Philippians 2:14
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Do all things without murmurings - Γογγυσμων, και διαλογισμων· Without grumblings and altercations. Be patient in, and contented with, your work; and see that ye fall not out by the way.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
murmurings--secret murmurings and complaints against your fellow men arising from selfishness: opposed to the example of Jesus just mentioned (compare the use of the word, Joh 7:12-13; Act 6:1; Pe1 4:9; Jde 1:16). disputings--The Greek is translated "doubting" in Ti1 2:8. But here referring to profitless "disputings" with our fellow men, in relation to whom we are called on to be "blameless and harmless" (Phi 2:15): so the Greek is translated, Mar 9:33-34. These disputings flow from "vain glory" reprobated (Phi 2:3); and abounded among the Aristotelian philosophers in Macedon, where Philippi was.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Do all things,.... Not evil things, these are to be abhorred, shunned, and avoided, even all appearance of them, they are not to be done, even the sake of good; nor all indifferent things at all times, and under all circumstances, when the peace and edification of others are in danger of being hurt by so doing; but all good things, all that are agreeable to the righteous law and good will of God; all those good things which accompany salvation, as hearing the word, and attendance on ordinances: all church affairs relating to public worship, private conference, everything at church meetings, and which concern the discipline and laws of Christ's house; and all things that are civilly, morally, spiritually, and evangelically good; even all things that God would have done, or we would desire should be done to us by fellow creatures and fellow Christians: let all these be done without murmurings; either against God and Christ, as if anything hard and severe was enjoined, when Christ's yoke is easy, and his burden light, Mat 11:30, and none of his commands grievous; and because their presence is not always enjoyed, and that communion and comfort in ordinances had, which may be desired: or against the ministers of the Gospel, in whose power it is not to give grace, comfort, and spiritual refreshment; any more than it was in Moses and Aaron to give bread and water to the Israelites in the wilderness, for which they murmured against them, and in so doing against God himself, Exo 16:2; or against one another, because of superior enjoyment in nature, providence, and grace; but all things, both of a moral, civil, and religious nature, with respect to God, and one another, should be done readily, freely, cheerfully, and heartily; and also without disputings; or "without hesitations", as the Vulgate Latin, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions render it. Whatever appears to be agreeable to the will of God, should be done at once without dispute upon it, or hesitation about it, however disagreeable it may be to carnal sense and reason; the will of God is not to be disputed, nor flesh and blood to be consulted, in opposition to it; nor should the saints enter into any carnal reasonings, and contentious disputations, either at their public or private meetings, but do all they do decently, and in order, and in the exercise of brotherly love.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts them in these verses to adorn their Christian profession by a suitable temper and behaviour, in several instances. 1. By a cheerful obedience to the commands of God (Phi 2:14): "Do all things, do your duty in every branch of it, without murmurings. Do it, and do not find fault with it. Mind your work, and do not quarrel with it." God's commands were given to be obeyed, not to be disputed. This greatly adorns our profession, and shows we serve a good Master, whose service is freedom and whose work is its own reward. 2. By peaceableness and love one to another. "Do all things without disputing, wrangling, and debating one another; because the light of truth and the life of religion are often lost in the heats and mists of disputation." 3. By a blameless conversation towards all men (Phi 2:15): "That you may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke; that you be not injurious to any in word or deed, and give no just occasion of offence." We should endeavour not only to be harmless, but to be blameless; not only not to do hurt, but not to come under the just suspicion of it. Blameless and sincere; so some read it. Blameless before men, sincere towards God. The sons of God. It becomes those to be blameless and harmless who stand in such a relation, and are favoured with such a privilege. The children of God should differ from the sons of men. Without rebuke - Amōmēta. Momus was a carping deity among the Greeks, mentioned by Hesiod and Lucian, who did nothing himself, and found fault with every body and every thing. From him all carpers at other men, and rigid censurers of their works, were called Momi. The sense of the expression is, "Walk so circumspectly that Momus himself may have no occasion to cavil at you, that the severest censurer may find no fault with you." We should aim and endeavour, not only to get to heaven, but to get thither without a blot; and, like Demetrius, to have a good