BELOVED, BE BOLD

March 11, 2022

But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables Him to subject all things to Himself, will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body. Therefore, my brothers, whom I loveG27 and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you must stand firm in the Lord, my belovedG27.

Philippians 3:20-4:1

G27 ἀγαπητός agapētós – beloved brethren, i.e. Christians

The Complete Word Study Dictionary, New Testament, Spiros Zodhiates, Ed.

4:1 On the basis of the wonderful hope which the apostle had set before the minds of the believers in the previous verse, he now exhorts them to stand fast in the Lord.

Believer’s Bible Commentary

Because Christ lived in the Philippian Christians (as He does in all believers), they would be infused to love, live, and lift each other up. Paul is encouraging those he loves with Christlike, unconditional, unchangeable love to “stand firm.” In other words, since they have the steadfast hope—confidence—of the Lord’s return and are convinced of Christ’s ability to transform their earthly bodies to become fit for their heavenly home, they can boldly live for Jesus in the here and now.  Paul describes them as beloved and as his joy and crown. As believers we should bring joy to one another. Paul had most likely led many of the Philippians to trust in Jesus. Therefore, they were his “crown” or trophy and their consistent obedience to the Lord would bring him joy.

Do you ever think about the fact that your walk with the Lord may bring joy to the person(s) who led you to faith in Christ? As you assess your behavior, would it be pleasing to that person? Would it be pleasing to the Lord? Our salvation is secure because Jesus already paid the price to redeem us from the captivity of sin. However, wouldn’t it be nice to feel like your day-to-day life brought joy to those who poured their lives into discipling—teaching—you in the ways of the Lord? Do you have a heartfelt desire to be a blessing to others and to hear from God, “Well done,”?

Father, make us a blessing to others and to You. Help us to boldly proclaim the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ being confident that He is transforming us to be citizens of Heaven rather than creatures of earth.