View source for Text:MHC Concise Epistle to the Philippians

{{Infobox_Contents |
topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : Philippians |
subtopics = [[Philippi]]
* [[Text:EBD:Philippians, Epistle to|Easton's Bible Dictionary entry on Philippians]]
* [[Apostle Paul]] |
}}

Read the book of [[Epistle to the Philippians|Philippians]] from the [[Holy Bible|Bible]]

{{chapters}}

[[Philippians 1|1]] 
[[Philippians 2|2]] 
[[Philippians 3|3]] 
[[Philippians 4|4]] 

==Commentary==

[[Text:MHC Concise Philippians 1|1]] 
[[Text:MHC Concise Philippians 2|2]] 
[[Text:MHC Concise Philippians 3|3]] 
[[Text:MHC Concise Philippians 4|4]] 

{{mhc import}}

'''Commentary on the [[Epistle to the Philippians]]''' 

The Philippians felt a very deep interest for the apostle. The scope of the epistle is to confirm them in the faith, to encourage them to walk as becomes the [[gospel]] of [[Christ]], to caution them against judaizing teachers, and to express gratitude for their [[Christian]] bounty. This epistle is the only one, among those written by St. Paul, in which no censures are implied or expressed. Full commendation and confidence are in every part, and the Philippians are addressed with a peculiar affection, which every serious reader will perceive.
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'''Chapter''' 1 

''Chapter Outline'' 

The apostle offers up thanksgivings and [[prayer]]s, for the good work of [[grace]] in the Philippians. 

(1-7) 

He expresses affection, and prays for them. 

(8-11) 

Fortifies them against being cast down at his sufferings. 

(12-20) 

He stood prepared for glorifying [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] by life, or death. 

(21-26) 

Exhortations to zeal, and constancy in professing the [[gospel]]. 

(27-30) 

'''Verses''' 1-7 

The highest honour of the most eminent ministers is, to be servants of [[Christ]]. And those who are not really saints on earth, never will be saints in heaven. Out of [[Christ]], the best saints are sinners, and unable to stand before [[God]]. There is no [[peace]] without grace. Inward [[peace]] springs from a sense of [[Divine]] favour. And there is no [[grace]] and [[peace]] but from [[God]] our Father, the fountain and origin of all blessings. At Philippi the apostle was evil entreated, and saw little fruit of his labour; yet he remembers Philippi with joy. We must thank our [[God]] for the graces and comforts, gifts and usefulness of others, as we receive the benefit, and [[God]] receives the glory. The work of grace will never be perfected till the day of [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], the day of his appearance. But we may always be confident [[God]] will perform his good work, in every soul wherein he has really begun it by regeneration; though we must not [[trust]] in outward appearances, nor in any thing but a new creation to [[holiness]]. People are dear to their ministers, when they receive benefit by their ministry. Fellow-sufferers in the cause of [[God]] should be dear one to another. 

'''Verses''' 8-11 

Shall not we pity and [[love]] those souls whom [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] loves and pities? Those who abound in any grace, need to abound more. Try things which differ; that we may approve the things which are excellent. The truths and laws of [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] are excellent; and they recommend themselves as such to any attentive mind. Sincerity is that in which we should have our conversation in the world, and it is the [[glory]] of all our graces. [[Christians]] should not be apt to take offence, and should be very careful not to offend [[God]] or the brethren. The things which most honour [[God]] will most benefit us. Let us not leave it doubtful whether any good fruit is found in us or not. A small measure of [[Christian]] love, knowledge, and fruitfulness should not satisfy any. 

'''Verses''' 12-20 

The apostle was a prisoner at Rome; and to take off the offence of the cross, he shows the wisdom and goodness of [[God]] in his sufferings. These things made him known, where he would never have otherwise been known; and led some to inquire after the [[gospel]]. He suffered from false friends, as well as from enemies. How wretched the temper of those who preached [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] out of envy and contention, and to add affliction to the bonds that oppressed this best of men! The apostle was easy in the midst of all. Since our troubles may tend to the good of many, we ought to [[rejoice]]. Whatever turns to our [[salvation]], is by the  [[Spirit]] of Christ; and [[prayer]] is the appointed means of seeking for it. Our earnest expectation and [[hope]] should not be to be honoured of men, or to escape the cross, but to be upheld amidst temptation, contempt, and affliction. Let us leave it to [[Christ]], which way he will make us serviceable to his glory, whether by labour or suffering, by diligence or patience, by living to his honour in working for him, or dying to his honour in suffering for him. 

