Philippians 4, Joy & Contentment

Paul has emphasized his citizenship in Christ and his eagerness to see the Messiah, once his imprisonment is completed.

4 Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, [a]whom I long to see, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved.

2 I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to [b]live in harmony in the Lord. 3 Indeed, true [c]companion, I ask you also, help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement as well as the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! 5 Let your gentle spirit be known to all people. The Lord is [d]near. 6 Do not [e]be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all [f]comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is [g]lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 As for the things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

God’s Provisions

10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked an opportunity to act. 11 Not that I speak [h]from need, for I have learned to be [i]content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know how to get along with little, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. 13 I can do all things [j]through Him who strengthens me. 14 Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my difficulty.

15 You yourselves also know, Philippians, that at the [k]first preaching of the gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone; 16 for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs. 17 Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek the [l]profit which increases to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am [m]amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus [n]what you have sent, [o]a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply [p]all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be the glory [q]forever and ever. Amen.

21 Greet every [r]saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. 22 All the [s]saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.

23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Philippians 4: 1, Stand firm
Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends!

Paul's appeal is emotional, one of love and concern.  As one tired and in chains, Paul certainly understands what "stand firm!" means.

Philippians 4: 2-3, Fellowship in humility

I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

It is not clear in verse 3, where Paul uses the word "Syzygus", if he means a "yokefellow" ("close companion") or if this is the proper name of a particular individual.  (Similarly, in the US, sometimes Buddy is a proper name.)

Paul is specifically urging certain individuals in the church to put their disputes to rest.  That Paul mentions these two feuding women is a reminder that this is a personal letter, not intending to be worshiped as "Scripture."

(From Envision Truth 499 comes this drawing of Philippians 4:2)

(From Envision Truth 499 comes this drawing of Philippians 4:3)

Philippians 4: 4-7, Rejoice and be at peace!

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Paul repeats his message about "Joy" or "Rejoicing".  Others have pointed out that the peace of God, described here, is a result of presenting one's requests to God.

Philippians 4: 8-9, Concentrate on things that are true and right

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me--put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

How we think, how we speak, what "voices" we listen to -- these are important decisions for good spiritual health and good mental health.

Philippians 4: 9-13, I am content

I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.

I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Paul can be content in everything, whether poverty and need, or even with a full stomach, because he relies on the Messiah for his mission, goals, needs.  (I suspect some of this wisdom also comes from experience and age.)

Philippians 4: 14-18, Thank-you!

Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need.  Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.

Paul appreciates the giving nature of the church in Philippi.  They repeatedly reached out to support him during his travels in Greece.  Not only were their gifts helpful, but they were spiritual acts, sacrifices rising up as if incense to God.

Philippians 4: 19-20, Coda

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Just as God as met Paul's needs, he anticipates that the Philippians will also be supported and strengthened.

Philippians 4: 21-23, Fellowship in humility

Greet all the saints in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send greetings.  All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar's household.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

Some manuscripts do not have "Amen" at the end of this letter; it is possible that is an addition by a scribe.

Long before the Roman empire took notice of Christianity, there were believers in Caesar's household!

Tomorrow we move on to Paul's letter to the Colossians.

(This version of the Bible used in this blog post is the NASB. This post will eventually appear in my New Testament blog on 6/16 2025. At this time I am focusing my attention on working through the Old Testament at oldtestamentchapters.blogspot.com.)

Philippians 3, Joy in Knowing the Messiah!

Paul has been describing the ideal Christian community, emphasizing humility and giving Jesus as an example. He then digressed to express appreciation for Timothy and Epaphroditus.

Philippians 3: 1, Rejoice! (Keep Joy in mind!)

Finally, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things again is no trouble for me, and it is a safeguard for you.

Why is writing "Rejoice!" a safeguard for the Philippians?  A Christian, excited about their joy in Christ, often makes resolutions or commitments that become burdensome. Monitoring one's joy provides a safeguard against this legalism.

I realized this, long ago, while memorizing the book of Philippians.  After memorizing the first two chapters (60 verses) I was no longer enjoying my walk with God and memorization had become a daily burden. While meditating on the verse above, it hit me that Bible memorization had become a legalistic spiritual discipline.  So I quit!

It was right to do so.

Humans look at the routines and disciplines of others and say, "How spiritual!"  Often they should ask, instead, "Is it spiritual?  Or is it just legalistic?"  If your routine is legalistic, stop.  (No, you do not need to "do devotions" every day!  Enjoy the Messiah instead!)

