Philippians 4:4-7

Robert Jamieson; A. R. Fausset; David Brown

Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - Philippians 4:5

5. moderation—from a Greek root, "to yield," whence yieldingness [TRENCH]; or from a root, "it is fitting," whence "reasonableness of dealing" [ALFORD], that considerateness for others, not urging one's own rights to the uttermost, but waiving a part, and thereby rectifying the injustices of justice. The archetype of this grace is God, who presses not the strictness of His law against us as we deserve (Psalms 130:3; Psalms 130:4); though having exacted the fullest payment for us from our Divine... read more

Robert Jamieson; A. R. Fausset; David Brown

Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - Philippians 4:6

6. Translate, "Be anxious about nothing." Care and prayer are as mutually opposed as fire and water [BENGEL]. by prayer and supplication—Greek, "by the prayer and the supplication" appropriate to each case [ALFORD]. Prayer for blessings; and the general term. Supplication, to avert ills; a special term, suppliant entreaty (see on :-). thanksgiving—for every event, prosperity and affliction alike (1 Thessalonians 5:18; James 5:13). The Philippians might remember Paul's example at Philippi when... read more

Robert Jamieson; A. R. Fausset; David Brown

Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - Philippians 4:7

7. And—The inseparable consequence of thus laying everything before God in "prayer with thanksgiving." peace—the dispeller of "anxious care" (Philippians 4:6). of God—coming from God, and resting in God (John 14:27; John 16:33; Colossians 3:15). passeth—surpasseth, or exceedeth, all man's notional powers of understanding its full blessedness (1 Corinthians 2:9; 1 Corinthians 2:10; Ephesians 3:20; compare Proverbs 3:17). shall keep—rather, "shall guard"; shall keep as a well-garrisoned... read more

Thomas Constable

Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - Philippians 4:2-9

C. Specific duties 4:2-9This last section (Philippians 4:2-9) of the body of the epistle (Philippians 1:27 to Philippians 4:9) deals with the same two subjects as the preceding two sections, unity and steadfastness, but in more detail. Paul gave his readers specific instructions about what they should do. Unity needed restoring, and steadfastness needed encouraging. read more

Thomas Constable

Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - Philippians 4:4

Rejoicing in Christ is something the apostle had commanded earlier (Philippians 3:1) and had illustrated abundantly for his readers throughout this epistle. He must have felt that there was a great need for this attitude in Philippi. There were many reasons why the Philippian saints could have felt discouraged. Paul’s imprisonment and the possibility of his death, Epaphroditus’ illness, and the antagonism of unbelievers were a few. The attacks from legalists on the one hand and libertines on... read more

Thomas Constable

Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - Philippians 4:4-9

2. Maintaining tranquillity 4:4-9Paul gave his readers five other brief positive exhortations, all of which are vitally important for individual and corporate Christian living. They all result in the maintenance of peace in the body so the saints can work together effectively as partners in the gospel even in the midst of opposing unbelievers. read more

Thomas Constable

Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - Philippians 4:5

We should also demonstrate forbearance (Gr. epieikes) to everyone, saved and unsaved alike. The Greek word contains connotations of gentleness, yielding, kindness, patience, forbearance, leniency, and magnanimity. It recalls Jesus Christ’s humility in Philippians 2:5-11. The forbearing person does not insist on his or her own rights or privileges. He or she is considerate and gentle toward others. Of course, there is a time to stand for what is right. The forbearing person is not spineless but... read more

Thomas Constable

Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - Philippians 4:6

Earlier Paul commended Timothy for being anxious over the welfare of the Philippians (Philippians 2:20). Here he said we should not be anxious about anything. The same Greek word (a present imperative, merimnate) appears in both places. The resolution of this problem probably lies in viewing anxiety as concern that may become fretful and inappropriate if taken too far. Paul’s point here was that rather than becoming distraught over a particular situation we should take it to the Lord in prayer... read more

Thomas Constable

Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - Philippians 4:7

Peace in the heart will follow praying about what concerns us. The phrase "the peace of God" occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. This is peace that comes from God rather than peace with God. It is a peace that comes to us when we pray because we enter into the tranquility of God’s own presence. Those doing the praying are believers. This peace, or release from tension, is something that we cannot fully comprehend. Nevertheless this peace acts as a sentry to guard the believer’s heart... read more

John Darby

Darby's Synopsis of the New Testament - Philippians 4:5

4:5 gentleness (c-3) Or, 'moderation,' 'mildness,' not insisting on one's rights. As 'gentle,' James 3:17 . read more

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