'''Verses''' 21-26 

Death is a great loss to a carnal, worldly man, for he loses all his earthly comforts and all his hopes; but to a true [[believer]] it is gain, for it is the end of all his weakness and misery. It delivers him from all the evils of life, and brings him to possess the chief good. The apostle's difficulty was not between living in this [[world]] and living in heaven; between these two there is no comparison; but between serving [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] in this [[world]] and enjoying him in another. Not between two evil things, but between two good things; living to [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] and being with him. See the power of [[faith]] and of [[Divine]] grace; it can make us willing to die. In this [[world]] we are compassed with sin; but when with [[Christ]], we shall escape [[sin]] and temptation, sorrow and death, for ever. But those who have most reason to desire to depart, should be willing to remain in the [[world]] as long as [[God]] has any work for them to do. And the more unexpected mercies are before they come, the more of [[God]] will be seen in them. 

'''Verses''' 27-30 

Those who profess the [[gospel]] of [[Christ]], should live as becomes those who believe [[gospel]] truths, submit to [[gospel]] laws, and depend upon [[gospel]] promises. The original word "conversation" denotes the conduct of citizens who seek the credit, safety, [[peace]], and prosperity of their city. There is that in the [[faith]] of the [[gospel]], which is worth striving for; there is much opposition, and there is need of striving. A man may sleep and go to hell; but he who would go to heaven, must look about him and be diligent. There may be oneness of [[heart]] and affection among [[Christians]], where there is diversity of judgment about many things. Faith is [[God]]'s gift on the behalf of Christ; the ability and disposition to believe are from [[God]]. And if we suffer reproach and loss for [[Christ]], we are to reckon them a gift, and prize them accordingly. Yet [[salvation]] must not be ascribed to bodily afflictions, as though afflictions and worldly persecutions deserved it; but from [[God]] only is [[salvation]]: [[faith]] and patience are his gifts.
---- 

'''Chapter''' 2 

''Chapter Outline'' 

Exhortations to a kind, humble spirit and behaviour. 

(1-4) 

The example of [[Christ]]. 

(5-11) 

Diligence in the affairs of [[salvation]], and to be examples to the world. 

(12-18) 

The apostle's purpose of visiting Philippi. 

(19-30) 

'''Verses''' 1-4 

Here are further exhortations to [[Christian]] duties; to like-mindedness and lowly-mindedness, according to the example of the [[Lord]] [[Jesus]]. Kindness is the law of [[Christ]]'s kingdom, the lesson of his school, the livery of his family. Several motives to brotherly [[love]] are mentioned. If you expect or experience the benefit of [[God]]'s compassions to yourselves, be compassionate one to another. It is the [[joy]] of ministers to see people like-minded. [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] came to humble us, let there not be among us a spirit of pride. We must be severe upon our own faults, and quick in observing our own defects, but ready to make favourable allowances for others. We must kindly care for others, but not be busy-bodies in other men's matters. Neither inward nor outward [[peace]] can be enjoyed, without lowliness of mind. 

'''Verses''' 5-11 

The example of our [[Lord]] [[Jesus Christ|Jesus Christ]] is set before us. We must resemble him in his life, if we would have the benefit of his death. Notice the two natures of Christ; his [[Divine]] nature, and human nature. Who being in the form of [[God]], partaking the [[Divine]] nature, as the eternal and only-begotten Son of [[God]], Joh 1:1, had not thought it a robbery to be equal with [[God]], and to receive [[Divine]] [[worship]] from men. His human nature; herein he became like us in all things except sin. Thus low, of his own will, he stooped from the [[glory]] he had with the Father before the [[world]] was. [[Christ]]'s two states, of humiliation and exaltation, are noticed. [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] not only took upon him the likeness and fashion, or form of a man, but of one in a low state; not appearing in splendour. His whole life was a life of poverty and suffering. But the lowest step was his dying the [[death]] of the cross, the [[death]] of a malefactor and a slave; exposed to public hatred and scorn. The exaltation was of [[Christ]]'s human nature, in union with the Divine. At the name of [[Jesus]], not the mere sound of the word, but the authority of [[Jesus]], all should pay solemn homage. It is to the [[glory]] of [[God]] the Father, to confess that [[Jesus Christ|Jesus Christ]] is [[Lord]]; for it is his will, that all men should honour the Son as they honour the Father, Joh 5:23. Here we see such motives to self-denying [[love]] as nothing else can supply. Do we thus [[love]] and obey the Son of [[God]]? 