report of all men, and of the truth, Jo3 1:12. In the midst of a crooked and perverse generation; that is, among the heathens, and those who are without. Observe, Where there is no true religion, little is to be expected but crookedness and perverseness; and the more crooked and perverse others are among whom we live, and the more apt to cavil, the more careful we should be to keep ourselves blameless and harmless. Abraham and Lot must not strive, because the Canaanite and Perizzite dwelt in the land, Gen 13:7. Among whom you shine as lights in the world. Christ is the light of the world, and good Christians are lights in the world. When God raises up a good man in any place, he sets up a light in that place. Or it may be read imperatively: Among whom shine you as lights: compare Mat 5:16, Let your light so shine before men. Christians should endeavour not only to approve themselves to God, but to recommend themselves to others, that they may also glorify God. They must shine as well as be sincere. - Holding forth the word of life, Phi 2:16. The gospel is called the word of life because it reveals and proposes to us eternal life through Jesus Christ. Life and immortality are brought to light by the gospel, Ti2 1:10. It is our duty not only to hold fast, but to hold forth the word of life; not only to hold it fast for our own benefit, but to hold it forth for the benefit of others, to hold it forth as the candlestick holds forth the candle, which makes it appear to advantage all around, or as the luminaries of the heavens, which shed their influence far and wide. This Paul tells them would be his joy: "That I may rejoice in the day of Christ; not only rejoice in your stedfastness, but in your usefulness." He would have them think his pains well bestowed, and that he had not run in vain, nor laboured in vain. Observe, (1.) The work of the ministry requires the putting forth of the whole man: all that is within us is little enough to be employed in it; as in running and labouring. Running denotes vehemence and vigour, and continual pressing forward; labour denotes constancy and close application. (2.) It is a great joy to ministers when they perceive that they have not run in vain, nor laboured in vain; and it will be their rejoicing in the day of Christ, when their converts will be their crown. What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? For you are our glory and joy, Th1 2:19, Th1 2:20. The apostle not only ran and laboured for them with satisfaction, but shows that he was ready to suffer for their good (Phi 2:17): Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy and rejoice with you all. He could reckon himself happy if he could promote the honour of Christ, the edification of the church, and the welfare of the souls of men; though it were not only by hazarding, but by laying down, his life: he could willingly be a sacrifice at their altars, to serve the faith of God's elect. Could Paul think it worth while to shed his blood for the service of the church, and shall we think it much to take a little pains? Is not that worth our labour which he thought worth his life? If I be offered, or poured out as the wine of the drink-offerings, spendomai. Ti2 4:6, I am now ready to be offered. He could rejoice to seal his doctrine with his blood (Phi 2:18): For the same cause also do you joy and rejoice with me. It is the will of God that good Christians should be much in rejoicing; and those who are happy in good ministers have a great deal of reason to joy and rejoice with them. If the minister loves the people, and is willing to spend and be spent for their welfare, the people have reason to love the minister and to joy and rejoice with him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:14 Complaining and arguing arise from self-centeredness (see 1 Cor 10:10; 1 Pet 4:9; Jude 1:16), whereas believers are called to sacrificial love (Phil 2:4).
Philippians 2:14
Lights in the World
13For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose.14Do everything without complaining or arguing, 15so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Covenant Word Ministries) Compromising Christianity
By Keith Daniel7.3K1:23:28CompromisePHP 2:14In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Philippians 4:8, which encourages believers to think on things that are true, just, honest, pure, lovely, and of good report. The preacher challenges both young and older people to be mindful of the media they consume, such as music, magazines, and television programs. He emphasizes the importance of aligning one's thoughts with God's standards and warns against being influenced by evil and depraved content. The sermon also emphasizes the power of God's word in transforming and discerning the thoughts and intents of the heart.
A Golden Prayer
By C.H. Spurgeon6.8K53:14ISA 42:8MAT 6:33JHN 12:13JHN 12:28ROM 8:28PHP 2:141PE 5:7The sermon transcript discusses the inner conflicts and troubles of Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the complexity of Jesus' person and the need to approach the topic with caution and reverence. The sermon also highlights the notable miracle of Lazarus' resurrection and the popularity Jesus gained as a result. The transcript concludes with a call to glorify God's name in the past, present, and future.
