Philippians 4
Philippians • Sermon • Submitted • Presented
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· 65 viewsPhilippians 4 teaches believers to rejoice always, to be anxious for nothing, and to find contentment in all circumstances through the strength of Christ, while encouraging gratitude and reliance on God's provision.
Notes
Transcript
Context
Philippians 4 is the concluding chapter of this letter, and it reflects Paul's gratitude, his final exhortations, and his unwavering joy amidst trying circumstances.
Theme and Outline
Philippians 4 encapsulates the main essence of Paul's exhortations to the church in Philippi, underscoring themes of unity, joy, peace, and contentment.
The Call to Harmony and Joy (Philippians 4:1-3): Paul stresses the importance of unity in the church, specifically entreating Euodia and Syntyche to be of the same mind. These two women, who once toiled side by side with Paul in spreading the gospel, are urged to reconcile and work together in harmony for the sake of the gospel. As believers, we're not simply part of an organization; we're part of a family. As such, unity isn't a luxury; it's a necessity.
Rejoicing, Gentleness, and the Nearness of the Lord (Philippians 4:4-5): Paul emphasizes the need to "rejoice in the Lord always." This rejoicing is not contingent upon favorable circumstances but on the unwavering nature and promises of God. Moreover, believers should let their gentleness be evident to all, knowing that the Lord is near—both in terms of His imminent return and His continual presence with us.
The Antidote to Anxiety (Philippians 4:6-7): Rather than being overtaken by worries, Paul advises believers to present their requests to God through prayer and supplication, accompanied by thanksgiving. The result is the peace of God, which surpasses all human understanding and guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. It's a peace that's not necessarily the absence of trouble, but the presence of Christ.
The Discipline of the Mind (Philippians 4:8-9): Paul outlines what believers should dwell upon—whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy. By focusing on these virtues and by putting into practice what they've learned and seen in Paul, they can experience the God of peace in their lives.
Contentment in Every Circumstance (Philippians 4:10-13): Paul speaks of his own experience of contentment, whether in need or plenty. He can do all things through Christ who strengthens him. This statement isn't about accomplishing any desire we have, but about being content and strong in any situation through the power of Christ.
Gratitude for the Philippians' Partnership (Philippians 4:14-20): Paul acknowledges the generous gift he received from the Philippians, stressing that it's not the gift itself he's after but the "fruit that increases to their credit." He assures them that God will supply all their needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Benediction (Philippians 4:21-23): Paul ends the letter with greetings and blessings, solidifying the sense of community and shared mission between him and the Philippians.
Throughout Philippians 4, we see an underlying theme of the sufficiency of Christ in all things, whether it's maintaining unity, finding joy, achieving peace, disciplining the mind, or experiencing contentment.
Proposition
You should pursue contentment.
Philippians 4 is imbued with the theme of contentment, irrespective of circumstances. In verses 11-13, Paul explicitly says, "I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me." The underpinning of this contentment is not a stoic resignation to fate, but a robust trust in Christ who empowers the believer. Paul's contentment isn't about passive acceptance but an active reliance on Christ's sufficiency. It's about the deep-seated conviction that Christ is enough, no matter what life brings our way. In a world rife with desires and dissatisfaction, Paul's message stands out as a beacon, urging believers to find their satisfaction, not in transient circumstances, but in the eternal, unchanging Christ.
Illustrations
Joseph in the Pit and Palace (Genesis 37; 39-41): Joseph, sold into slavery by his own brothers, found himself in Potipar's house and later in prison due to false accusations. Yet, throughout his tumultuous journey, Joseph remained steadfast in his faith. When he finally rose to power in Egypt, he recognized God's sovereign hand at work, saying to his brothers, "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good" (Genesis 50:20). Despite his roller-coaster life, Joseph's contentment rested not on his circumstances but on God's unchanging character.
