_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ Philippians 4:1. BRETHREN BELOVED AND LONGED FOR, … BELOVED.—By these caressing titles, which, however, are not words of flattery but of sincere love, he works his way into their hearts. The “beloved” repeated at the close of the verse is like the clinging embrace o... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ Philippians 4:3. AND I ENTREAT THEE ALSO, TRUE YOKEFELLOW.—It is doubtful whom the apostle addresses. On the whole, however, it seems most probable that Epaphroditus, the bearer of the epistle, is intended (so Lightfoot, following Hofmann). Meyer says: “Laying aside... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ Philippians 4:4. REJOICE IN THE LORD.—R.V. margin, “Farewell.” The word is neither “farewell” alone, nor “rejoice” alone (_Lightfoot_). That the A.V. and R.V. texts are justified in so translating seems clear from the “always” which follows. _MAIN HOMILETICS OF THE... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ Philippians 4:5. LET YOUR MODERATION BE KNOWN.—This moderation or forbearance is the very opposite of the spirit which will “cavil on the ninth part of a hair” in the way of asserting personal rights. _MAIN HOMILETICS OF THE PARAGRAPH.— Philippians 4:5_ Christian... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ Philippians 4:6. BE CAREFUL FOR NOTHING.—R.V. “in nothing be anxious.” The word suggests the idea of a poor distraught mind on which concerns have fastened themselves, which drag, one in one direction, another in the opposite. Well says Bengel, “Care and prayer are... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ Philippians 4:8. WHATSOEVER THINGS ARE TRUE.—The apostle recognises the ability of the renewed mind to discern truth under any guise. “Ye have an unction from the Holy One and know all things” (1 John 2:20). HONEST.—A.V. margin, “venerable.” R.V. text, “honourable.”... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ Philippians 4:10. HATH FLOURISHED AGAIN.—R.V. “ye have revived your thought for me.” The active generosity of the Philippians towards St. Paul had never died, any more than a tree does when it sheds its leaves and stands bare all through the winter. The winter of th... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ Philippians 4:15. NO CHURCH COMMUNICATED WITH ME.—The lofty independence of the apostle had not unbent to any other Church as to this. There are men from whom one could never receive a gift without sacrifice of self-respect. St. Paul was not the man to be patronised... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ Philippians 4:22. THE SAINTS … OF CÆSAR’S HOUSEHOLD.—This expression does not oblige us to think that any relatives of Cæsar had embraced Christianity. It comprises all who in any way were connected with the imperial service. Philippians 4:23. BE WITH YOU ALL.—The... [ Continue Reading ]