(The Power of the Holy Spirit - 2) Rivers of Living Water
By Zac Poonen2.7K59:56PHP 2:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the belief that the power of the Holy Spirit is only for advanced Christians is a misconception perpetuated by the devil. The speaker refers to the story of Moses striking the rock at Horeb, which is seen as a picture of Christ in the New Testament. The speaker also mentions Jesus' teachings on the Holy Spirit before his ascension, highlighting the importance of waiting for the Holy Spirit's empowerment before sharing the gospel. The sermon concludes with the speaker's personal journey of seeking the Holy Spirit's power to overcome spiritual dryness and live a life without complaining.
Bound Believers
By Bill McLeod2.0K40:31PHP 2:14In this sermon, the speaker shares stories of Christians who were converted to faith in Jesus even while facing persecution and death. He emphasizes the power of their testimony and the way they pointed to heaven even when they couldn't speak. The speaker then discusses the comforting and frightening aspect of God's constant watch over both the righteous and the evil. He shares a personal story of a father who repented and sought forgiveness for failing his son, and how their relationship was eventually restored through their shared interest in archery. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God disciplines those he loves and calls them to turn away from sin, and the impact that parents' actions can have on their children.
Questions and Answers (Dutch)
By Zac Poonen1.6K1:42:15JHN 14:17ACT 1:5ROM 8:2EPH 4:31PHP 2:141JN 2:2REV 3:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of continuous repentance and the progression in the Christian life, highlighting the need to walk in the light, repent daily, and be filled with the Holy Spirit to overcome sin. It explains the difference between being married to the law and being married to Christ, where the law of the Spirit inside us fulfills the righteous requirement of the law. The message also addresses the need for faith to receive from Christ, the ongoing repentance in the victorious life, and the significance of yielding every area of our lives to Jesus for the Holy Spirit to fill us completely.
(Through the Bible) Philippians 2
By Chuck Smith1.6K35:25MAT 20:261CO 10:24PHP 2:3PHP 2:14PHP 2:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the humility and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He describes how Jesus, who was equal with God, willingly emptied himself and took on the form of a servant, ultimately humbling himself to the point of death on a cross. The speaker encourages the audience to have the same mindset as Christ, considering the needs of others and esteeming them above themselves. He also criticizes the use of competition and vain glory in the church, emphasizing the importance of serving others instead. The sermon concludes with a reminder that one day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, but it is crucial to make this confession now for salvation.
I Can't Take It
By Jim Cymbala1.6K29:06FaithGEN 12:1GEN 15:18EXO 12:23MAT 6:331CO 10:61CO 10:10PHP 2:14In this sermon, Pastor Symbol emphasizes the importance of shining as believers by doing everything without complaining or arguing. He acknowledges that this is not an easy task, but highlights the primacy of faith in trusting God's promises. The sermon references the story of the twelve spies who were sent to explore the land of Israel and their report on the challenges they faced. This report ultimately had a significant impact on the history of the Israelites.
(The Church and Satans Wiles) 4 - Free From Discontentment
By Zac Poonen1.5K1:10:20MAT 7:1MAT 12:36MAT 22:39PHP 2:5PHP 2:14HEB 2:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God in a simple and understandable manner. He shares how he personally checks with children if they understood his message, and if they don't, he feels the need to simplify it further. The preacher warns that if we cannot communicate the message of God effectively to children, we will fail in our purpose on earth. He also highlights the danger of seeking our own desires and urges listeners to be content with what God has given them. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that the work of Jesus continues through his spiritual body, the church, and that each individual has a role to play in spreading the gospel.
A Thankful Heart
By Chuck Smith1.2K25:06HeartEXO 16:2ACT 16:231CO 10:10EPH 5:20PHP 2:14COL 3:151TH 5:18In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of giving thanks in all circumstances. He shares stories from the Bible, such as Paul and Silas praising God in prison and Daniel giving thanks despite facing discrimination. Pastor Chuck also highlights Jesus as our ultimate example of giving thanks, as he gave thanks before feeding the multitude and at the Last Supper. The message encourages listeners to develop a habit of gratitude and to trust that good can come out of any situation when we choose to give thanks.
