Impressions from Philippians 4:2-9

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. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
    
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. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (ESV)

Lesson Focus: Live like you know who you are!

1. God’s Presence (2-5)

women, who have labored side by side with me – Most of the time the teaching of this passage focuses on the fact that these two women were arguing.  Paul had been writing about unity for 3 chapters now. However, don’t overlook the careful way Paul framed his appeal to his true companion. He wanted this person to know these women were of great value to him. Doing anything, side by side, with women was not a common practice. Origins is very blessed with godly women who have been called to present the Gospel, and an environment in which to do so freely.

reasonableness - ἐπιεικής, epieikēs, ep-ee-i-kace': appropriate, that is, (by implication) mild: - gentle, moderation, patient.

Why would Paul highlight moderation, and patience?

do not be anxious about anything – Worry indicates a lack of trust in God’s wisdom, sovereignty and power.

2. God’s Peace (6-9)

A. Desirable Prayer (6-7)
by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving – these actions are only available to a true believer.

let your requests be made known to God. – Is it even possible to surprise God with your need? This is where you begin to understand that you are in a relationship with the Father. You are a child of the Living God. Live like you know who you are!  Worry and fear do not reflect who you are. His peace will guard heart and your mind.

B. Desirable Thinking (8)
whatever is . . . – Almost every destructive emotional trial can be traced back to actions or self-talk that is based on untrue beliefs.

C. Desirable Living (9)
learned and received and heard and seen – Paul is saying “Live like you know who you are!”

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7)

Impression: Paul’s awareness of the security in the presence of Christ allowed him to serve without being anxious about anything.

(Outline heavily influenced by Warren Weirsbe)