'''Verses''' 12-18 

We must be diligent in the use of all the means which lead to our [[salvation]], persevering therein to the end. With great care, lest, with all our advantages, we should come short. Work out your [[salvation]], for it is [[God]] who worketh in you. This encourages us to do our utmost, because our labour shall not be in vain: we must still depend on the [[grace]] of [[God]]. The working of [[God]]'s [[grace]] in us, is to quicken and engage our endeavours. [[God]]'s good-will to us, is the cause of his good work in us. Do your duty without murmurings. Do it, and do not find fault with it. Mind your work, and do not quarrel with it. By [[peace]]ableness; give no just occasion of offence. The [[children]] of [[God]] should differ from the sons of men. The more perVerse others are, the more careful we should be to keep ourselves blameless and harmless. The doctrine and example of consistent [[believer]]s will enlighten others, and direct their way to [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] and [[holiness]], even as the light-house warns mariners to avoid rocks, and directs their course into the harbour. Let us try thus to shine. The [[gospel]] is the word of life, it makes known to us [[eternal life]] through [[Jesus]] [[Christ]]. Running, denotes earnestness and vigour, continual pressing forward; labouring, denotes constancy, and close application. It is the will of [[God]] that [[believer]]s should be much in rejoicing; and those who are so happy as to have good ministers, have great reason to [[rejoice]] with them. (Php 2:19-30) 

'''Verses''' 19-30 

It is best with us, when our duty becomes natural to us. Naturally, that is, sincerely, and not in pretence only; with a willing [[heart]] and upright views. We are apt to prefer our own credit, ease, and safety, before truth, [[holiness]], and duty; but Timothy did not so. [[Paul]] desired liberty, not that he might take pleasure, but that he might do good. Epaphroditus was willing to go to the Philippians, that he might be comforted with those who had sorrowed for him when he was sick. It seems, his illness was caused by the work of [[God]]. The apostle urges them to [[love]] him the more on that account. It is doubly pleasant to have our mercies restored by [[God]], after great danger of their removal; and this should make them more valued. What is given in answer to [[prayer]], should be received with great thankfulness and joy.
---- 

'''Chapter''' 3 

''Chapter Outline'' 

The apostle cautions the Philippians against judaizing false teachers, and renounces his own former privileges. 

(1-11) 

Expresses earnest desire to be found in Christ; also his pressing on toward perfection; and recommends his own example to other [[believer]]s. 

(12-21) 

