| Scripture |
Expanded Comments |
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| 1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, |
If there be therefore – They should be on the alert to appreciate true quality and character wherever found-- generously looking for noble qualities in others. R5846:3
If you have found these fruits to be a part of the character-likeness of Christ, let these be more developed in you. R5810:3
It is as though Paul would test them whether or not any would deny that these graces appertain to all who have come into Christ. R2227:6, R5810:3
Consolation – Comfort. Let us be more worthy of the name Barnabas--Comforter of the brethren. R3436:6
Comfort of love – Service, when love prompts, is pleasant, and renders the most arduous task an easy one. R31:6*
If any bowels – The bowels were formerly considered the seat of the tender emotions, pity, compassion of heart. R5810:3
If they have any heart. R2227:6
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| 2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. |
Fulfil ye my joy – "Complete my joy." (Diaglott) R309:4*
The Epistle to the Philippians has been styled an epistle of joy. Paul's joy would be filled full in proportion as he could realize that the brethren had the proper mind of Christ, its love and harmony. R5846:3, R5810:4, R2228:1
Paul's joy would be full by knowing that they truly loved, sympathized with, and consoled one another. Mere professions were not enough. R5810:4, R2228:1
Be likeminded – By being thus minded toward each other-- a spirit of perfect unity and fellowship. R5810:4, R2228:1
"That you may think the same thing." (Diaglott) R309:4*
Of one accord – The comfort and peace of the Church are dependent largely upon unity of the spirit of the Lord in the various members. R3436:5
"United in soul." (Diaglott) R309:4*
Of one mind – It is one thing to love all God's children though entangled in sects, and another to avoid the meshes of their captivity. R1130:6*
"Minding the one thing." (Diaglott) R309:4*
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| 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. |
Let nothing be done – "Preserve the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace." (Eph. 4:3) F282
"Do all to the glory of God." (1 Cor. 10:31) R5956:3
When we come together to study the divine Word and to help one another as members of the Body of Christ. OV426:T
"Doing nothing." (Diaglott) R309:4*
In the Church nor in the home. R3940:1
Through strife – "From party-spirit." (Diaglott) R5842:3, R309:4*, R69:5*
Our conduct should be as peaceable as loyalty to righteousness will permit, but not lacking firmness nor combativeness when suitable. HG471:3
Or vainglory – "Self last" is the very essence of this admonition. The apostles had to learn the lesson. The principle extends to the ecclesia. R5958:6
Self-laudation and strivings for preeminence are the greatest enemies to the Spirit of the Lord and to the attainment of his blessing. R5810:5, R2228:1
Lowliness of mind – "Humility." (Diaglott) R5842:6, R309:4*
God cannot exalt any who are not humble. Submission indicates faith. We look for his providential detailed guidance daily. R5844:2
Considering the evil results of the pride of Lucifer and Mother Eve, and the beautiful example of the Logos, we find humility is basic. R5843:3
We should think soberly of ourselves. All our powers come from God. The fact that God has given us a gift indicates that we lacked it. R5843:4
The most submissive will receive the greatest blessing. If we would make true progress, we must say from the heart, "Thy will be done." R5843:6
A mental quality which enables its possessor to look up with appreciation, not only to God, but also to good earthly qualities. R5842:3
Some of the Lord's people may be proud of having the truth or of their ability to serve the truth. Such pride indicates a very small mind. R5842:3
This does not signify an ignorance of talents which we possess, but no one person would have developed all the graces of the holy Spirit. R5810:5, R2228:1
Even if born with humbleness of mind, we should need to take care that self-conceit and pride do not come in. R4928:2
Christian humility is one of the most important graces, requiring continual cultivation. R2227:6, R4928:2
Let each esteem other – Discerning the good qualities of others; noting wherein others were superior to themselves. R5846:3, R5810:5, R2228:2
Considering the interests of the Lord's cause, and ignoring self-will or pride. R5846:3
Though they may have less than I have, they may be using all they have with more resolute purpose to succeed than I am with what I have. R5843:1
God may esteem that brother more highly than he does us. Since God is dealing with this one as a son, he is therefore to be so esteemed. R5843:2
Not considering our own good qualities so much as those of others. R4928:3
We should not be envious. If we cannot speak well of our brother, do not let us speak evil, for God will bring all things to light. R31:6*
Better than themselves – More important. R5901:1
"As excelling yourselves." (Diaglott) R5842:6, R309:4*
If we look at our own imperfections and the good qualities of others, we shall find ourselves more and more appreciative of others. R4928:3
Greater in saintliness. R2407:4; OV426:T
"In honor preferring one another." (Rom. 1:10) R2011:4
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| 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. |
On his own things – Troubles and interest. R1676:6
Interests, welfare, talents. R2228:2, R69:5*
To look merely on his own interest or welfare or comfort or talents, and to ignore those of others would be a manifestation of selfishness. R5810:5, R4928:5, R2228:2
On the things of others – The rights of others, the ability of others. R5846:3
In proportion as we are filled with the holy spirit of love, we shall find ourselves interested in the welfare and happiness of others. R5810:6, R4928:5, R2228:2
The principle of love. R1213:2*
Not education, but supreme love for God, will solve men's problems. R1190:5*
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| 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: |
Let – Permit. R5844:5; CR444:3
Have. R316:1*
God was not seeking to force this mind upon Christ, nor is he seeking to force it upon us. R5844:5
It is a call for sacrificers. R5324:1
This mind – The Father's Spirit was communicated to our Lord Jesus, Luke 4:18, Isa. 61:1, Isa. 11:2,3. E169
Only the humble-minded are prepared to learn the great lessons which must be learned before they will be ready for profitable exaltation. R5847:5
One of the qualities necessary to the Church in order that they could be acceptable to the Father is an eager desire to please God. R5844:4
The most wonderful demonstration of humility, meekness and obedience to God ever manifested or conceived. R4929:1, R2228:3; CR402:6
Because the Lord will thus equitably adjust human affairs in his own due time, we can afford to endure hardness now, as Jesus did. R2613:5
This disposition of heart and consecration of will. R1563:4
He became obedient unto death. We are to be crucified with him, baptized into his death, dead with him, offering our all. R328:3*
