:2). 

When we agree in who Jesus is and what He has done for us, it won’t be long before the fighting stops and the party begins. When our joy is connected to our Savior and not our circumstances, it never stops. 

Just in case you’re keeping score, here’s a list of places NOT to find your joy. Not in marriage. Not in sex. Not in kids. Not in career. Not in vacations. Not TV (especially NOT in reality TV!). Not in movies. Not in drugs. Not in alcohol. 

God designed us to find our longterm joy in one place. In one Person. In. The. Lord.

Once again, our friends over in The Message have a fabulous fresh take on this verse. “Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean revel in Him!” (v4 The Message). 

Celebrate God. All the time. Really party in your heart because of who He is and all He’s done. And when you get done, do it all over again. 

Rejoice. Repeat.

©2015
Jay Jennings

The Philippian Family Feud

“I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the Gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life” (Philippians 4:2-3).

Long before Steve Harvey asked what the survey said, there have been family feuds. And folks fight some of the most bitter battles in the places you’d least expect them. That would be in the church. There are siblings who simply don’t get along among God’s kids. We’re supposed to be spiritual brothers and sisters but, let’s face it, we can put the funk in dysfunction as well as any family. 

While he’s not dealing with a serious doctrinal disaster like what’s going on in Corinth, Colossae, Galatia, and Ephesus, Paul works to extinguish a fire before it burns down the entire Philippian congregation. Sparks are flying between a couple of leaders in the local church. “I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the Gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life” (v2-3). Call it the Philippian Family Feud.

Two leaders. Two women. Two of Paul’s closest teammates. Two true believers. It all adds up to one big disagreement. But the apostle encourages these ladies to stop focusing on their differences and get their eyes on what they have in common in Christ. When we agree on Jesus, we stop playing the feud.

Let’s face it. Too many of our churches aren’t so much a peaceful house of prayer for all people but a gruesome octagon for religious MMA. We fight over pastors. We slug it out over music. We brawl about sermons. Ever hear about the infamous throw-down over the color of the carpet? Our enemy loves to distract us from our bigger mission of telling the world about Jesus. Satan dupes us into fighting among ourselves to get us off our game. The devil himself is the host of this demonic version of family feud.

There’s an old story about sailors from a ship rescuing a man living alone on a deserted island. They ask him why there are three huts if he’s the only one there. “Well, the first one is my house,” he says. “The second is where I go to church. The third one is where I used to go to church!” We laugh because it’s funny. We laugh because it’s true. 

After writing to the entire Philippian church, Paul singles out two ladies. “I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord” (v2). So who are these two people with incredibly weird names? While this is the only time we read about them in the entire Bible, the apostle most likely met them both during his original trip to this Macedonian seaport. They could be friends of Lydia. Paul and his posse met the fashionista from Thyatira and her friends at a riverside prayer meeting in the city (Acts 16:13-14). Could one of them be the young lady the apostle rescued from both human trafficking and demonic possession (Acts 16:16-18)? It’s possible one of them is the wife or daughter of the warden of the local Roman prison unit (Acts 16:27-34).

These two are important leaders in the local church. The apostle makes a point of remembering how he served on a team with “these women, who have labored side by side with me in the Gospel together with Clement” (v3). Clearly God used this Philippian Fantastic Four in a big way to tell the city about Jesus. He has fond memories of how they  “labored side by side” (v3). This is the Greek verb sunathleo, which means to fight together. Paul, Euodia, Synthyche, and Clement stood shoulder to shoulder for the cause of Christ to push back the darkness in His name. For whatever reason, they’re now fighting WITH each other. 

This has now escalated into a full scale Philippian Family Feud. What are they fighting about? Well, the apostle doesn’t give us any of the specifics but there is plenty of speculation. Many Bible scholars suspect Euodia and Synthyche are high level leaders in the local church. Despite sexist attempts to twist Scripture and turn congregations into some sort of men’s club, God has always seen fit to place women in key places of influence in His kingdom. 