I note with a bit of irony that the last few days have overwhelmed me and I have not gotten to post my "chapter-a-day" blog.  So I am two days behind, once again thrown off by Philippians 3:1!

Philippians 3: 2-7, A legalistic Jew speaks out

Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the [a]false circumcision; 3 for we are the true [b]circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and take pride in Christ Jesus, and put no confidence in the flesh, 4 although I myself could boast as having confidence even in the flesh. If anyone else thinks he is confident in the flesh, I have more reason: 5 circumcised the eighth day, of the nation of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the Law, a Pharisee; 6 as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to the righteousness which is in the Law, found blameless.

7 But whatever things were gain to me, these things I have counted as loss because of Christ. 

(From Envision Truth 499 comes this drawing of Philippians 3:2)

Paul continually confronts legalism.  He calls the legalistic Judaizers, "dogs", emphasizing his anger. Paul makes it clear that if anyone knows spiritual legalism, it is he. As one who has given up an addiction, Paul stresses the pain his past had caused and is enthusiastic about his new life of joy (not legalism) in the Messiah.

Philippians 3: 8-12, Instead I pursue Messiah

8 More than that, I count all things to be loss [c]in view of the surpassing value of [d]knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, [e]for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them mere rubbish, so that I may gain Christ, 9 and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, 10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and [f]the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; 11 if somehow I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.

12 Not that I have already [g]grasped it all or have already become perfect, but I press on if I may also take hold of that [h]for which I was even taken hold of by Christ Jesus.

Here is a ringing claim to mission! Paul's goal in life is simple, to know the Messiah, this God-man who rose from the dead.

Philippians 3: 13-19, Fellowship in humility

Brothers and sisters, I do not regard myself as having taken hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 

Therefore, all who are mature, let’s have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that to you as well; however, let’s keep living by that same standard to which we have attained.

17 Brothers and sisters, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. 18 For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even as I weep, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ, 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their [k]appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who have their minds on earthly things. 

My mind is often set on earthly things... which is why I'm trying to read the New Testament.

Paul expresses his goals and then sadly admits that many refuse to accept the Messiah for Who he is.

(From Envision Truth 499 comes this drawing of Philippians 3: 13-14)

Philippians 3: 20-21, Fellowship in humility

For our [l]citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; 21 who will transform the body of our lowly condition into conformity with [m]His glorious body, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself.

Paul is increasing aware of the attraction of Heaven, given his imprisonment.

Wherever the NIV writes "Christ" Paul is using a word which roughly translates as "Chosen One" or "Anointed One" and stands for the Jewish Messiah.  Firmly Jewish, Paul is insistent on bringing to the lowly Gentiles the news of the "Chosen One" of Israel.  And I am glad he did.

For further thought: Can you measure your joy? How does joy keep up safe from legalism?

Next time: Paul will have some final thoughts for this church in the next chapter, making one last appeal for stability and unity.

(This version of the Bible used in this blog post is the NASB. This post will eventually appear in my New Testament blog on 6/18/2025. At this time I am focusing my attention on working through the Old Testament at oldtestamentchapters.blogspot.com.)

Philippians 2, Joyous Community

Paul addresses Christian community, living together in Christ's love.

Philippians 2: 1-4, Fellowship in humility

Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. 

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. 

Part of following Christ is working within His community, in care and humility.

Philippians 2: 5-11, Jesus, divine model of humility

Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, as He already existed in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself by taking the form of a bond-servant and being born in the likeness of men.

And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death: death on a cross. For this reason also God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Jesus is set forward as the very example of humility since, being in nature (or "form") of God, he stepped down to become human, but not just a human, but one who allowed himself to be killed on the cross!  If God can step down like that, we too are to be willing to give up our egos for others.

Once Paul has started in this direction, he goes on to praise the Messiah, stating that the humility of Jesus has resulted in him taking up a final position far above all others.

Philippians 2: 12-13, Continued growth, "trembling"
So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to desire and to work for His good pleasure.

We are to trust in God's divine plan, yet at the same time, view our life with seriousness and care. Here, as earlier, "salvation" need not be the modern American concept of "eternal salvation" but simply represents the process in which the believer develops freedom from the broken world around and within him/her.

Philippians 2: 14-18, Fellowship in humility
Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--

in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.

So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

Do all things without complaining or arguments; so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding firmly the word of life, so that on the day of Christ I can take pride because I did not run in vain nor labor in vain. 

But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all. 

You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.

A sincere Christian community should be obvious in its love and care for others, "shining like stars" among the ordinary selfishness of the rest of the world.