David's Lament and Trust (Psalms): David, though anointed as the next king of Israel, spent years on the run from King Saul. He faced extreme highs and lows – from being celebrated as a hero to hiding in caves. Yet, in the Psalms, we see David pouring out his heart to God. Even in dire circumstances, David often concludes with an affirmation of trust in God's goodness (e.g., Psalm 23: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want"). David's songs resonate with the theme that true contentment is found in the presence of God.
Habakkuk’s Joy in Suffering (Habakkuk 3:17-19): The prophet Habakkuk lived in a time of impending doom for Judah. He begins his book questioning God's seeming inactivity. But by the end, his perspective shifts dramatically. Even if there's no fruit, no harvest, and no meat, Habakkuk declares, "Yet I will rejoice in the LORD; I will take joy in the God of my salvation." His contentment didn't rely on external prosperity but on God's unchanging nature.
Each of these individuals, in varied contexts and circumstances, illustrates the essence of Philippians 4. Contentment isn't about what we have or where we are; it's about whose we are. It's about anchoring our joy, peace, and satisfaction in God, allowing His presence and promises to be the stabilizing force in our ever-changing world.
Reasons You should pursue contentment
Because God's peace guards you (4:7): When you present your anxieties to God in prayer, the peace of God, which transcends human comprehension, will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus. The word "guard" is from the Greek "phroureo" (φρουρέω), often depicting a military term meaning to protect by holding a fortress. This same word is used in 2 Corinthians 11:32, where King Aretas put a "guard" (phroureo) to capture Paul. Just as a fortress safeguards a city, God's peace stands sentinel over our hearts, defending us from the turmoil of life.
Because God strengthens you (4:13): Paul's declaration, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me," is a powerful reason to pursue contentment. The word "strengthens" comes from the Greek "endynamoo" (ἐνδυναμόω), which means to be empowered or enabled. It's seen in Ephesians 6:10 where believers are exhorted to "be strong in the Lord." The idea is not that we can do anything we fancy, but that we are empowered to endure and thrive in any circumstance through Christ.
Because God supplies your needs (4:19): Paul assures the Philippians that "my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." The term "supply" is from the Greek "pleroo" (πληρόω), meaning to fill up or complete. This word appears in Matthew 5:17 where Jesus said He came to "fulfill" the Law. God doesn't just give minimally or sparingly; He fills, completes, and satisfies.
Illustrative Life: King Solomon. Arguably the richest and wisest king, Solomon had every luxury imaginable. Yet, in the book of Ecclesiastes, he refers to all these worldly pursuits as "vanity." Despite his unparalleled wealth and wisdom, it was clear that true contentment wasn't found in possessions or status but in a relationship with God. Solomon's life underscores the truth of Philippians 4:19 – even if we have everything the world offers, our true needs are only met in God.
God’s provision, strength, and peace are foundational reasons why every believer can, and should, pursue a life of contentment. It's not about passive resignation to life's ups and downs but a profound trust in God's unwavering character and promises.
Ways You should pursue contentment
By rejoicing always (4:4): "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice." The term "rejoice" is derived from the Greek "chairo" (χαίρω), often implying to be glad or to delight in. This same word is used in Luke 10:20, where Jesus instructs his disciples to "rejoice" that their names are written in heaven. Thus, the emphasis is on joy rooted in the eternal and divine, not in transient circumstances.
By showing gentleness (4:5): "Let your reasonableness be known to everyone." The term "reasonableness" can also be translated as gentleness or moderation, coming from the Greek word "epieikes" (ἐπιεικής). This term appears in Titus 3:2, instructing believers to be "gentle, showing perfect courtesy toward all people." Demonstrating Christ-like gentleness and patience is a way to manifest contentment, as it reflects a trust in God's sovereignty over situations.
By praying with thanksgiving (4:6): "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." The Greek term for "prayer" here is "proseuche" (προσευχή), pointing to the act of expressing one's desires and needs to God. An example of this word is in Acts 12:5, where the church was earnestly "praying" for Peter's release.