In the OT, Deborah was a judge over Israel (Jdg 4:4). God used ladies like Ruth and Esther in a large way. Where would Jesus’ own ministry be without the critical support of Mary and Martha, Mary Magdalene, and his very own mom. (Apparently our Savior has a soft spot for the name “Mary.”) Throughout the rest of the NT, women are key leaders in spreading the Gospel. Priscilla is a rock star (Acts 18:2, 28, 26; Rom 16:3; 1Cor 16:19; 2Tim 4:19). Phoebe is not only a point person in the church over in Cenchreae but bankrolled Paul’s missions (Rom 16:1). While a complementarian view sees women and men as having different roles in local congregations, it doesn’t limit their influence.  

Meanwhile back in Philippi, these two strong leaders are clearly in strong disagreement. According to Kennedy, “it may have been accidental friction between two energetic Christian women.” Some people suggest the possibility of a church split with each holding hosting meetings in their respective homes. Paul had his own family feud with Barnabas and John Mark (Acts 15:36-41). Let’s face it, clashes between people of passion aren’t anything new. Jesus calls His followers to handle them differently. We’re to drench our disagreements in His forgiveness, His grace, and His mercy. 

Paul pleads with Euodia and Synthyche “to agree in the Lord” (v2). You can literally translate this as being “of the same mind in the Lord.” Hmm. That sounds familiar, doesn’t it? The apostle says something incredibly similar back in chapter two when he quotes that first century praise song about Jesus. “So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind” (Phil 2:1-2).

So what does it mean “to agree in the Lord” (v2)? At the very core is to agree about who Jesus is, what He’s done, and what He’s going to do. We should all agree that He’s the sinless Son of God. He’s the Second Person of the Trinity. Fully God. Fully Man. He lived the life of perfection to God’s law that we’ve failed to live. He died the death for our sin and disobedience that we should have died. He rose to a glorious new life that we don’t deserve. He’s coming back one day for the greatest encore in the history of the universe to fix everything that we broke. And we ALL need Him! Can we agree on that? Being of the same mind about Jesus goes a LONG way in soothing family feuds.

The writer of Hebrews encourages us focus on Him while we run the race of life, “looking to Jesus, the Founder and Perfecter of our faith” (Heb 12:1-2). Here’s the beauty of heading in the direction of our Savior. No matter how far apart we are, we’ll always be getting closer together when we’re sprinting His way. Too many times we obsess over what drives us apart. We concentrate over what’s wrong with our archenemy. Do you actually have an archenemy? Can we talk for a moment? Nobody except superheroes have archenemies. Get your eyes off what separates you and get them on Christ. Stop fixating the feud. Start worshiping the One who died to bring us all together. 

Paul certainly understands there are going to be times when we can’t get this done without outside help. Sometimes we need another set of ears and eyes to sit down with us. Call them a referee. Call them a counselor. Here in Philippians, Paul calls them his “true companion” (v3). The Greek word here is suzugos, which means colleague, teammate, or partner. It’s a variation of the term used to describe livestock yoked together to pull something heavy. Picture the Clydesdales. The apostle calls on one of his dear friends he’s worked side-by-side with to step into feud. Some folks think it could be Lyda. It could actually Epaphroditus, the pastor of the Philippian church who’s hand delivering this letter back home (Phil 2:25-28). While we’re not exactly sure who it was, you can bet Euodia and Syntyche did. 

Who’s the person you would call on if and when you have a squabble with another brother or sister in Christ? If you’re like me, the first one you think of is someone you would hope would take your side. Pump your brakes a bit and ask yourself who has the spiritual maturity to help us reach the decision that most honors Jesus. It may be a pastor. It may be a counselor. It may be a small group leader. It may simply be someone who’s not afraid to speak the truth in love to you. Would someone come to you as that third person? Do you have a tender heart for fellow Christ followers and the willingness to speak into their lives? Maybe you could be that “true companion” (v3) who brings folks back together. Don’t forget Jesus’ words from his most popular sermon. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God” (Mt 5:9).

