Wednesday, November 10, 2004

Philippians 1:4

Textus Receptus:
παντοτε εν παση δεησει μου υπερ παντων υμων μετα χαρας την δεησιν ποιουμενος

King James:
Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,

Comments:
Always...every...all: Inclusion is unmistakable in this verse. In fact, when this verse is taken with the one above it, some form of "every" or "all" is used four times. Christian behavior is constant and consistent--in other words, faithful. Prayer is ubiquitous, intercession constant, and the Christian objects of concern and compassion universal.

prayer...request: Both of these words are from the same greek word. He is describing what he is doing when he gives thanks (from verse 3). One of the ways he expresses gratitude to God when he thinks of the Philippians is by entreating God on their behalf. Prayer on behalf of others flows from a grateful Christian.

you all...with joy: Since Christian joy is not rooted in circumstance, it would be hypocritical to have joy in some believers but not others. Not every reason for joy will be coincident with every believer, but the fact that every need can be taken to God is a reason for joy when every single believer comes to mind. In other words, when there is nothing else for which to give thanks about a needy believer's life, a praying Christian can bring that person's needs to God--something for which to be thankful and in which to have joy. Chapter 4:2,4,6-7.

Paraphrase:
I think of you constantly. I entreat God for you, every one of you, constantly. And when I make those requests for you, I have peace and confidence, real joy.

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