Philippians 4:4–6

Context

Philippians is a letter that Paul wrote while imprisoned to the church he had founded at Philippi. The place of imprisonment is traditionally identified as Rome, though some scholars propose Ephesus or Caesarea. The word "joy" recurs throughout the letter, and this passage belongs to the closing exhortations that bring that theme to a conclusion. Immediately before it, in 4:2–3, Paul urges Euodia and Syntyche, two women who had been at odds, to be of the same mind. The passage is followed by verse 7, which speaks of "the peace of God" keeping the hearts and minds of believers.

Interpretation

• The ground of joy: Many commentators draw attention to the phrase "in the Lord." They understand this joy not as a feeling that shifts with circumstances but as a disposition rooted in one's relationship with Christ, and they see the fact that these words come from a prisoner as support for this interpretation.
• The meaning of "moderation": The Greek word (epieikēs) denotes a gentleness and graciousness that does not insist on one's own rights. For this reason, many modern translations render it with a word closer to "gentleness" or "graciousness." Many interpreters connect it with the conflict within the church mentioned just before.
• Two readings of "The Lord is at hand": One reading takes the phrase in a temporal sense, meaning that the Second Coming is near. The other takes it in the sense of presence, meaning that the Lord is with believers now. Some commentators hold that both meanings are intended.
• The language of prayer: In verse 6, "prayer," "supplication," and "requests" are overlapping near-synonyms. The common interpretation is that Paul emphasizes not so much the requests themselves as the attitude of making them known "with thanksgiving."

Questions of Application

There is little difference in interpretation among denominations. However, concerns have been raised about citing "Be careful for nothing" to treat anxiety or depression as a lack of faith. In the field of Christian counseling, some argue that the verse should be read not as a rebuke to those who worry but as an invitation to bring one's worries to God.

In the Korean Church

The passage is often cited in sermons on thanksgiving and joy, especially Thanksgiving sermons. Together with 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, it is also widely used for Scripture memorization.

Related Passages

• Philippians 4:11–13
• Matthew 6:24–34
• 1 Peter 5:7
• 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
• John 14:27