A Time for Everything
By Keith Daniel1.1K56:28TimeDEU 28:47PRO 19:11PHP 2:141PE 2:19JUD 1:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the destructive power of one sentence spoken by a carnal Christian. He warns against being a tail bearer or gossip, as revealing secrets can cause great harm. The preacher shares a story about a man who had to learn to be a husband again after being in prison, highlighting the importance of grace and love in marriage. He also emphasizes the need for self-discipline in controlling our words, as the tongue has the power to defile the whole body. The preacher references several Bible verses, including Ecclesiastes 3:1 and James 3, to support his teachings on the importance of silence, self-control, and avoiding sinful speech.
The Lord Can Present Us Perfect (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.1K56:31GEN 3:1JOS 21:45PSA 133:1ISA 43:25MAT 6:331CO 13:12EPH 4:3PHP 2:14JUD 1:24REV 22:21This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God, trusting in His promises, and maintaining unity in the body of Christ. It highlights the need to overcome doubt, grumbling, and complaining by believing in God's faithfulness and seeking unity in fellowship. The speaker encourages humility, love, and faith in God's ability to keep us from falling, presenting us blameless before Him.
The Christian Work Ethic
By Eric Ludy1.1K1:12:17Christian LifeGEN 1:31MAT 6:33EPH 4:29EPH 6:7PHP 2:14COL 3:231PE 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a strong work ethic as Christians. He highlights four key principles: having faith in Jesus as our Savior, joyfully serving in God's kingdom, being submissive to God's word and leading, and staying focused and alert in our tasks. The speaker also references the story of Andrew Summers Rowan, who was given a difficult mission but accomplished it without questioning or complaining. The sermon encourages believers to approach their work with excellence, integrity, and gratitude, whether it is in the business world, ministry, or family life.
Purification for Sins
By Matthew Maxwell-Carr1.0K46:01PurificationMAT 6:33PHP 2:14HEB 1:1HEB 1:4HEB 9:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the book of Hebrews and highlights the greatness and superiority of the Son of God. The Son is described as the heir of all things, the agent through whom God made the universe, and the one who obtained eternal redemption through his death. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus' death cleanses our consciences and leads to faithful service to God. Additionally, the Son is shown to be superior to angels and is seated at the right hand of God in heaven.
Ye Are the Salt of the Earth
By Aaron Hurst8911:15:28HolinessPHP 2:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living out the teachings of the Bible rather than just speaking about them. He urges those who are wealthy to not be arrogant or rely on their riches, but to trust in God and use their resources to do good and help others. The preacher also highlights the significance of being a witness for Christ by being salt and light in the world. He encourages believers to let their actions and lives reflect the power of a resurrected life and to bring the Gospel to others through their words and deeds.
Key Words in Philippians 02 the Word "Joy"
By David Clifford73448:37PHP 1:25PHP 2:14PHP 2:16PHP 3:1PHP 4:1PHP 4:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer and its connection to evangelism. He highlights the joy that comes from both praying and evangelizing, as they are both works that bring joy and allow us to see God's work in saving souls. The preacher also discusses the theme of union with Christ, which is a major theme in the writings of the apostle Paul. He encourages the listeners to pray with belief, following the gospel way of asking and receiving, and to rejoice in the Lord. The sermon concludes with the preacher expressing his expectation of joy in seeing the oneness of the believers, their blamelessness, and their witness.
Key Words in Philippians 05 the Word "Obedience"
By David Clifford72345:29PHP 2:14In this sermon, the preacher starts by describing a gathering where the ladies sang and danced, expressing their joy and praise to the Lord. However, the atmosphere changed when one woman began backbiting and criticizing, and she was struck by electricity as a consequence. The preacher then shifts the focus to the disciples and their singing, possibly referencing parts of Psalm 113-118. The sermon emphasizes the importance of not only preaching the word of God but also living a balanced and humble life, exemplifying Christ's selflessness. The preacher concludes by highlighting that while salvation is a finished work through Christ's sacrifice, it is also an ongoing process that should be outwardly manifested in our lives.