"Disposition." (Diaglott) R309:4*
A desire to do only the Father's will. R35:3
Be in you – Work out in us the character-likeness of our Head. R5844:5, R5810:6, R4929:1, R2228:2
Not only crucify our own wills, but fully accept of and use the Lord's will. "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly." (Col. 3:16) R962:5
It is for us to follow the leadings of the Lord and the arrangements he has made that we may obtain the spirit of the Master. CR444:3
Which was also in Christ Jesus – "Not my will, but thine, be done"; "I came not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me"; "My Father is greater than all." R5846:6
The Heavenly Father set before his son a great proposition. The Logos, full of faith and obedience, heartily entered into the proposition. R5352:4
"The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister." (Matt. 20:28) "He began to wash the disciples' feet." (John 13:5) R1987:3
The Lord gave words of warning against pride, but also gave words of encouragement to strengthen them. R1988:1
Jesus Christ was sanctified, and sent into the world for the good of the human race; and his body or bride are for the same purpose. R69:5*
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| 6 Who, existing in the form of God, counted not the being on an equality with God a thing to be grasped: |
Who – That we may discern how our Lord exemplified the spirit of humility, the Apostle sums up the story of his humiliation. R2228:2
Being – Existing. R5767:6, R1337:1*, R316:1*
In the form of God – There are different orders of spirit being. Some are: the angelic nature, different from the Logos, both different from Jehovah. A178
As the Logos, he was in the form of God--the spirit condition. R5844:4, R802:6, R725:6, R316:1*, R280:4, A178
A spirit form, a high and glorious condition. R4928:6, R2228:2, R547:1; CR451:5; A178
A likeness of Jehovah. R2408:2
A mighty one. R1686:2, R1337:1*, R422:4
Unitarians take away from the dignity and honor of our Lord by denying that he had an existence before his conception in Mary. R505:2*
It is strange that Christian leaders question the miraculous birth of Jesus and his being our Redeemer and reject his pre-human existence. R5767:6
Although a spiritual being, he was not equal with God. If he had been immortal, he could not have become a man. R316:1*
Thought it not robbery – Even the King James version does not teach the doctrine of trinity. A being does not rob himself, nor think about being equal with himself. E79
This opposes the Apostle's meaning. Could be translated "Who thought not by robbery to be equal with God," or other accurate ways. E80; R5748:3, R2408:2, R1515:1, R422:6
"Did not meditate a usurpation." (Diaglott) E81; R2408:2, R1686:3, R725:6, R422:4, R369:6, R306:2; OV306:2
"Counted it not a thing to be grasped to be on an equality with God." (Revised Version margin) E81, R5767:6, R2408:3, R802:6, R316:1*
Thought it not robbery to speak of himself as being a member of God's family--the Son of God. R280:4
To be equal with God – The Apostle is urging the Christian to have a mind of humility like Christ, not to consider being equal with God. E80
No translation save our Common Version gives the thought that Jesus considered himself equal to the Father, but all are to the contrary. R5748:3
Not selfishly, ambitiously, grasping higher things than God conferred upon him--not seeking to set up a rival empire, as Satan did. R4928:6, R2228:2
Satan's course: "I will be as the Most High (his peer, his equal)." (Isa. 14:12-15) R2228:3, R1515:2, R725:6, R490:2; E80
"The condemnation of the devil" (1 Tim. 3:6)--the ambition to be great--is a warning against having novices as elders. R1892:3
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| 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: |
But – On the contrary. R1686:3, R1515:2, R725:6; OV306:2
Made himself – Our Lord's change of nature is represented as a voluntary act on his part. R5128:1; CR451:6; HG309:2; OV407:2
Of no reputation – "The oil of gladness above (his) fellows"--holy joy, holy prospects--sustained him when he made himself of no reputation and became poor. R5847:2
Divested himself of his former glory and honor. R5844:4, R1686:3, R1515:2
Emptied himself. R5767:6, R316:1*
Stooped from his high position. R5352:2
There are sons of God on the heavenly plane who were never given an opportunity to manifest such a zeal as this, given to the Logos. R5250:3
To humble himself, to take a lower nature, and to do a work which would involve humiliation, pain and suffering. R4928:6
This humbling was no part of the ransom nor of the sin-offering. It was a preparatory work. R4535:6
Typified by Moses leaving the Egyptian court and taking his place amongst the Israelites. R4058:2
His sacrifice began with his riches, heavenly glory and subsequently human talents, his reputation and will; it ended with his life. R2761:4
Took upon him the form of a servant – "Taking a bondman's form." (Diaglott) R4058:2, R5352:2, R1686:3, R490:2, R422:5; E394
All Christians must be servants, if like their Master. R2725:2
An inferior one. R1337:1*
He had none of this world's goods. The wealth which he left was the glory he had with the Father before the world was. R1060:2, R446:5*
Taking the form of a bond servant. R316:1*
Our High priest had a body prepared for him, and this body he offered. This change in condition is what the apostle meant in this Scripture. R144:6*
God gave his Son. The Son gave himself. The love of the infinite God was shown; part of the work of the Son was to reveal the Father. R9:3*
The likeness of men – "Was made flesh." (John 1:14) A178; R4098:2, R1603:6, R1515:2
The divine, angelic, and human natures are separate and distinct. A178, R122:2, R89:1
Our Lord left his glory and came down two steps to become a man, the same nature as the sinner whose substitute in death he was to become. A178
Not a sinful man, but a perfect one, in the image and likeness of God, as was the first Adam originally--"holy, harmless, undefiled." R5846:6
A perfect man had sinned, only a perfect man could pay the price. R4535:6
The form or condition of a man--the human condition. R1603:6, R709:4, R482:2*
As the man Christ Jesus, the Son gave himself a ransom for Adam and his race. R1230:6, R1228:4, R709:4
It was not a pretense but an actuality, that he was a man, tried and tempted like as we are, weary, hungry, sorrowful, praying, dying. R809:3
Although human and spiritual beings are dissimilar, some during this age are offered a change of nature. Jesus changed natures twice. R547:1
Becoming in the likeness of men. R316:1*
The ransom cannot call for a God to redeem a man, nor any spirit being to do so; for there could be no correspondency between them. SM659:T
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| 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. |
And – Afterward. R1515:2
Found in fashion as a man – "A little lower than the angels." (Heb. 2:9) A179; R5830:1, R4098:2, R1278:3, R1228:2, R463:1
"Verily he took not on him the nature of angels." (Heb. 2:16) A178
A human soul. R5578:6
Took the bondman's form, "the seed of Abraham." (Heb. 2:16) R5578:6, R5352:2; Q447:3
