Philip Dampier's Blog

Chapter 4 

Chapter 4, Verse 1 “Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.”

Paul is ready to close the letter. He has covered things that were important to him as a minister of the gospel and that he deemed important to the Philippians. But this body of believers were very special to Paul, that much is obvious. He can’t just end the letter without reminding them of how special they were to him. He must express his love and his longing. The circumstances prevented him from doing so in person, but he has to let them know just what they mean to him.

Paul loves them as a father in the work of the gospel. He loved being with them and he longs to be with them again. In spite of the realities of the moment he finds only joy in his association with them. They are a joy and a crown. Whatever victory Paul might win for the gospel, his work with the Philippians stands out like a winner’s crown.

His wish, of course, is that they maintain their relationship with Christ and not be swayed by false teachers.

Task for Today: Whichever congregation of the Lord’s church you are a member of, you are beloved. If Paul wrote to you today it would be a message for you to stand firm. False prophets are still active. The Devil’s roar can still be heard in the streets. Today, hold on to the Word of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.