'''Verses''' 1-11 

Sincere [[Christians]] [[rejoice]] in [[Jesus Christ|Christ Jesus]]. The prophet calls the false prophets dumb dogs, Isa 56:10; to which the apostle seems to refer. Dogs, for their malice against faithful professors of the [[gospel]] of [[Christ]], barking at them and biting them. They urged human works in opposition to the [[faith]] of Christ; but [[Paul]] calls them evil-workers. He calls them the concision; as they rent the [[church]] of [[Christ]], and cut it to pieces. The work of [[religion]] is to no purpose, unless the [[heart]] is in it, and we must [[worship]] [[God]] in the strength and [[grace]] of the Divine Spirit. They [[rejoice]] in [[Jesus Christ|Christ Jesus]], not in mere outward enjoyments and performances. Nor can we too earnestly guard against those who oppose or abuse the doctrine of free [[salvation]]. If the apostle would have gloried and trusted in the flesh, he had as much cause as any man. But the things which he counted gain while a Pharisee, and had reckoned up, those he counted loss for [[Christ]]. The apostle did not persuade them to do any thing but what he himself did; or to venture on any thing but that on which he himself ventured his never-dying soul. He deemed all these things to be but loss, compared with the knowledge of [[Christ]], by [[faith]] in his person and [[salvation]]. He speaks of all worldly enjoyments and outward privileges which sought a place with [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] in his heart, or could pretend to any merit and desert, and counted them but loss; but it might be said, It is easy to say so; but what would he do when he came to the trial? He had suffered the loss of all for the privileges of a [[Christian]]. Nay, he not only counted them loss, but the vilest refuse, offals thrown to dogs; not only less valuable than [[Christ]], but in the highest degree contemptible, when set up as against him. True knowledge of [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] alters and changes men, their judgments and manners, and makes them as if made again anew. The [[believer]] prefers [[Christ]], knowing that it is better for us to be without all worldly riches, than without [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] and his word. Let us see what the apostle resolved to cleave to, and that was [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] and heaven. We are undone, without righteousness wherein to appear before [[God]], for we are guilty. There is a righteousness provided for us in [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], and it is a complete and perfect righteousness. None can have benefit by it, who [[trust]] in themselves. Faith is the appointed means of applying the saving benefit. It is by [[faith]] in [[Christ]]'s blood. We are made conformable to [[Christ]]'s death, when we die to [[sin]], as he died for sin; and the [[world]] is crucified to us, and we to the world, by the cross of [[Christ]]. The apostle was willing to do or to suffer any thing, to attain the glorious resurrection of saints. This [[hope]] and prospect carried him through all difficulties in his work. He did not [[hope]] to attain it through his own merit and righteousness, but through the merit and righteousness of [[Jesus]] [[Christ]]. (Php 3:12-21) 

'''Verses''' 12-21 

This simple dependence and earnestness of soul, were not mentioned as if the apostle had gained the prize, or were already made perfect in the [[Saviour]]'s likeness. He forgot the things which were behind, so as not to be content with past labours or present measures of grace. He reached forth, stretched himself forward towards his point; expressions showing great concern to become more and more like unto [[Christ]]. He who runs a race, must never stop short of the end, but press forward as fast as he can; so those who have heaven in their view, must still press forward to it, in holy desires and hopes, and constant endeavours. Eternal life is the gift of [[God]], but it is in [[Jesus Christ|Christ Jesus]]; through his hand it must come to us, as it is procured for us by him. There is no getting to heaven as our home, but by [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] as our Way. True [[believer]]s, in seeking this assurance, as well as to glorify him, will seek more nearly to resemble his sufferings and death, by dying to [[sin]], and by crucifying the flesh with its affections and lusts. In these things there is a great difference among real [[Christians]], but all know something of them. Believers make [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] all in all, and set their hearts upon another world. If they differ from one another, and are not of the same judgment in lesser matters, yet they must not judge one another; while they all meet now in [[Christ]], and [[hope]] to meet shortly in heaven. Let them join in all the great things in which they are agreed, and wait for further light as to lesser things wherein they differ. The enemies of the cross of [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] mind nothing but their sensual appetites. Sin is the sinner's shame, especially when gloried in. The way of those who mind earthly things, may seem pleasant, but [[death]] and hell are at the end of it. If we choose their way, we shall share their end. The life of a [[Christian]] is in heaven, where his Head and his home are, and where he hopes to be shortly; he sets his affections upon things above; and where his [[heart]] is, there will his conversation be. There is [[glory]] kept for the bodies of the saints, in which they will appear at the resurrection. Then the body will be made glorious; not only raised again to life, but raised to great advantage. Observe the power by which this change will be wrought. May we be always prepared for the coming of our Judge; looking to have our vile bodies changed by his Almighty power, and applying to him daily to new-create our souls unto [[holiness]]; to deliver us from our enemies, and to employ our bodies and souls as instruments of righteousness in his service.
---- 

'''Chapter''' 4 

''Chapter Outline'' 

The apostle exhorts the Philippians to stand fast in the [[Lord]]. 

(1) 

Gives directions to some, and to all in general. 

(2-9) 

Expresses contentment in every condition of life. 

