Bible Studies for Life By Jim Barnette, Ph.D.
Samford University and Brookwood Baptist Church, Mountain Brook
Giving with Joy
Philippians 4:10–20
Be content in the power and provision of God. (10–14)
Earlier in his letter Paul had occasion to allude to the gift that Epaphroditus delivered to him from the Philippians (see Phil. 2:30). Now he takes up the matter directly at the close of the letter. Paul rejoices “greatly” over their gift; the adverb “megalos” indicates Paul’s intense emotion over the love they have shown him. The apostle wants to make it clear, however, that he is not dependent on their gifts or seeking further provision. Indeed there is no instance in the biblical records of apostolic days of any servant of Christ making known his own material needs to any but his Lord. “Content” also can be translated “self-sufficient.”
The virtue of self-sufficiency was a favorite one among the Cynics and the Stoics, but Paul’s contentment is of a very different kind. Paradoxically, his self-sufficiency comes from God; it arises from Paul’s decision to give up everything in order to gain Christ (see 3:7–11). Paul has learned “the secret” of contentment. The Greek word for “secret” appears only here in the New Testament, and it is the technical term for initiation into the Greek mystery religions. So Paul has been let into a secret of the Christian religion — that true contentment is in yielding to Christ.
Freely give for the benefit of others. (15–18)
Paul deems it wise to remind the Philippians their partnership was in both giving and receiving (see 1 Cor. 9:11). The fellowship of those in Christ involves sharing with one another at all levels: The Philippians have shared Paul’s distress, just as they shared with him “in the matter of giving and receiving.” This does not mean the Philippians gave and Paul received. The giving and receiving were mutual, since he goes on to say he has been paid in full (that is, for what he has given them). No doubt the Philippians were in Paul’s debt in at least one way — he had brought them the saving message of the gospel.
The fact that the Philippians were the only believers who supported Paul is significant, because it suggests the bond between him and them was especially strong. The probable explanation as to why other churches did not contribute to his expenses seems to lie in Paul’s own fierce independence and his refusal to depend on others for support (see 1 Cor. 9:1–18; 1 Thess. 2:9).
God gives to us even as we give to others. (19–20)
Joyful sharing will never impoverish, for it is an expression of love and trust in God who will supply every need. Paul knows this from personal experience. “My God” is a phrase used seven times by the apostle (see Phil. 1:3). This section is rounded off with a doxology. The only possible response of the Christian Church to this revelation of God’s glory is to “give” God glory. The greatness and goodness of God are proclaimed and modeled by the worshipping community.
This extolling of God’s majesty will continue “for ever and ever” — literally, “to the ages of ages.” Thus not to Paul, not to the Philippians, but to “God and Father” shall glory be given eternally. The final “amen” is the affirming word of assurance that this will be so. This final “so be it” is Paul’s way — and our way — of acknowledging “glory to God forever and ever” is the way it is and will be, no matter what we do, and no matter what occurs in this life.
So let us, God’s people in all times and places, join the chorus.
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