If the Father had been incarnated in a fleshly body, he could not have done his own will more perfectly. But Jesus was not incarnated. R5292:5, R5157:1, R5064:3
The first step toward the achievement of the Father's will was the taking of a nature lower than any on the spirit plane. R5128:2
"He was rich, but for your sakes he became poor." (2 Cor. 8:9) R1879:3
He who had a higher form became a man--not an imperfect man, but a full, perfect representative of the highest order of earthly beings. R463:1, A178
Thirty years old. R314:5, R1385:4
"Holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners," no need for imputation of merit as we require it, a full offset for Adam. SM667:2
He humbled himself – This one, found so humble, learned his lessons well: "He learned obedience by the things which he suffered." Heb. 5:8; E51
Satan thought to exalt himself (Isa. 14:13-14), Jesus to humble himself. R5981:3, R5186:2, R1515:2; E80; NS16:5
This involved a great humiliation--leaving the dignity of the chiefest on the spirit plane, the chiefest of all God's creatures. R5846:6; E81
Not for all eternity, but merely "for the suffering of death." (Heb. 2:9) R5622:4, R2317:4
He humbled himself unto death. He did not humble himself before he became a man, but afterwards. R5128:2, R101:4*
He left the glory which he had with the Father and humbled himself to the human nature. R4964:3, R3378:3, R2981:1, R1603:3, R1278:3, R810:4, R482:2; E81; SM67:T
"In him was life." He did not receive his life from an earthly father but was begotten from above his life transferred from a higher plane. R4154:3
Humility is the underlying principle of the divine government. Jesus' example of humility provides lessons for us. R3537:2, R1487:5; NS16:5
Cain is an example of Satan's folly and ambitions, contrasted to Jesus' quenching all ambition in devotion to God. R2777:3
Our Lord's perfect humility demonstrated that he was loyal to the core to the heavenly Father; he shared the Father's love for the race. R2228:4
Humbled (sacrificed himself during 3 " years). R314:5, R1385:4; E394
Obedient unto death – It was needful that Jesus be perfected in experiences through things which he suffered. (Heb. 2:9-10) E51
All who would share with him the divine nature must also share with him in trials and sufferings and testings, proving faithful. F66; R456:6, R314:5; CR274:4
As a child he said, "Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?" As a man, he promptly testified his consecration to death. R5847:1
The Lord's hand may be heavy, as in the case of Jesus. But it did not crush him. It was the hand of love, testing his obedience. R5844:1
His death was the antitype of the serpent raised on the pole by Moses, of the bullock of sin-offering slain by Aaron, of the Passover lamb. R5847:1
He surrendered his will, and with it everything and every power he possessed. He zealously carried out his covenant unto death. R5690:5
It was the Father's proposition that the Logos should demonstrate his faith and loyalty by becoming man's Redeemer at Calvary. R5352:4; HG309:2
The Messiah had to demonstrate his worthiness by humility, obedience, loyalty, even unto death. R4964:3, R4494:6; E81; SM67:T
Humility enabled our Lord to render perfect obedience. R4929:1
Moses pictures the unselfish Jesus when he tells the Lord that if Israel's sin could not be forgiven he would desire to be blotted out. R3048:4
He tasted death for every man. (Heb. 2:9) R1278:5
Death in no sense had any claim upon Jesus. He offered himself, a man for men. He became obedient. He was free from sin and its wages. R573:3
The divine nature was being perfected by the obedience of the already perfect human nature. R456:5
If he had been immortal as a man, he could not have died. R316:2*, R280:4
His last act was as much and no more, a part of his obedience, than his first. He kept giving until he had given all he had. R157:6
Death was the last act of his humiliation, not the first. R145:1*
The order of this text teaches that Jesus left the glory of his pre-human existence, but he did not die until he died as a man. R106:3*, R47:2*
By one man's obedience the world is justified unto life. (Rom. 5:19) R37:3, R676:6*, R430:5
To demonstrate his love and loyalty. SM67:T
Even the death of the cross – The life Jesus now has on the spirit plane was a reward from the Father for his obedience unto death, "even the death of the cross." R5946:6, A178
The Jews expected the promised kingdom of Messiah, but failed to realize the need for a ransom-price, and that Messiah must die. R5761:3
It was necessary that Jesus should suffer the death of the cross, in order that he might redeem the Jew. R5421:6
The most ignominious form of death--dying as a culprit, crucified between two thieves. R4964:4, R4098:2, R2775:2, R2316:2, R1879:3, R1515:2; E37, E394
It was not the pain, not the agony, which constituted our ransom-price; it was our Lord's death. R4929:1, R2316:3, R1231:1, R75:4*
Jesus' disgraceful death demonstrated his loyalty so that angels and men would know that the Father was just in rewarding him so highly. R4171:2
The shame of crucifixion as a malefactor was probably kept hidden from Jesus until just before it happened. He prayed this might be removed. R2467:4, R981:2
When it pleased the Father to require that the death should be an ignominous one, Jesus did not draw back, but said: "Thy will be done." R2228:3
Jesus was begotten at age 30 when he consecrated himself wholly to God, even to death. R1385:4
As our ransom, death in any form would do; but as proof of his obedience to the Father's plan, the shame of the cross was added. R1231:1
The obedience implied in becoming a man was great, yet the trial was severer still and would lead to death as and for the sinner. R981:2
Jesus' death on the cross was the one righteous act that made it possible for all men to be justly entitled to life--resurrected. R676:6*
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| 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: |
Wherefore – He was not exalted to the divine nature until the human nature was actually sacrificed--dead. A179
Because Jesus was found so loyal to Jehovah, he was entrusted with great honor and power. E51
On this account--because of his exhibition of loyalty, humility, and obedience even unto death. E82; R5180:6, R5055:1, R4929:1, R4855:4, R2228:4, R1985:1, R1278:4, R667:5, R422:5, R280:4, R61:3*; CR462:5; Q657:5
Jesus' previous station had been second only to Jehovah. He exchanged that nature for an earthly one, to give his flesh for the world. R5748:5
Had Jesus failed to faithfully keep his covenant of sacrifice, he would not have been exalted, but lost life itself. R5078:6
The Lord was first of all a spirit-being; secondly, he was made flesh; thirdly, God rewarded him personally with a high exaltation. R4905:3, R875:1*; A178, Q443:1
His glory and honor, influence and power, will be proportionate to the sufferings and ignominy which he experienced. R3590:1
He was only made flesh so that he should taste death for every man (Heb. 2:9). When he had finished that work, he was glorified. R3476:5
By virtue of his sacrifice of riches and honors and will and life itself. R2761:4
"Blessed are the humble-minded (poor in spirit) for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Our Redeemer was thus, the adversary the opposite. R2585:5