By thinking on what's commendable (4:8): "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." The act of fixing our minds on what is godly and virtuous, as opposed to what is negative or worldly, fosters contentment. The term "think" comes from the Greek "logizomai" (λογίζομαι), which means to reckon or consider. This word is used in Romans 6:11, urging believers to "consider" themselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ.
Illustrative Life: Apostle Paul. From the highs of spreading the Gospel across regions to the lows of imprisonment and beatings, Paul exemplified contentment. Whether it was singing praises in a prison cell at midnight (Acts 16:25) or writing letters of encouragement while under house arrest, Paul's life showcased that contentment was not about external situations but an internal perspective anchored in Christ.
In pursuing contentment, one's focus isn't on changing their circumstances but on transforming their perspective. It's about seeing life through the lens of God's sovereignty, grace, and eternal promises, and adjusting one's attitudes and actions accordingly.
Pointing to Christ
Philippians 4, like much of the New Testament, consistently points readers back to the centrality of Christ. Each exhortation, command, or assurance is deeply rooted in the person and work of Jesus. Let's explore how the New Testament illuminates the ways Christ fulfills the themes and doctrines found in this chapter.
Christ as the Source of Joy (4:4): "Rejoice in the Lord always." This call to continuous rejoicing is rooted in our relationship with Christ. Jesus is the fountain of true joy. As He promised in John 15:11, "These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full." Our joy isn't based on fleeting feelings but on the finished work of Christ.
Christ as our Peace (4:7): The "peace of God" which surpasses understanding guards our hearts in Christ. Ephesians 2:14 reminds us that Jesus "himself is our peace," reconciling us to God and breaking down barriers of hostility.
Christ as our Strength (4:13): Paul's declaration, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me," draws attention to Christ as the source of empowerment. This aligns with Christ's own words in John 15:5, where He says, "Apart from me you can do nothing."
Christ as the True and Honorable (4:8): Paul encourages believers to meditate on what's true, honorable, just, and pure. Jesus, being "the way, and the truth, and the life" (John 14:6), embodies all these virtues. He is the ultimate standard against which all truth and virtue are measured.
Christ as the Supplier of our Needs (4:19): Paul assures the Philippians that God will meet all their needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus. In John 6:35, Jesus declares, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst."
By consistently anchoring the teachings of Philippians 4 in the person and work of Christ, the New Testament showcases Jesus as the foundation and fulfillment of every spiritual need, promise, and exhortation. Our joy, peace, strength, and provision are not mere abstract concepts but are intricately tied to the redemptive work of Christ on our behalf.
Gospel Invitation
Within the beautifully woven fabric of Philippians 4 lies a vibrant, resounding truth: contentment is found in Christ alone. As you journey through the challenges and triumphs of life, consider the steadfast love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He, who was in the form of God, humbled Himself to take on human flesh and, in His immeasurable love, bore the weight of our sins on the cross. This was not a mere act of charity but the profound depths of God's love to rescue a lost and broken humanity.
Through faith in Jesus' death and resurrection, we are justified – declared right before God. This profound act of grace not only delivers us from the penalty of eternal damnation but also offers us sanctification, daily delivering us from the power of sin. As Philippians 4 highlights the peace of God and the strength found in Christ, it beckons each one of us to embrace this peace and strength for ourselves by surrendering to Jesus. This surrender involves recognizing our inability to save ourselves and trusting fully in Jesus' completed work on the cross.
Lastly, as we lean into Christ daily, we have a hope of future glorification, where we will be free from the very presence of sin, basking eternally in the splendor of our Savior.
If the strains of life weigh heavy on your heart, if the storms seem relentless, remember that in Christ, true contentment can be found. He invites you today to cast all your anxieties on Him, for He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7). Embrace the all-sufficient Christ, find contentment in His love, and let His peace guard your heart in every season.
Bibliography
ChatGPT by OpenAI. "Philippians 4 Exposition and Analysis." OpenAI, 2023.