(From Envision Truth 499 comes this drawing of Philippians 2: 14-15...)

(... and this drawing of Philippians 2: 17)

Philippians 2: 19-23, Timothy, a sincere friend

But I hope, in the Lord Jesus, to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I also may be encouraged when I learn of your condition. For I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare. For they all seek after their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus. 

But you know of his proven character, that he served with me in the furtherance of the gospel like a child serving his father. Therefore I hope to send him immediately, as soon as I see how things go with me;

Timothy, longtime traveler with Paul, has been a strong support for Paul in prison.

Philippians 2: 24-30, Our dear friend, Epaphroditus

and I trust in the Lord that I myself will also be coming shortly. But I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need, because he was longing for you all and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. For indeed he was sick to the point of death, but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I have sent him all the more eagerly, so that when you see him again you may rejoice and I may be less concerned about you. 

Receive him then in the Lord with all joy, and hold people like him in high regard, because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life to compensate for your absence in your service to me.

Another supporter has been Epaphroditus, apparently sent by the Philippians to minister to Paul.

Paul returns to the theme of Joy in the next chapter.

(This version of the Bible used in this blog post is the NASB. This post will eventually appear in my New Testament blog on 6/17/2025. At this time I am focusing my attention on working through the Old Testament at oldtestamentchapters.blogspot.com.)

Philippians 1, Joyous Imprisonment

Paul's letter to Philippians is one of my favorites.  Long ago, in college, with my good friend, Ed, I attempted to memorize the letter.

Philippians 1: 1-2, Greeting

Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

This is a classic first century greeting, naming the letter writers and the recipients of the letter. Here the letter writers add an identification as bond-servants of the Messiah, echoing the Old Testament ebed YHWH, terms given to Moses and the prophets. (See Isaiah 40-55.) The basic well-wishes that might begin any letter here emphasize the work of God and Jesus.

"Overseers" here might be translated as "bishop" or (today) "elder".  Paul addresses all the Christians in Philippi as "saints".

Philippians 1: 3-6, Praying with joy

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all, in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now. For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus. 

This book will have an emphasis on Joy.  Here Paul expresses confidence that those in Philippi who have begun to walk with the Savior-Messiah will continue to steadily grow until the Messiah's kingdom comes in full force.

(From Envision Truth 499 comes this drawing of Philippians 1:6)

Philippians 1: 7, Regardless of chains

For it is only right for me to feel this way about you all, because I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers of grace with me.

This letter is another "prison epistle", written when Paul was presumably in prison in Rome, as recorded at the end of Acts. Paul's confidence in the Christ-followers in Philippi is based on a longterm relationship, these people are "partakers" with him.

Philippians 1: 8-11, Grow loving, knowledge, righteousness

For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. And this I pray, that your love may overflow still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may discover the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and blameless for the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, for the glory and praise of God.

Love is important -- but it grows with knowledge and insight. Paul's prayer is for a maturity in the Philippian believers, becoming "sincere" and "blameless", looking towards a future "day of Christ". All of this is to result in God's praise and glory.

Philippians 1: 12-14, Greeting

Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the praetorian guard and to everyone else, and that most of the brothers and sisters, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.

Paul's imprisonment seems to be constructive, strengthening the Christians in Rome.  Indeed, the gospel is working within the emperor's palace or palace guard.

(Philippians 1:13)

Philippians 1: 15-18a, Different motivations

Some, to be sure, are preaching Christ even from envy and strife, but some also from goodwill; the latter do it out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel; the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives, thinking that they are causing me distress in my imprisonment. 

What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in this I rejoice

Paul is aware that some seem to be preaching Christ for their own personal gain.  (If only he could see things now!) Regardless, he is unperturbed.

Philippians 1: 18b-19, But I will rejoice

But not only that, I also will rejoice, for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 

According to the NASB footnotes, the word translated "deliverance" in verse 19 could also be translated "salvation".  When the New Testament speaks of "salvation" it often does not mean "eternal salvation" as a American Christian might use the term.

Once, long ago, Jan and I visited a fundamentalistic church in rural Illinois.  The greeting the churchgoers gave everyone as they approached the building was "Are you saved?"  When we were asked that, I was tempted to ask, "Saved from what?" -- but knowing the context, Jan and I simply said, "Yes" and walked in. But the interpretation of "salvation" requires context.

Philippians 1: 20-26, Given over to Christ, regardless...

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sakes. 

Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, so that your pride in Christ Jesus may be abundant because of me by my coming to you again.