Indian Orientation (Kathmandu)
By George Verwer70857:33MissionsEXO 17:12PHP 2:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of accepting the decisions of leaders and not panicking in times of trouble. They also highlight the need to have prayer partners and to seek clarification from leaders rather than grumbling or complaining. The speaker encourages the audience to have a vision and goals, particularly in the context of missionary work, and emphasizes the sacrifice and hardships that may come with it. The ultimate goal is to reach millions of people with the message of Christ, demonstrating that Christianity works through love and problem-solving.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 13
By Zac Poonen67025:07MAT 5:9PHP 2:14This sermon delves into the often neglected part of the Great Commission in Matthew 28:20, emphasizing the importance of making disciples who follow Jesus completely and teaching them to obey His commands. It focuses on the significance of being peacemakers, seeking peace in a world filled with conflict and darkness, and the blessings of being called sons of God. The sermon also highlights the inevitability of persecution for those who stand for righteousness and unashamedly proclaim their faith in Jesus Christ, encouraging believers to rejoice and be glad in the midst of persecution.
In Nothing Be Anxious; but in Everything by Prayer
By Hans R. Waldvogel63136:51PrayerGEN 15:12CH 16:9PSA 2:12PSA 20:7PSA 31:19PSA 34:22PSA 37:24PSA 125:1ISA 26:3ISA 40:26MAT 6:33PHP 2:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of learning from our experiences rather than complaining. He encourages the audience to do all things without murmuring and disputing. The preacher reminds them that nothing can come their way without the appointment of God, who has loved them since before the foundation of the world. He urges them to lift up their eyes and behold the wonders of creation, as a reminder that God has not forgotten them. The sermon also emphasizes the need to trust in God and seek to know Him, as well as the importance of having a heart that is perfect toward Him. The preacher highlights the power of God to fulfill His promises and encourages the audience to have faith in Him.
Being a Witness to Satan
By Zac Poonen6311:10:08PSA 37:25MAT 11:25EPH 3:9EPH 5:18PHP 2:141TH 5:23HEB 13:5JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God's wisdom and understanding the mystery hidden in God, which is now revealed through the Holy Spirit. It challenges Christians to seek God in their spirit, not just with their minds, and to know God deeply through humility and seeking His interests above their own. The sermon highlights the significance of being a righteous person, content with what God provides, and being filled with the Holy Spirit to live a life that is a testimony before Satan and glorifies God.
Understanding Authority (Part 3)
By Paul Lloyd6081:10:23AuthorityMAT 6:33JHN 5:25ACT 5:29PHP 2:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the topic of understanding authority and dealing with difficulties in a Christ-like way. He emphasizes that we live in a fallen world and face various challenges due to our own fallen nature. The speaker highlights the importance of having good attitudes when making appeals to authority, as a bad attitude can hinder the success of the request. He uses the example of Daniel and his friends who made an appeal to not defile themselves with the king's food, and how their good attitudes led to God's favor and blessings upon them.
The House of God Lies in Ruin - Evidences of True Repentance
By Phil Beach Jr.57140:00RepentanceMAT 6:33PHP 2:14In this sermon, the speaker warns against being deceived and corrupted by the self-centered mindset of the world. He emphasizes that our chief goal in life should not be to focus on what is best for ourselves, but rather to seek God's will. The Gentiles and the world make decisions based on factors like money, comfort, security, and recognition, but the speaker challenges the audience to consider where God fits into this equation. He encourages true repentance and a desire to clear ourselves from wrongdoing, using examples like Zacchaeus who repented and returned what he had taken unjustly. The speaker urges the audience not to be seduced by the corrupt world and reminds them to do all things without murmuring and disputing, striving to be blameless and harmless.
When God Is Silent
By Sandeep Poonen56729:37GEN 1:3PSA 46:10ISA 30:15ZEP 3:17MAT 16:24PHP 2:14HEB 3:19HEB 4:9JAS 4:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing God as a speaking God and understanding the significance of His silence. It delves into the concept of living in God's love and responding to His words, drawing parallels from Genesis chapter one where God's spoken word brought creation into existence. The message highlights the need to obey God's spoken word, remove pride, and embrace a life of humility and faith, ultimately leading to a deep rest in God's silent love.
