Exhortations – Philippians 4:1–9

Paul calls the Philippians beloved brothers whom he longs for. Even at the beginning of the letter, Paul said that he holds them in his heart and misses them so much that he wishes he could meet them.

Paul begins the exhortations with what is essential: to stand firm in the Lord. Especially the beginning of chapter two and Paul's personal example bring out the foundation for this unwavering fellowship with Christ. At the beginning of the second chapter, Paul described the encouragement and love of Christ and the fellowship of the Spirit as the foundation. In Paul’s personal example, participation in Christ's resurrection and sufferings create the foundation for this unshakable fellowship in which we grow following the example given by Christ.

In the fellowship of the Lord, Euodia and Syntyche should serve the Lord in unity. There has been some conflict between these women and therefore Paul mentions them separately. Unity between them would exemplify living steadfastly in a way that agrees with Christ's work and example. Just like others who work for the gospel, these women should receive help and support in their work. All of this is part of following the Lord's example in working together with one accord. The same applies to rejoicing in the Lord and practicing gentleness.

To stand strong, the Christians need God's help and support, which means Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit living in them (Philippians 2:1–2). We can make all our concerns known to God. He sees to it that even during difficulties we remain in Jesus Christ. This is how the whole Trinity of God supports the Christian's life.

This exhortation ends with two verses in which, with a few words, the Philippians are encouraged to live a pure and good Christian life. Paul brings up his own life as an example of a pure and good life. In line with the themes of the letter, this exemplariness means trying to live ever more deeply in Christ and to follow Christ's example. Paul lived as he taught. It could also be noticed in situations where the Philippians could see Paul.

Support given by the Philippians – Philippians 4:10–20

The Philippians helped Paul right after the church had been born at Philippi. While in the nearby city of Thessalonica, Paul was in prison, like he was at the time when this letter was written. Like this time, perhaps some of the gifts given by the Philippians to Paul were also at that time sent to the prison. Significantly, the church at Philippi was the only one that did this. Later, other churches participated too – when Paul was collecting funds for the Jerusalem church (2 Corinthians 8:1–2 and 9:1–2).

Now the Philippian congregation gave another gift. Epaphroditus, already mentioned in the second chapter, delivered the gift, and took care of Paul on behalf of the Philippians. The first time, a gift could have been delivered several times even in a short time, because the distance was not overwhelmingly long – only 160 kilometres. Today, that journey seems rather short, but at that time it would have taken several days on foot. How the gift was delivered then remains a mystery. This time, it would have taken a lot of time to deliver the gift even travelling by horse, because the journey was at least 800 kilometres, if not even 2000 kilometres, if Paul was in Rome. In any case, the first gift and the gift that was given now reflected the great enthusiasm and love of the church members.

Paul had faced many adversities in his life. This can be seen in the description of his varying conditions. Paul's statement: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," describes how Jesus has helped Paul to live amidst adversity. The phrase is often used out of context i.e. without the surrounding text. Without its context, the sentence can take on unexpected proportions. These may include various miracles or earthly success. When you read the sentence in its context, it becomes clear that it is not what Paul meant. The Lord strengthened Paul to endure difficulties.

Because the Lord strengthens us to endure difficulties, it is not necessary for Paul to receive support. However, he thanks the Lord for the gift of the Philippians – now the Lord has seen fit that Paul has no lack. Also, Paul rejoices that the Philippians have given their gift. He especially rejoices that in this way, the Philippians show great love that can grow in their lives. This increasing love is what Paul has been hoping for since the beginning of the letter. With their gift, they bear fruit that is being produced by Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:11 and 4:17). They are faithful to the Lord Jesus and to his example. In this way, they think not only of themselves but also of the best and interests of others (Philippians 2:3–4). Paul does not necessarily have to be the target for the Philippians’ help – there are others among the Philippians who need similar help. Partly for this reason Paul says that he does not seek this gift from the Philippians. What is most important is that the work of the gospel is being advanced – one's own work is not the most important thing. On the other hand, Paul strives not to be branded as a preacher who seeks riches through his ministry. There were and still are such preachers.

Paul wants to send Epaphroditus back to Philippi. With the letter, Epaphroditus has proof that Paul has received the donation. This shows that even in the early church there was good practice concerning the reporting of cash flows. Mutual trust requires clarity that cash flows are being used properly, and mutual trust is important to maintaining unity. Donors find it easy to keep donating when they know where the money is going.

Giving a gift increases love in the giver's heart. At the same time, God takes care of the giver in one way or another. It can be that the giver receives a special blessing or, like Paul, is able to live in scarcity. A return gift from God can also be that Christian brothers and sisters will care for each other mutually – each will receive help from the other when facing difficulties (2 Corinthians 8:14–15). In any case, God will eventually give you a reward in glory i.e. in eternal life.

Final greetings Philippians 4:21–23

Most often there is Paul’s handwritten text at the end of his letters, by which he could be identified. This time there is no need to convince the Philippians that Paul himself is the author of the letter because the letter is delivered by Epaphroditus, whom they know. Perhaps that is why Paul's handwriting was left out from the end of the letter.

Greetings are given by all Christians who were with or near Paul when he wrote the letter. What is special is that – following the exact form of the letter – there are people from the Caesar’s household among those who send greetings. It can mean anyone who lives or works in the Caesar’s house. At the beginning of the letter, Paul already wrote about this wonderful success (Philippians 1:12–14). Something big is happening. The fruit and influence of Paul's work will be seen in full scale only when the empire no longer persecutes Christians, and the Roman Empire becomes a Christian empire.