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Philippians 4 Commentary
by Brad Boyles
As I introduced in my commentary on Philippians 1, we read in Chapter 4 that this church was the only one to form a contractual friendship with Paul. There was an active relationship of giving and receiving in the name of Christ. But Paul did not want the thankfulness of his statement to seem like a call for more material things. So, he clarifies his statement by referring back to what has always been his true passion for the church. In fact, from the first chapter, we see his main goal.
Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to you again.
Philippians 1:25-26 NASB
He was not simply concerned with the gifts they gave him, but for their increase in faith. As F.F. Bruce writes,
“Paul’s interest is not in their “reward” as such, but in their gift as evidence that their relationship with Christ is in good order and is continuing to grow. He does not thereby negate the gift; indeed, he finally speaks directly to that in the next sentence. But here is the certain evidence that his ultimate concern is for them—far more than for his own material needs. Their gift, which serves his “physical health,” serves more significantly as evidence of their “spiritual health.””
That last sentence is an interesting statement. Our serving in the physical provides evidence of the spiritual. Of course, there are exceptions. Some serve out of selfish ambition or to receive credit for their work. However, Paul had a relationship with the Philippians. Again, he was in a mutual partnership of giving and receiving. So, with this foundation in place, he knew that there was a direct connection between their choice to serve him and the spiritual fruit in their lives.
We must ask ourselves, is there fruit? Do we merely talk about our Christian faith, or are we showing evidence of our love for Jesus through our actions? Jesus is definitely more concerned about who we are in Him than anything we will ever do for Him. However, it could very easily be said that both of these go hand-in-hand. Who we are in Him will naturally produce good works that please Him.