We read here a beautiful, now classic passage, predating Hamlet's soliloquy. Paul, in prison and having narrowly escaped death numerous times, is content if Death comes and he gets to "move on up" and be with Christ. But then, again, if he is granted life, remaining "in the body", he will also use that for Christ's kingdom.

Philippians 1: 27-28, Standing firm, in one spirit

Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in no way alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and this too, from God. 

Paul encourages the Philippians to "stand firm" in their faith, indeed grow in their faith, not alarmed by persecutors.

Philippians 1: 29-30, Request granted

For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer on His behalf, experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

Verse 29 should be allowed to sink in -- Paul's tells the Philippians that they have been "granted" the opportunity for suffering, almost as if they had requested it!  "I just want you to know that your request has been approved! You will be allowed to suffer for Jesus!"  I don't think this is a request that I have made!  :-)

Tomorrow we will go on to look at the gift of Joy (a favorite theme of C. S. Lewis.)

(This version of the Bible used in this blog post is the NASB. This post will eventually appear in my New Testament blog on 6/16 2025. At this time I am focusing my attention on working through the Old Testament at oldtestamentchapters.blogspot.com.)

Paul's Letter to Philippi

One of my favorite New Testament books is Paul's Epistle (letter) to the Philippians.  In early college, I attempted to memorize it with good friend, Ed Mason -- I recall getting into chapter 3 before I quit. (I quit memorizing the passage after meditating on Philippians 3:1, realizing that memorization had become a legalistic regime for me, sucking joy out of my Christian walk!)

The Greek community of Philippi was the first place Paul visited after leaving Asia Minor (modern Turkey) for the west.

Paul first visited Philippi when, while in Asia Minor, he has a vision in which someone from that region appears and begs for Paul to come help them (Acts 16:9-10.)   His visit to that city is described in the remainder of Acts 16.  Paul and Silas are well received there (a special convert is a woman named Lydia) but eventually a healing of a woman fortune-teller leads to uproar and Paul and Silas are imprisoned.  Even that turn of events is good, for God intervenes and the jailer and his family become believers. Paul returns to the region in Acts 20:1-6.

The book has some strong theological statements, both on living in Christian community and also on the nature of Christ.  In the second chapter Paul gives a hymn of praise about Jesus, expressing both the deity of Christ and Christ's human nature.  It has an underlying theme of joy within suffering.

We will finish Philippians early this next week and then [in 2025] move on to the book of Colossians.

Resources

I am using a number of resources for my study in Philippians.

• The Tyndale New Testament commentaries has a commentary, The Epistle of Paul to the Philippians,  by Ralph P. Martin. I purchased my copy the day after my 21st birthday.  It has been my main source for this study.
• There is a nice summary at the Bible Project, including a a 9 minute video that I recommend.
• OverviewBible.com has a good summary of the letter here. 
• An online commentary by The Gospel Coalition is here.
• An online commentary by EasyEnglishBible (with comments and translation accessible to English language learners) is here. 

(The version of the Bible used in this blog post is the NASB. This post will eventually appear in my New Testament blog on 6/15/2025. At this time I am focusing my attention on working through the Old Testament at oldtestamentchapters.blogspot.com.)

Romans 12, A Caring Community

Paul has finished his theological treatise and now moves on to application.

Romans 12:1-2, So -- live sacrificial and transformed lives!
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will. 

A Bible sage once said, "When you see the word 'therefore' in the Scriptures, you should ask, 'What is it there for?' "  The first word of this chapter announces a new direction.  The previous porition of the letter sets out a systematic argument regarding Christ's work for Gentiles and Jews.  Now Paul turns to practical matters based on this new knowledge.

He begins by emphasizing that this practice does indeed require a "renewing of the mind", thinking in new ways, with a new understanding of the world.

Romans 12:3-5, How to be "sacrificial"

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 

There is a simple humility in realizing we are part of a community, the Church (or, in Jesus's terms, "the Kingdom of God".)

Romans 12: 6-8, On spiritual gifts

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. 

We each should offer our abilities and talents for the good of this "kingdom".

Romans 12: 9-12, Sincere love

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.  Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 

Paul gives a quick flurry of proverbial instructions.

Romans 12: 13-15, Hospitality and grace

Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 

Verse 15 is good advice. The best answer to the grief of a friend is to simply weep with them. Laugh with those who are happy, weep with those who weep.  Be part of their community and their emotions.

Romans 12:16, Harmony and humility

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.  Do not be conceited.  

Another translation of "willing to associate with people of low position" is "be willing to do menial work."  Part of living in harmony as that we stoop to do what needs to be done and don't try to rely on privilege.