Because of our Lord's obedience in laying down his life as our sin-offering. R2519:2, R1278:4
As a reward for his atoning sacrifice. R1829:3, R667:5
The humiliation and vicarious sacrifice of Christ is the cause of his present exaltation and glory and power. R1599:5
Jesus was, because of the sacrifice of his humanity, endowed at his resurrection with the divine nature, the express image of his Father. R1592:1
Because he did not attempt to usurp, but on the contrary was humble. R2761:4, R2046:4
"Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors." (Isa. 53:12) R1360:4
Because the Lord Jesus was put to the severest possible test, and the test proved his loyalty and faithfulness, God exalted him. R1252:4*
The ransom given in the person of Jesus, the willing sacrifice, is made to redound to his higher exaltation far above angels. R872:5
It had been Jehovah's power, delegated to Jesus, which performed miracles. Because of Jesus' obedience he was now given this power. R810:4
As the sacrificing of the human rights progressed, his right to the divine increased; at Calvary, the right to divine nature was secured. R456:5; A179
Because of his obedience, one of the joys set before Jesus was to be accounted worthy of more intimate relationship with Jehovah. R418:1
Because of this obedience--death on the cross. R280:4; E37
Because of his obedience to death, he had immortality and more glory and honor than that which he had with the Father before the world was. R233:6; A178
The ransom price was paid; then Jesus had to be exalted to present it to the Father. Then the divine nature could come to his church. R182:4
Our glorified Lord was once the man Christ Jesus. The new creation consists in making the old man new by the power of the spirit. R66:5*
Because Christ is our ransom to redeem us, our example of voluntary obedience, and he consented to the crucifixion, God exalted him. R51:3; HG309:2
Rewarding our Lord for what he was to do for mankind, the Father gave him the promise of the divine nature; and our Lord has attained it. SM668:T
God also hath highly exalted him – "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time." (1 Pet. 5:6) A84; E151; R5666:5, R51:3*
His pre-human existence was not as high as he is now. He is now of the highest order of spirit being, a partaker of the divine nature. A178
He is now highly exalted to the divine nature and likeness. B108
Clothed with all power. B238
The Father exalted Jesus to his right hand, giving him, beyond what he had resigned, glory and immortality--the divine nature. R5847:2
Jesus is a spirit being of the highest order who sat down at the Father's right hand, on the Father's throne. R5830:1, R667:5, R329:3
Making him partaker of the divine nature and inheritor of all the promises of glory, honor, immortality. R5761:3, R5690:5, R5250:4, R3048:4, R2317:5, R1879:3
What contradiction to say that Jesus is God! The Father has always been immortal, whereas our Lord attained his present status. R5749:2
Raised to the highest position. (Strong) R5684:4
Jesus was the first one who descended to the tomb, and was raised from the dead, and who has ascended far above every name that is named. R5612:5
The Lord of Glory in heaven is not flesh. If he were, he would be "a little lower than the angels." He has ascended far above the angels. R5579:4, R5223:1
The fleshly nature was only for the purpose of giving man's redemption-price; afterward, Jesus surrendered that ransom-price. R5578:6, R1873:4, R1278:4, R709:4, R329:2
To assume that Jesus is now a fleshly being with wounds and scars, is to suppose that the Father never really exalted him. R5416:2, R1952:5
He was raised from the dead by the Father, more highly exalted than in his pre-human existence, to the divine nature with its glory. R5352:4, R1278:5, R329:3
All mankind shall see him with the eyes of their understanding. Like God, he is one "whom no man hath seen nor can see." R5269:2, R242:3
The Captain of our Salvation, the Redeemer, has already reached his destiny of high exaltation, "at the right hand of God." R5263:5
As Moses illustrates the principles of God's dealing with those whom he would make his special servants, he reminds us of Jesus. R5252:5
Our loving Father highly honored and glorified our dear Redeemer and arranged to select a bride and joint-heir in glory for his Son. R4783:4; HG298:5
Christ became the express image of God; the Logos had been an express likeness of the Father's person; Jesus was in God's likeness. R4667:3
If Jesus was raised a human being, he would have been circumscribed in his powers, talents, dignities, honors-- forever humiliated. R4176:1
This means that here are two persons, for in no other way could one exalt and honor another. R4165:2
This text alone would be convincing that our Lord is no longer a man. R3378:3, R5416:2, R4176:1, R1873:4
It is gratifying to all who truly love Jesus to know that his generosity and obedience did not result in a permanent loss. R3378:3, R2479:1
The exaltation came to him in his resurrection change. R3376:2
God did not provide our redemption by an injustice to his Son; his full consent was first secured, and he has been abundantly rewarded. R3028:5, R387:2; HG309:2
"I, if I be lifted up, will draw all men unto me," John 12:32, secondarily applies to this exaltation. R2519:2
Justice might properly object to the recreation of Jesus as a man, but would have no ground for objecting to the creation of a new creature. R2477:4
Our Lord is the great example of a proper humility and obedience to God, and the reward of this obedience encourages us, his joint-heirs. R2228:5
With its companion texts, 1 Cor. 8:6 and John 5:23, this makes it clear that the Father and the Son are two different personages. R2199:4
Though highly exalted, Jesus' heart is never lifted up by pride, as have been the hearts of all human kings. R2046:4
Jesus is our exalted Lord with power to deliver us from the sleep of death and to train all the willing up to fitness for eternal life. R1849:3
We now know him as the King of glory, the same seen by Saul of Tarsus, a spirit being shining above the brightness of the noon-day sun. R1693:1
This exaltation was part of the scenario which the "spirits in prison" witnessed, and by which Jesus preached to them. R1679:4; HG728:2
God takes us into fellowship as co-workers together with him in the lifting up of the fallen world which he loved so much. R1670:2
He was highly exalted and given all power for the purpose of accomplishing the complete deliverance of all those whom he purchased. R1583:1
God inspired Paul to approach the truth reasonably, that we might have a reasonable faith. Jesus' high exaltation is a reasonable reward. R1566:1
Jesus was fully born by resurrection to the divine nature. R1385:4
God's justice did not compel our sinless Lord to suffer the penalty of man's sin; but it did permit and reward the Lord's willing sacrifice. R1286:6, R387:2
All men shall honor the Son even as they honor the Father. (John 5:23) "He is Lord of all." (Acts 10:36) R1278:5, R280:5
This is God's means of providing for the recovery to full harmony of whosoever will obey His representative, the Anointed. R1269:6