The Driving Power of Discontentment
By Carter Conlon38558:04DiscontentmentEPH 3:8PHP 2:14PHP 4:6PHP 4:9PHP 4:11In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of discontentment and its prevalence in society. He references Philippians 4:9, where the Apostle Paul encourages believers to imitate his example and experience the peace of God. The preacher emphasizes that he has learned to be content in any situation, whether in abundance or in lack. He highlights how marketing often caters to people's discontentment, perpetuating a cycle of dissatisfaction. The sermon concludes with a prayer for those struggling with discontentment and a call to surrender to God and find fulfillment in Him.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 145
By Don Courville35025:59Radio ShowACT 14:22PHP 2:141TH 3:21PE 2:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of truly desiring Jesus Christ in our lives. He warns against playing games with God and challenges listeners to examine their hearts and determine if Jesus is truly all they want. The preacher shares personal experiences of facing opposition and attacks from Satan, but also recognizes that these trials are evidence of God making headway in their lives. He quotes from 1 Thessalonians 3:3 to remind listeners of the potential for their labor in the Lord to be in vain if they succumb to temptation. The preacher concludes by highlighting the need for believers to be identified with Jesus Christ and to endure suffering and crushing in order to bring out the beautiful fragrance of Jesus in their lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Do all things without murmurings - Γογγυσμων, και διαλογισμων· Without grumblings and altercations. Be patient in, and contented with, your work; and see that ye fall not out by the way.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
murmurings--secret murmurings and complaints against your fellow men arising from selfishness: opposed to the example of Jesus just mentioned (compare the use of the word, Joh 7:12-13; Act 6:1; Pe1 4:9; Jde 1:16). disputings--The Greek is translated "doubting" in Ti1 2:8. But here referring to profitless "disputings" with our fellow men, in relation to whom we are called on to be "blameless and harmless" (Phi 2:15): so the Greek is translated, Mar 9:33-34. These disputings flow from "vain glory" reprobated (Phi 2:3); and abounded among the Aristotelian philosophers in Macedon, where Philippi was.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Do all things,.... Not evil things, these are to be abhorred, shunned, and avoided, even all appearance of them, they are not to be done, even the sake of good; nor all indifferent things at all times, and under all circumstances, when the peace and edification of others are in danger of being hurt by so doing; but all good things, all that are agreeable to the righteous law and good will of God; all those good things which accompany salvation, as hearing the word, and attendance on ordinances: all church affairs relating to public worship, private conference, everything at church meetings, and which concern the discipline and laws of Christ's house; and all things that are civilly, morally, spiritually, and evangelically good; even all things that God would have done, or we would desire should be done to us by fellow creatures and fellow Christians: let all these be done without murmurings; either against God and Christ, as if anything hard and severe was enjoined, when Christ's yoke is easy, and his burden light, Mat 11:30, and none of his commands grievous; and because their presence is not always enjoyed, and that communion and comfort in ordinances had, which may be desired: or against the ministers of the Gospel, in whose power it is not to give grace, comfort, and spiritual refreshment; any more than it was in Moses and Aaron to give bread and water to the Israelites in the wilderness, for which they murmured against them, and in so doing against God himself, Exo 16:2; or against one another, because of superior enjoyment in nature, providence, and grace; but all things, both of a moral, civil, and religious nature, with respect to God, and one another, should be done readily, freely, cheerfully, and heartily; and also without disputings; or "without hesitations", as the Vulgate Latin, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions render it. Whatever appears to be agreeable to the will of God, should be done at once without dispute upon it, or hesitation about it, however disagreeable it may be to carnal sense and reason; the will of God is not to be disputed, nor flesh and blood to be consulted, in opposition to it; nor should the saints enter into any carnal reasonings, and contentious disputations, either at their public or private meetings, but do all they do decently, and in order, and in the exercise of brotherly love.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts them in these verses to adorn their Christian profession by a suitable temper and behaviour, in several instances. 1. By a cheerful obedience to the commands of God (Phi 2:14): "Do all things, do your duty in every branch of it, without murmurings. Do it, and do not find fault with it. Mind your work, and do not quarrel with it." God's commands were given to be obeyed, not to be disputed. This greatly adorns our profession, and shows we serve a good Master, whose service is freedom and whose work is its own reward. 