Romans 12:17-19, Peace

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. 

"Live at peace with everyone" has an important caveat, "as far as it depends on you," which admits that not everyone wants to live in peace!

When dealing with bitterness, strive to let go of it, as it only harms the one who is bitter.  Turn bitterness over to God and if "vengeance" is necessary, don't let it come from you.

The quote in verse 19 is from Deuteronomy 32:35.

Romans 12:20-21, Overcome evil with good

On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." 

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

I find the Old Testament quote (from Proverbs 25:21-22) rather strange and unusual. The "burning coals" phrase is surely negative, as if doing good to your enemies will discomfort and embarrass them.  But isn't that contradictory to verse 10, where "love must be sincere"?

A colleague was discussing her recognition that many hymns carry a deeply spiritual, inspired message, reflecting the Scriptures.  As an example, she sent me the following hymn which, I think, reflects the emphasis in this chapter on spiritual gifts.

(I don't know is this is readable in the blog, but the hymn begins, "With gifts that differ by your grace your Spirit fits us all, that Christians in each time and place may answer when you call...."  It continues to elaborate on the use of various gifts.  I thank colleague Linda Zientek for this example!)

Acts 28, Paul in Rome

Paul and his companions have just survived a Mediterranean storm and shipwreck.

Acts 28:21-6

Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta. The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand. When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, "This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to  live." But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead,  but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god.

Luke describes a battered and weary company, in the cold rain, seeking to start a fire. They are aided by an apparently miraculous event, a snake latching onto Paul's hand yet he is not harmed.  This convinces the locals that he is a god and (presumably) that the company (of 276) needs to be supported.

Acts 28: 7-10
There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days entertained us hospitably. His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. They honored us in many ways and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed.

Publius, the local governor, is rewarded for his kindness by the healing of his father, and after that, numerous others.

Acts 28: 11-14
After three months we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island. It was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux. We put in at Syracuse and stayed there three days. From there we set sail and arrived at Rhegium. The next day the south wind came up, and on the following day we reached Puteoli. There we found some brothers who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome.

Castor and Pollus are the twin stars in the constellation Gemini.  They were also the patron gods of sailors.  

"And so we came to Rome."  Paul has been aware for a long time, possibly five years, that God intended him to speak before Caesar.

Acts 28: 15-20
The brothers there had heard that we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these men Paul thanked God and was encouraged. When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.

Three days later he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. They examined me and wanted to release me, because I was not guilty of any crime deserving death. But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar--not that I had any charge to bring against my own  people. For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you.  It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain."

In verse 15, Luke uncharacteristically records that "Paul ... was encouraged" as if Paul had been struggling previously.  It is likely that at the beginning of this chapter, Paul is worn out and quite discouraged.  He has been in chains for some time and his missionary trips have been halted by the Jews and Romans.  He is in a strange and new country.  But even here he discovers that there are followers of Jesus and that these "brothers" are eager to see him!

Acts 28: 21-23

They replied, "We have not received any letters from Judea concerning you, and none of the brothers who have come from there has reported or said anything bad about you. But we want to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect."

They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets.

The leaders in Jerusalem have apparently not forwarded their complaints about Paul and so the Jewish congregations in Rome are unaware of his "blasphemy".  Like Jesus, Paul speaks of the kingdom of God as a current (not just future) kingdom.

Acts 28: 24-28

Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet: `Go to this people and say, "You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving." For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly  hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes.  Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' 

"Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!"

The quote in verse 27 is from Isaiah 6:9-10.  Paul continues to remind his Jewish family that the (unclean) Gentiles are responding!

From the NIV footnotes: some manuscripts add at the end of verse 29 the sentence "After he said this, the Jews left, arguing vigorously among themselves."

Acts 28: 30-31

For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. 

The book ends suddenly, upbeat but without a conclusion.  Why?  The book of Acts is about as long as the book of Luke; both were apparently the length one might write if carefully filling out a papyrus scroll.  So it is likely that Luke has run out of room to write.  Is it also possible that Luke has run out of time, having caught the account up to date?  The last verse gives a hint of confident direction; Paul has arrived at Rome and continues to preach.  Just as other rulers have heard of the Jewish Messiah, we can assume that Caesar will also!  Although there is no record of that testimony Paul's letters (to the Philippians, see 4:22) gives greetings from disciples even in Caesar's household.  Caesar (Emperor Nero) may not be receptive to the Messiah but there are followers of the Jewish carpenter living around him.