While it may seem silly to see fights among fellow believers, it probably shouldn’t be unexpected either. Once God’s Spirit lights a fire in your belly, you become passionate about His kingdom. But when sparks fly, we need to remember we’re all playing for the same team. We’re all members of Team Jesus. Remember “to agree in the Lord” (v2). Find a “true companion” (v3) to mediate. There’s no time to waste playing the Philippian Family Feud.

Great Teams Have Great Fans

“Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and my crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved” (Philippians 4:1).

Great teams have great fans. Some cheering sections even have their own nicknames. The Cleveland Browns have the Dog Pound. At Texas A&M football games, there’s the tradition of the 12th Man. The Cameron Crazies are a big reason Duke is almost impossible to beat at home. These great fans know there are crucial times in each game. They get even louder in order to inspire their team at just the right moment. A crucial basket. A goal line stand. How about having the Apostle Paul as your number one fan?!?! He may be behind bars in Rome, but he knows it’s crunch time in Philippi. He cheers his friends on to stay rock solid in the trust of Jesus. Now is not the time to waver. You see, great teams have great fans. 

In the previous chapter, Paul confesses the horrible mistake he made of devoting his life to building up his own religious resume in order to impress God (Phil 3:4-6). But once Jesus literally knocked him off his high horse outside of Damascus (Acts 9:1-9), the man from Tarsus realized everything he had worked so hard to obtain was nothing more than a big steaming pile compared to a relationship with the resurrected Christ (Phil 3:7-8). By the way, if you turn your nose up at the comparison of good works with a mound of fecal matter, take it up with Paul. The apostle makes it his life goal to know Jesus more deeply and intimately as he trusts in who He is and what He’s done that we could never do for ourselves (Phil 3:9-16). He pleads with this little church back in Macedonia to be great citizens of God’s kingdom and wait expectantly for our Savior to make His magnificent return (Phil 3:2-21). Now is NOT the time to throw in the towel. Now is NOT the time to give up. 

We pick things up in chapter four. And that’s actually a bit of a problem. That big number 4 might lead us to believe Paul has something different to say at this point in the letter. But the apostle has nothing to do with all these numbered chapters and verses. Bible translators added all of those over the centuries in order to help us find stuff in God’s Word. Think of them as zip codes and addresses. These numbers help us pin down the exact locations of specific passages. But occasionally we can stub our scriptural toes on verse numbers and chapter breaks. 

Right out of the chute, the apostle uses the word “therefore” (v1). This is the Greek conjunction souto. Schoolhouse Rock asks the musical question, “Conjunction Junction, what’s your function?” (Got that stuck in your head now? You’re welcome.) Well, souto connects what he’s just said with what he’s about to say. Anytime you see the word “therefore,” you need ask what is it there for. The word means for this reason, so that, accordingly, in this way, thus, or as follows. It causes us to look back as we look ahead. And Paul uses it not once, but twice here verse one. He’s hooking up the idea of his pursuit of Jesus while waiting for His spectacular encore with the encouragement that we should all do the same. 

Like a passionate fan, Paul has nicknames for his favorite team. The folks back in Philippi are “my brothers, whom I love and long for, my crown and my joy…my beloved” (v1). He begins by reminding them that every follower of Jesus is a family member. “My brothers” (v1). Don’t make the mistake of thinking the apostle is just talking to the guys. Read this as “brothers and sisters.” The Philippians have a special place in his heart. “Whom I love…my beloved” (v1). Twice he uses the Greek word for someone on the receiving end of agape. This the self-sacrificing love-in-action that Jesus demonstrates to you and me. As a matter of fact, our Heavenly Dad used this very same term of endearment when talking to His one and only Son Jesus (Mt 3:17; 12:18).