(10-19) 

He concludes with [[prayer]] to [[God]] the Father, and his usual blessing. 

(20-23) 

'''Verse''' 1 

The believing [[hope]] and prospect of [[eternal life]], should make us steady and constant in our [[Christian]] course. There is difference of gifts and graces, yet, being renewed by the same Spirit, we are brethren. To stand fast in the [[Lord]], is to stand fast in his strength, and by his grace. 

'''Verses''' 2-9 

Let [[believer]]s be of one mind, and ready to help each other. As the apostle had found the benefit of their assistance, he knew how comfortable it would be to his fellow-labourers to have the help of others. Let us seek to give assurance that our names are written in the book of life. Joy in [[God]] is of great consequence in the [[Christian]] life; and [[Christians]] need to be again and again called to it. It more than outweighs all causes for sorrow. Let their enemies perceive how moderate they were as to outward things, and how composedly they suffered loss and hardships. The day of judgment will soon arrive, with full redemption to [[believer]]s, and destruction to ungodly men. There is a care of diligence which is our duty, and agrees with a wise forecast and due concern; but there is a care of [[fear]] and distrust, which is sin and folly, and only perplexes and distracts the mind. As a remedy against perplexing care, constant [[prayer]] is recommended. Not only stated times for [[prayer]], but in every thing by [[prayer]]. We must join thanksgivings with [[prayer]]s and supplications; not only seek supplies of good, but own the mercies we have received. [[God]] needs not to be told our wants or desires; he knows them better than we do; but he will have us show that we value the [[mercy]], and feel our dependence on him. The [[peace]] of [[God]], the comfortable sense of being reconciled to [[God]], and having a part in his favour, and the [[hope]] of the heavenly blessedness, are a greater good than can be fully expressed. This [[peace]] will keep our hearts and minds through [[Jesus Christ|Christ Jesus]]; it will keep us from sinning under troubles, and from sinking under them; keep us calm and with inward satisfaction. Believers are to get and to keep a good name; a name for good things with [[God]] and good men. We should walk in all the ways of virtue, and abide therein; then, whether our praise is of men or not, it will be of [[God]]. The apostle is for an example. His doctrine and life agreed together. The way to have the [[God]] of [[peace]] with us, is to keep close to our duty. All our privileges and [[salvation]] arise in the free [[mercy]] of [[God]]; yet the enjoyment of them depends on our sincere and holy conduct. These are works of [[God]], pertaining to [[God]], and to him only are they to be ascribed, and to no other, neither men, words, nor deeds. 

'''Verses''' 10-19 

It is a good work to succour and help a good minister in trouble. The nature of true [[Christian]] sympathy, is not only to feel concern for our friends in their troubles, but to do what we can to help them. The apostle was often in bonds, imprisonments, and necessities; but in all, he learned to be content, to bring his mind to his condition, and make the best of it. Pride, unbelief, vain hankering after something we have not got, and fickle disrelish of present things, make men discontented even under favourable circumstances. Let us pray for patient submission and [[hope]] when we are abased; for humility and a heavenly mind when exalted. It is a special [[grace]] to have an equal temper of mind always. And in a low state not to lose our comfort in [[God]], nor distrust his providence, nor take any wrong course for our own supply. In a prosperous condition not to be proud, or secure, or worldly. This is a harder lesson than the other; for the [[temptations]] of fulness and prosperity are more than those of affliction and want. The apostle had no design to urge them to give more, but to encourage such kindness as will meet a glorious reward hereafter. Through [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] we have [[grace]] to do what is good, and through him we must expect the reward; and as we have all things by him, let us do all things for him, and to his glory. 

'''Verses''' 20-23 

The apostle ends with praises to [[God]]. We should look upon [[God]], under all our weakness and fears, not as an enemy, but as a Father, disposed to pity us and help us. We must give [[glory]] to [[God]] as a Father. [[God]]'s [[grace]] and favour, which reconciled souls enjoy, with the whole of the graces in us, which flow from it, are all purchased for us by [[Christ]]'s merit, and applied by his pleading for us; and therefore are justly called the [[grace]] of our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]].

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[[Category:MHC Concise Bible Commentary|Epistle to the Philippians]]