This is the "likeness of his resurrection" (Rom. 6:5), an exceeding high exaltation. R1262:6
He only asked to be restored to what he was before; but the Father exalted him beyond that previous glory. R1161:5
John 6:62 and Mark 16:19 testify that before Jesus' advent to earth he occupied the place next to the Father; later, he was highly exalted. R1059:3
If he had been equal to God before his earthly experience, he could not have been more highly exalted afterward. R803:1
"Though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him (so) no more." 2 Cor. 5:16. He is now exalted, spiritual. R578:2
Most Christians who consider the second advent think Jesus is now a glorified man, failing to see that he laid down his human nature. R546:3
Compare with Heb. 1:4. Now he is a new creature, a sharer in the glory of the divine nature; not the glory of a man, below the angels. R453:5
We are assured that Jesus did share in the Father's plan: "For the joy that was set before him, he endured the cross." (Heb. 12:2) R387:2; CR451:6; HG309:2
The additional honors and glory Christ has received will magnify and multiply with the revolving ages. R445:5*
What the sacrifice of Jesus did for him, our sacrifice is to do for us. Laying down our human nature, we partake of the divine nature. R382:6; HG298:5
Implies that Jesus' present glory is greater than that he possessed before becoming a man. R370:2, R280:5; Q448:T, CR413:5
One joy set before Jesus was to release humanity from death; one was to bring many sons to glory. Another was his exaltation. R164:3, CR451:6
Instead of pardoning sinners, instead of making new, imperfect laws adapted to human degradation, God's plan rewarded a savior. HG309:2
An assurance of the Heavenly Father's faithfulness in not leaving his Son on a lower plane. OV354:3
God commissioned Jesus to execute all the divine purposes; and to him he handed over the scroll with the privilege of comprehending it. SM489:2
Given him a name – Authority above every name, next to the Father. A92; R2550:5, R710:4
A title and honor, a distinction, a place above all others. R5847:2, R4213:3, R2819:3, R1515:2, R1278:5; E444
One name he shall be called is Wonderful, which describes his career, his character, his life among men, his resurrection, his exaltation. R3912:2
"His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, mighty God, Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace." (Isa. 9:6) R3687:3
Honor, dominion and power above all others, next to his own. R2550:5, R710:4
Official position. R61:3*, R316:2*
Above every name – "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." (Matt. 28:18) A289; B111; R1592:1, R1269:6
The Father's name only excepted. (1 Cor. 15:27) B108, E394, E444; R1879:4, R1252:4*
"That all men should honor the Son even as they honor the Father." (John 5:23) E83; R2199:4, R1278:5, R1231:4, R667:5, R418:1; HG298:5
Far above angels and principalities and powers and every name that is named in heaven and in earth. (Eph. 1:21) E393; R4929:1, R3378:6, R2761:4, R2408:2, R2228:4, R1262:6; OV407:2; SM74:1
After his resurrection to the right hand of the Father, he was glorified and received a name above every name. The angels sang. R2156:2
Lord of all. R1278:4, R709:4; OV307:6
The Greek word for "every" is also translated "all" elsewhere. R838:4
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| 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; |
That at the name – Messiah's Kingdom must first enlighten the world. R5008:2*
Of Jesus – Our Lord's resurrection was to glory, honor and immortality, far above human nature, angelic nature, principalities and powers. (Eph. 1:21) SM74:1; R5269:1
He has become the "seed of Abraham" which is to bless the race redeemed when Jehovah's "due time" shall come. R4929:2
Every knee – Those who crucified him, yea, all the world of mankind, will know of his great sacrifice and of his high exaltation. They must bow to him. R5847:4
During his Messianic kingdom of a thousand years. R5587:6
Soon every knee will bow to God and every tongue confess his praise. All lovers of sin will be destroyed in the second death. R5286:6, R2972:5, R1057:2
All mankind will come into fellowship with the kingdom. It will spread for the thousand years, from one individual to another. R5183:2
Before the close of the Millennial age. R3687:3
All must hear the glad tidings: the living nations (to earth's remotest bounds) and all who have gone down into death. R2972:5, R331:5
The authority of Christ is not confined to the house of Israel nor to the land of Palestine, because all authority is his. R1283:2*
Because the sheep are more numerous than the goats, it would seem the obedient will outnumber the disobedient in the end of the Millennium. R1057:4
God's original plan (of peopling the earth with human beings in harmony with himself) will be accomplished. R1057:4
The second Adam's glory is so much superior to angels, as well as being superior to the first man, that every knee shall bow. R486:4
All will recognize the power of Jehovah's anointed. R331:5
After the thousand years in which Satan is bound, after the little season, the agency of evil being ended, then every knee shall bow. R255:1
Only Gospel age saints will share in the first resurrection, but vast multitudes will be saved in the earthly resurrection. HG244:1
On earth, after the glorification of the Church, all men shall have a full opportunity to come back into full harmony with God. HG234:3
Offers of grace will no longer be held out, with reward for faith attached, for knowledge shall fill the whole earth. (Isa. 11:9) SM440:T
Of the heavenly and earthly families. OV307:6; R5292:5
Should bow – The work of the promised Kingdom is not merely a work of grace in the hearts of believers. A282
The selection now of the "little flock" confirms these promises. A283
To the power then in control. D520
But not yet. Many fail to see God's purpose included a Church class. The Church must be completed and then inaugurated with Messiah. R5761:6, R4964:5
Recognize and render obedience. R5587:6
Testifying to the success of the blessing which will attend the work of the Church. R5057:3, R4534:4, R4527:6
In that great seventh day, the kingdom of Messiah will rule and reign in the world for its judgment, uplifting and b1essing. R4879:6
That which will specially mark Messiah's kingdom will be that it will have perfect ideals and it will be backed by divine power. R4875:1
Joseph reminds us of the Lord Jesus: Pharaoh provided that he should be escorted before the people that they would bow the knee. R3979:4
First he appeared in the presence of the Father and presented before him his complete work; then he was glorified above every name. R2819:3
Because our Lord was found worthy to be the head of the "seed of Abraham," to him every knee shall bow. R2228:4
The stony and proud hearts will be broken. Humbled, mankind will be able and willing to appreciate the grace of God. R1466:1
Forced submission, by a rod of iron (Rev. 2:27). But, at the same time there will be a drawing of men's hearts--hearts cannot be forced. R1057:1; SM440:T
It is God's purpose, committed into the hands of Jesus Christ, to save a lost world. The end gained is the fruit of God's love. R99:2*