From his prison cell in Caesar’s Supermax, Paul thinks about his Philippian friends all the time. He writes how they are “whom…I long for” (v1). He writes a word in the original text (Gr. epipothetos) which describes one yearned for, an affectionately craving, a powerful desire, or pursuit out of love. He expresses the deep pain of separation. It hurts to be cut off from them. Earlier he let them know, “I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus” (Phil 1:8). Have you ever been separated from a dear friend or loved one and couldn’t get them out of your head? Well, Paul feels your pain. He would do just about anything to hang out with his crew again. 

The apostle calls his friends “my joy” (v1). They are his delight. They make him overwhelmingly happy. Just thinking about them gives him great pleasure. But joy? Really? The dude is in the slammer. But his delight has nothing to do with his circumstances. As a matter of fact, this letter to the Philippians absolutely drips with joy. Fourteen different times, Paul uses a form of the word “joy” or “rejoice” (Phil 1:4, 18, 25; 2:2, 17, 18, 28, 29; 3:1; 4:1, 4, 10). His relationship with Jesus brings the apostle a deep delight that prison can’t take away. And knowing his friends back in Philippi are faithful in following Jesus gives him joy in the joint.

These folks not only put happiness in his heart but a “crown” (v1) on his head. He uses the Greek word (Gr. stephanos) which means wreath, which was the award given to the winner of athletic competition. It’s the prize won as a symbol of honor and victory. Our man Paul sure seems to be a big sports fan. He’s constantly talking about trophies and titles won by athletes in competition (1Cor 9:25). The Philippian church is proof positive that his work to tell the world about Jesus is a success! The church down the road in Thessalonica is also community of believers that exists as proof of this worker’s success (1Th 2:19). This crown of Philippian believers came as a result of Paul throwing everything else aside in order to know Jesus (Phil 3:7-11).

Like a fan urging on his team, the apostle cheers them to “stand firm thus in the Lord” (v1). He actually drops a military term (Gr. steko) describing a soldier who refuses to get knocked back from his position. Think of a goal line stand in football. Picture a basketball team needing a stop. It’s crunch time. The game is on the line. Vince Lombardi liked to say, “When the going gets tough the tough get going!” How ‘bout Jim Valvano’s who said, “Don’t give up! Don’t ever give up!” Over and over, the Apostle Paul encourages fellow believers to hold their ground and not give in (1Cor 16:13; Gal 5:1; 1Th 3:8). Earlier in this same letter, Paul pleads for the Philippians live Gospel-worthy lives because then he “will know that you are standing firm (Gr. steko) in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the Gospel” (Phil 1:27).

We need to hang tough in our trust of Jesus. We need to hang tough in our relationship with Christ. Not the church. Not on the job. Not in the family. Not in reading the Bible. Not in politics. Not in our volunteer work. Not in hobbies. Those things are awesome. But they pale in comparison to our faith in Jesus. Many people like to say “once saved, always saved.” They think that simply because they said a prayer, walked an aisle, or got wet that they’re eternally good to go. Not so fast my friend. The better idea is “IF saved, always saved.” We hang tough when we exhibit the fruit of our faith in our lives. Are we going to stumble? You betcha. Are we going to fall flat on our faces? Count on it. While we don’t save ourselves, Scripture clearly tells us to do everything we can to hang on to Jesus with everything we have. Paul calls us to a life of following Christ because He’s already saved us. We MUST hang tough in Jesus! He certainly won’t let go of you and me. 

Who’s cheering you on? Who gets loud in your life when the game is on the line? Having raving fans is critical to following Christ. Meanwhile, who are you encouraging to hang in there as a Jesus follower? Who needs to hear your voice now that there backs are against the wall? Who are you reminding to be faithful because our Savior is faithful? Let’s be the biggest fans of our brothers and sisters. As Eugene Peterson says in the Message, “My dear, dear friends! I love you so much. I do want the very best for you. You make me feel such joy, fill me with such pride. Don’t waver. Stay on track, steady in God” (v1 The Message). Get on your feet and let the team hear you! It’s crunch time. Dig in. Make a stand. Great teams have great fans.