Philippians 4 Study Notes

4:12 I know results from evaluating various circumstances. The difficult circumstances are to make do with little, to be hungry, and to be in need. The contrasting good are to make do with a lot, to be well fed, and to be in abundance. Together these taught Paul how to be content.

4:13 All things refers to the economic fluctuations of life (v. 12). Through him who strengthens me teaches that Christ empowers believers to live in God’s will. Paradoxically, Paul was strong when he was weak; independent only when dependent. Such is the life of a disciple.

4:14 Partnering is the word for “fellowship” (1:5). Hardship is “tribulations.” Real partners share difficulties.

4:15 The early days of the gospel refers to Paul’s leaving Philippi to continue witnessing in Europe. Shared is, again, “fellowship” (v. 14; 1:5). Others had a one-way relationship, receiving but not giving. You alone reveals one reason why Paul loved the Philippian church. They did what others did not.

4:16 Paul entered Thessalonica after leaving Philippi, and the Philippian believers’ gifts to him began immediately and continued consistently (several times).

4:17 With contentment (v. 11) and adaptability (v. 12), Paul did not seek the gift. That would abuse his converts and compromise servanthood. With a higher, spiritual motivation, Paul sought the profit that is increasing to your account. Using financial terms, Paul declared this “profit” accrued from an action. “Increasing” is the interest it would bear to the account of the Philippian believers. Giving, a physical and material act, is a spiritual transaction.

4:18 Continuing financial language, Paul had received everything in full. Any responsibility to him was paid. What Epaphroditus embodied was an abundance. Their material support was a fragrant offering and an acceptable sacrifice because it met Paul’s needs and was pleasing to God (cp. Rm 12:1-2). Giving always benefits those who give more than those who receive.

4:19-20 God bountifully blesses those who give with glorious provision in accord with his glory and for his purposes. Paul’s doxology is based on the ultimate purpose of life to bring glory to God now and forever.

4:21-22 Caesar’s household indicates there were Christians in Rome related to the Roman emperor. “Household” probably indicates they were not immediate family; they were perhaps members of the civil service.