The Lord's people now recognize Jesus as their king: he is not yet the king of the world. HG663:5
As a result of the knowledge of the glory of God filling the earth. (Isa. 11:9; Hab. 2:14) SM130:2
In bowing to Christ and the Church the world will be bowing to Jehovah (Isa. 45:23); Jesus will forever be the representative of the Father. OV351:4
Of things in heaven – Spiritual beings. A289
He was received into glory; and all the angels of God worshiped him whom the Father had thus exalted to his own right hand. R5847:2
The Church also acknowledging him her Lord, her Head. R4476:3
Heavenly beings--angels. R458:1, R331:5, R61:3*
Already the heavenly hosts have bowed. CR435:3; CR452:1; Q394:T
"Let all the angels of God worship (acknowledge) Him." (Heb. 1:6) OV307:6
Things in earth – Human beings. A289
It is by the Father's decree that our Lord Jesus will take possession of earth. (Psa. 2:8) R1385:4
Living men. R458:1, R331:5, R61:3*
Things of earth will bow during the Millennial age. Q394:T, OV307:6
Things under the earth – Those now in the tomb, but yet to be raised to learn the truth as it is in Jesus. R5748:5, R458:1, R331:5, R61:3*
The duration of perpetual (olam) is determined by context. See Jer. 51:39 and Jer. 51:57. Paul does not here consider death perpetual. R3725:5
Neither death nor hades is an insurmountable barrier to this opportunity of bowing and confessing; the Lord holds the keys of both. R1283:3*
They that are in their graves--the dead. R280:4
Underground ones. (Diaglott) R69:6*
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| 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. |
Every tongue should confess – To the justice of the arrangement. D520
The most wonderful thing that the Bible tells us respecting that new day is that it will bring enlightenment to every creature. R6013:5
At the close of the Messianic reign. R5927:6
For a thousand years the restitution privileges will be open to the whole world of mankind. All will know the Lord. R5919:6
Will be heard praising God. R4974:2
The multitude, seeing the blind man had received sight, praised God. All spiritual blindness will change to spiritual sight, praise God. R3848:5
Knowledge shall fill the whole earth as the waters cover the great deep. (Isa. 11:9) All shall know the Lord. (Jer. 31:34) CR51:3; CR21:6
Confess with joy. OV175:6
By and by Christ shall reign; he shall put down everything contrary to God. He will reign for a thousand years, but he is not reigning now. HG188:6
The jewels, the Messianic Kingdom, will bless the world. Satan will be bound. Blinded eyes will be opened; deaf ears unstopped. (Hab. 2:14) SM130:2
Antichrists compelled each knee to bow, taught that they were God's kingdom, caused persecution of the saints, hindered truth-seekers. R321:2
That Jesus Christ is Lord – He is to be the world's King of Glory and is to reign for a thousand years. R5847:4
That the Savior Anointed is the Lord. R1283:3*
Because he humbled himself to manhood, and then to disgraceful death in obedience to the Father's plan for our redemption. R810:4
Master, ruler. R458:1
Every inferior creature will recognize man as its lord, and every human being will recognize Christ as Lord. R419:2, R165:4
Let us not abandon hope of a Golden Age, the Restitution of All things, or Future Probation, for they are taught by many scriptures. HG337:2
The Scriptures speak of our Lord as already the Mediator, because the Father has indicated him as the one who will later perform mediation. SM720:1
To the glory of God the Father – All this glorifying of the Son will directly be to the Father's glory; the entire plan of salvation is of the Father and through the Son. R5847:4
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| 12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye 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. |
My beloved – St. Paul dearly loved the Philippian brethren, and he had received many proofs of their love for him, aiding him in time of need. R5846:3, R5810:2
Not an exhortation to the world, but to the Church of Christ alone, sons of God, through consecration and spirit-begetting. R5758:3, R5304:1
The new creation, the spiritual new creatures in Christ, yet they are the same ego, the same personality, as before becoming a new creature. R5303:2
Let us apply to ourselves the loving exhortations of the Apostle to the church at Philippi. R4929:2
As ye have always obeyed – The Apostle Paul pays a beautiful tribute to the church at Philippi. He refers in tender and loving terms to their obedience always. R5854:2, R2228:5
As in my presence – Greek, parousia. One of two places in the common English Bible where properly rendered "presence." B158, B159; R2979:1; HG24:4
Work out – We are under a solemn contract to see that the work of transformation steadily progresses. Our agreement was to be dead to the world. R5855:2
A work of sacrifice, a daily work of crucifixion of the flesh. This slow, painful, lingering process ends only with our death. R5855:4
Studying would not have made new creatures of us, nor any works. But after we have come into God's family through Jesus, good works show. R5759:2
We are to accept the Lord's providences as nourishments for the new creature, appropriating them to ourselves, that we may grow. R5759:5
This expression suggests something that is difficult, that requires time and patience; painstaking care. R5304:2
Treading the pathway of humility, continually checking human aspirations, keeping the sacrifice on the altar until consumed. R5186:4, R1920:3, R1487:5
Working out in ourselves through humility and obedience the character, the disposition of Christ. R4929:4, R2228:5
God does not purpose to take us to glory regardless of our own endeavors. The exhortation is to "work," to "labor," "to strive." R4796:2
No scripture implies we can be independent of our Lord. The perfect work of Christ, his merit imputed to us, is the basis of our own work. R4796:6
The new will must hold its dominating influence over the fleshly mind and body. R3986:5
Self-denial and self-sacrifice are works which must be performed if we would be of the elect--works not ours (as men) but as "new creatures." R3586:2
Those who are not up and doing are giving the enemy great advantage over them. R3150:1
Being justified, being called, we can make our calling and election sure. (2 Pet. 1:10) R2228:5, R4929:4, R2094:1*
A faith that Christ will save us in our sins is a misplaced faith. Rather, God will cleanse those who come to him by Christ and repent. R2154:6
The zeal which strives, runs, fights, and watches with vigilance that the sacrifice is kept upon the altar is regarded as extreme, peculiar. R2123:2
In the next age as in this age, it would be vain to expect eternal life because of Christ's righteousness and yet continue in sin. R2094:1*
It is BY our willing and BY our running that we obtain the prize; it is not OF our willing nor OF our running, but OF God's mercy. R2001:1
If you keep faith locked in your bosom and live as an earthly being, the works of earth will swallow up and destroy the faith. R216:4
God has placed you in the school of Christ, until you come to the full stature of Christ Jesus. Q619:4