2. By peaceableness and love one to another. "Do all things without disputing, wrangling, and debating one another; because the light of truth and the life of religion are often lost in the heats and mists of disputation." 3. By a blameless conversation towards all men (Phi 2:15): "That you may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke; that you be not injurious to any in word or deed, and give no just occasion of offence." We should endeavour not only to be harmless, but to be blameless; not only not to do hurt, but not to come under the just suspicion of it. Blameless and sincere; so some read it. Blameless before men, sincere towards God. The sons of God. It becomes those to be blameless and harmless who stand in such a relation, and are favoured with such a privilege. The children of God should differ from the sons of men. Without rebuke - Amōmēta. Momus was a carping deity among the Greeks, mentioned by Hesiod and Lucian, who did nothing himself, and found fault with every body and every thing. From him all carpers at other men, and rigid censurers of their works, were called Momi. The sense of the expression is, "Walk so circumspectly that Momus himself may have no occasion to cavil at you, that the severest censurer may find no fault with you." We should aim and endeavour, not only to get to heaven, but to get thither without a blot; and, like Demetrius, to have a good report of all men, and of the truth, Jo3 1:12. In the midst of a crooked and perverse generation; that is, among the heathens, and those who are without. Observe, Where there is no true religion, little is to be expected but crookedness and perverseness; and the more crooked and perverse others are among whom we live, and the more apt to cavil, the more careful we should be to keep ourselves blameless and harmless. Abraham and Lot must not strive, because the Canaanite and Perizzite dwelt in the land, Gen 13:7. Among whom you shine as lights in the world. Christ is the light of the world, and good Christians are lights in the world. When God raises up a good man in any place, he sets up a light in that place. Or it may be read imperatively: Among whom shine you as lights: compare Mat 5:16, Let your light so shine before men. Christians should endeavour not only to approve themselves to God, but to recommend themselves to others, that they may also glorify God. They must shine as well as be sincere. - Holding forth the word of life, Phi 2:16. The gospel is called the word of life because it reveals and proposes to us eternal life through Jesus Christ. Life and immortality are brought to light by the gospel, Ti2 1:10. It is our duty not only to hold fast, but to hold forth the word of life; not only to hold it fast for our own benefit, but to hold it forth for the benefit of others, to hold it forth as the candlestick holds forth the candle, which makes it appear to advantage all around, or as the luminaries of the heavens, which shed their influence far and wide. This Paul tells them would be his joy: "That I may rejoice in the day of Christ; not only rejoice in your stedfastness, but in your usefulness." He would have them think his pains well bestowed, and that he had not run in vain, nor laboured in vain. Observe, (1.) The work of the ministry requires the putting forth of the whole man: all that is within us is little enough to be employed in it; as in running and labouring. Running denotes vehemence and vigour, and continual pressing forward; labour denotes constancy and close application. (2.) It is a great joy to ministers when they perceive that they have not run in vain, nor laboured in vain; and it will be their rejoicing in the day of Christ, when their converts will be their crown. What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? For you are our glory and joy, Th1 2:19, Th1 2:20. The apostle not only ran and laboured for them with satisfaction, but shows that he was ready to suffer for their good (Phi 2:17): Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy and rejoice with you all. He could reckon himself happy if he could promote the honour of Christ, the edification of the church, and the welfare of the souls of men; though it were not only by hazarding, but by laying down, his life: he could willingly be a sacrifice at their altars, to serve the faith of God's elect. Could Paul think it worth while to shed his blood for the service of the church, and shall we think it much to take a little pains? Is not that worth our labour which he thought worth his life? If I be offered, or poured out as the wine of the drink-offerings, spendomai. Ti2 4:6, I am now ready to be offered. He could rejoice to seal his doctrine with his blood (Phi 2:18): For the same cause also do you joy and rejoice with me. It is the will of God that good Christians should be much in rejoicing; and those who are happy in good ministers have a great deal of reason to joy and rejoice with them. If the minister loves the people, and is willing to spend and be spent for their welfare, the people have reason to love the minister and to joy and rejoice with him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:14 Complaining and arguing arise from self-centeredness (see 1 Cor 10:10; 1 Pet 4:9; Jude 1:16), whereas believers are called to sacrificial love (Phil 2:4).