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Philippians 4:10-23
10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I am, to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. 22 All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar's household.
23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
Watch the Sermon
Summary: In this final passage of Philippians, Paul rejoices in the church’s generosity in partnering with him in his missionary endeavors and expresses his gratitude. Yet he uses the discussion of financial resources as an opportunity to reveal the heart of true contentment. Though Paul is well supplied, his greater joy comes from the fruit—or credit—that the Philippians will receive for supporting his work. This heavenly mindset is only possible when one learns the secret of contentment in both difficulties and blessings, namely, the anchor—Christ Himself. May we learn to place our treasures in Christ and His kingdom, where moth and rust do not destroy, for there our hearts will be also.
Review & Apply
How would you define contentment? How does this passage challenge your understanding of being content?
Why does Paul say he "learned" how to be brought low and how to abound? Why would both of these circumstances require contentment?
How is the gospel displayed when the people of God support missionaries?
How does the immediate context help us understand Paul's often quoted statement in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me"?
What is one takeaway you have from our study through the book of Philippians?
Give
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