We are to show our loyalty to the principles of God's Word and character by putting away all filthiness of the flesh and spirit. SM395:1
Your own salvation – Salvation is "not of ourselves, lest any man should boast." It is through Jesus, our Savior; our salvation is by grace. (Tit. 3:5) R5854:3
We cannot work out our own justification; but being justified by the blood of Christ, we can do our share in this great work. R5854:3, R2228:5, R741:6
A salvation from death to life, from sin to righteousness--a transformation from human nature to divine. R5854:5, R741:6
No one has salvation now except in a reckoned sense. R5304:1
The salvation peculiar to this Gospel age, "so great salvation" (Heb.2:3). R5304:1, R741:6
The great salvation to glory, honor and immortality which God hath promised. R4929:4, R2228:5, R741:6
Paul is addressing the Church, not the world. R5303:2
In this age and the next age, justification through faith in Christ does not insure eternal life; it secures legal standing before God. R2094:1*
With fear and trembling – A most solemn matter. The Lord requires the fulfilment of vows. If death is not voluntary, he will destroy our flesh or our being. R5855:5
Showing need of great carefulness--responsibility, liability to failure and its serious consequences--not to be taken lightly. R5856:1, R4796:6, R2154:6
Praying, watching, losing no time in retracing a wrong step and calling for forgiveness, never presuming upon God's mercy. R5492:4
A condition of great earnestness. There is no room for foolishness, or lightness, or frivolity. God is testing every power we possess. R5304:5
Lest we come short of worthiness for the prize promised to the faithful overcomers. R5186:4, R1167:1
Rebellion of any kind in our heart must be thoroughly killed, mortified, bringing our will into perfect submission to God's. R4910:4
Not the dread of Isa. 29:13, but like Jesus' fear of nonattainment of the promises. Not literal trembling, but proper fear of God is wisdom. R4796:3
Paul desired that these disciples should continue to manifest the fruits of the spirit, to grow in grace, and to learn self-denial. R1703:3
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| 13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. |
It is God – All evils permitted (sickness, pain, sorrow, trouble) shall by divine wisdom and love and power be overruled for good. E410, E411; R5855:5
By means of the promises in his Word. F71; R4929:4, R4790:1, R3586:2, R2879:1, R2228:5, R2123:4*, R597:6*; CR335:1; SM389:T
It is God who planned the whole matter and who has been working in us. We did not begin this work. It should never have occurred to us. R5855:5
It is encouraging for us to know that this warfare is not one which we must wage alone. All the powers of heaven are enlisted on our behalf. R5854:3, R2228:5
We could not do this work ourselves. The power that is working in us is of God. R5284:4, R2878:6
We may boast, but not of ourselves. Our boast is in God who is working in us. R5114:1
The Spirit of the Lord gives us a spirit of power, strength, courage, energy; we are able to do more than we could otherwise. R5094:2
We cannot work out our own justification. R4929:4, R3586:2, R2228:5
By means of the various experiences of life, its disciplines and humbling processes. We must take heed to each lesson as it comes. R4790:1, R2123:4*, R1920:3
By his indwelling spirit or disposition. R3251:6, R3586:2, R2123:3*
It is the Lord's part to provide the way, the truth, the life--the means. It is our part to use the means and thus to attain the prize. R3021:4
God works in us through Christ, while in his strength we work out our own salvation. R2123:4*
We are continually dependent on the Lord--for our first impulse toward holiness, and for the encouragement which his promises inspire. R1698:6
We can rejoice that our infirmities will cause God's power to shine forth the more brightly; our ability is from his favor. R1046:2*
Christian Sabbath-keeping is to refrain from doing our own ways, finding our own pleasures, speaking our own words, every day. HG583:5*
God's part is to forgive our past sins, cleanse us from past condemnation, cover our unintentional blemishes, and encourage. SM395:1
Which worketh in you – The Church. R1175:3, R5303:6
The work of grace goes on in our hearts and lives by his providences and by the instructions, warnings and counsels of his Word. R5855:6
The Father works in us as New Creatures--as we exercise ourselves in the control of the flesh, we become strong. R5759:4
Not as soon as you were bought, but from before the time of your begetting and quickening. You were called of God before consecration. R5303:2
The willing comes first, then the quickening, energizing, doing. His promises help; and He provided the Advocate--we cannot do perfectly. R5303:6
It was God that worked in Jesus. It is God that is now working in us in the same manner. R4597:1, R1920:3, R164:6
After our justification, God's power begins to work in us, knitting us together, making us completely one with the Shepherd. R4321:4
God strengthens our new minds by revealing to us more clearly the significance of the exceeding great and precious promises of his Word. R3986:5, R2661:4
"Our sufficiency is of God." (2 Cor. 3:5) It is only as we become filled with the spirit of God that we can do these things. R2123:3*
We are continually dependent on the Lord. R1698:6
Let God speak and guide through his Word. Search the Scriptures. Let us not magnify ourselves in relating our experiences nor in prayer. R317:4*
He will not work in us contrary to our will. CR444:4; CR335:1
Both to will and to do – Our progress is gradual, growing in grace, in knowledge, into God's character-likeness. R5759:5
To do what he has given us in his Word as his will. R5728:1, R4910:4, R1175:3
The willing comes first, then the quickening, energizing, doing. R5303:6; CR458:1
To will--as when we made our consecration--is not enough. To do--our good intentions must be brought into practice in our lives. R4796:2
Rather than only receiving more knowledge of God's plan, the facts of the Truth, we must permit the truth to work in our hearts. R2753:1
If you have been led of the Lord to will, to desire, to please him, you surely have a way to perform, to do, his pleasure. R548:6
From the time of his baptism, Jesus' words and works were of God. As we are led by the spirit, we will become sons and he will work in us. R418:4
His good pleasure – Which is to carry out the work of self-sacrifice even unto death. R5720:1; Q264:5
Christian common sense notes the principles and precepts of the divine law and acts accordingly. R1781:4
It is God's good pleasure to guide those who are fully consecrated. R1272:6
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| 14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings: |
Do all things – In following in the footsteps of our Lord Jesus. R4929:5, R5855:6, R5811:1
Without murmurings – We are not to find fault with the difficulties and narrowness of the way. R5811:1, R5855:6, R4929:5, R2228:6
The murmurers and complainers in typical Israel were not permitted to enter into Canaan's blessings, for murmurs are against the Lord. R4502:4
And disputings – Nor are we to dispute how or where we are to be led, nor to seek to have any other way than that which divine providence marks out for us. R5855:6, R5811:1, R4929:5, R2228:6
Work without complaining, without fault-finding, leaving to God the management of his work--realizing we would be unable to manage it. R4502:4
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| 15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; |
That ye may be blameless – Devoid of any disposition to do evil; not controlled by anger, malice, hatred, strife. R4797:1
Not necessarily perfect--to be blameless in the sight of God is to live so that he may see one's intentions to be just, loving, kind. R4797:1
We cannot expect to please everybody. We are to be blameless in the sight of those who are recognized as having the best judgment. R4797:2
It is safest to suppose our flesh is not dead, to keep guard against every snare of the adversary. Danger lurks in over-confidence. R4191:4
The "Head" will present us before the Father "blameless," "irreproachable," with the evidence that we followed in his steps. R3710:4
Those who come unto the Father by the Son will not be fully, actually presented until the Son shall have cleansed and perfected them. R1713:5
Our Lord Jesus will present before the Father all of the world counted worthy to attain to the Millennial age and full perfection of being. R916:5
And harmless – Not merely so far as God or the brethren would see, but in the sight of the world. R4797:1
The sons of God, without rebuke – Not yet sons of God without imperfection; but in the future, in the moment of our "change," we shall be "sons of God without rebuke." R5219:1
As such the Father received us the moment that Jesus applied to us his merit--when we accepted the Lord's terms and presented ourselves. R4578:6
Let not our former master, Sin, rule in us. We must overcome the world, throwing all our influence on the side of our new Captain. R1007:1
A crooked – The life of the Jewish nation not always open wickedness, but a crookedness, doing right and wrong-- ceremonies, hearts of unbelief. R4797:4
And perverse – Implies unwillingness to be guided by the Lord. R4797:4
Nation – Israel had continually gravitated toward idolatry. When corrected and brought back, their prosperity lasted until they strayed again. R2370:6
Ye shine as lights – It is the light of God's truth shining in our hearts which shines out upon the world. (2 Cor. 4:6) E293; R375:2
"Let your light so shine before men." (Matt. 5:16) E293
"Now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light." (Eph. 5:8; 1 Thes. 5:5) E293
In the world – The Lord's people are to seek to walk in his ways, that they may "show forth the praises of him who has called them out of darkness." R4797:4
Whatever light the world gets from the Bible reaches them indirectly, as reflected from the children of God. R3646:3
The world will fail to apprehend the light until "the heavenly city" is as a "city on a hill" which "cannot be hid." R421:6, R338:5
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| 16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. |
Holding forth – The work of the Church during this age (the Golden Table in the Holy) has been to feed all who enter the covenanted spiritual condition. T115
The word of life – We preach not ourselves, but Christ,-- the power of God and the wisdom of God. R1536:5
Represented by the shewbread. T115; R4782:4
In the day of Christ – When our "change" shall come. R5811:4
A period, not a 24-hour day. R2836:1
Paul urged the Church to so run, that they might share in the rejoicing in that day. R593:2
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| 17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. |
I joy – Paul was glad to pour out his own life on their behalf (margin) that they might attain unto the fullness of the likeness of Christ. R5811:1
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| 18 For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me. |
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| 19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. |
To send Timotheus – From Rome, Paul sent messengers and helpers to distant churches. R1570:5
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| 20 For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. |
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| 21 For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's. |
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| 22 But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. |
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| 23 Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me. |
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| 24 But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly. |
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| 25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. |
Your messenger – Epaphroditus had brought the memorial of the love of the Philippian church. Paul sent back with him this beautiful letter. R2227:6
From Rome, Paul sent messengers and helpers to distant churches. R1570:5
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| 26 For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick. |
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| 27 For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. |
Indeed he was sick – Upon Epaphroditus's recovery from his severe illness, the Apostle Paul used him as messenger to take this epistle to the church at Philippi. R5810:2
Epaphroditus, arriving at Rome in the malarial season, took dangerously ill, probably with what is termed the Pontine, or Roman fever. R3127:2, R2227:6
Sick nigh unto death – Divine power, so far as we are informed, was neither invoked nor exercised on his behalf. F653; R4980:1, R2838:1, R2364:6, R712:6
For the Gospel's sake--because of his faithful assistance in the work of the Lord when there seemed little help coming from other sources. R5810:2
Usually, saints have only received the healing of spiritual blindness and faltering; now, restitution healing of men (not saints) begins. R712:6
But God had mercy – It was of divine mercy and not of prayer that the recovery took place. R2838:2
God sometimes grants his "New Creatures" special favors and manifestations of an earthly sort in their hours of need. R2009:2
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| 28 I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful. |
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| 29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: |
Receive him – An introduction by letter, as a safe-guard against "false brethren." R1707:1, R1720:2
Hold such in reputation – Paul wrote not commandingly but entreatingly; not arbitrarily, but giving the reasons why those commended should be held in esteem. R1822:2
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| 30 Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me. |
For the work of Christ – Epaphroditus's sickness was of the same class of afflictions as the sufferings of Christ, aggravated by activity in God's service. R2007:3
Not regarding – Not sparing. R2007:3
His life – Greek, psuche; soul, being. E338
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