Philippians 2:15
Verse
Context
Lights in the World
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 world16as you hold forth the word of life, in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.
Sermons
Alan Redpath
Keith DanielKeith Daniel
Erlo StegenKeith Daniel
Jim CymbalaSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
That ye may be blameless - In yourselves, and harmless to others. The sons of God - Showing by your holy conduct that ye are partakers of the Divine nature. Without rebuke - Persons against whom no charge of transgression can justly be laid. A crooked and perverse - Probably referring to the Jews, who were the chief opponents and the most virulent enemies which the Christian Church had. Among whom ye shine - Be like the sun and moon; bless even the perverse and disobedient by your light and splendor. Let your light shine before men; some will walk in that light, and by its shining God will be glorified. It is evident that the apostle, by φωστῃρες εν κοσμῳ, lights in the world, refers to the sun and moon particularly, and perhaps to the heavenly bodies in general.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
blameless and harmless--without either the repute of mischief, or the inclination to do it [ALFORD]. sons--rather as Greek, "the children of God" (Rom 8:14-16). Imitation of our heavenly Father is the instinctive guide to our duty as His children, more than any external law (Mat 5:44-45, Mat 5:48). without rebuke--"without (giving handle for) reproach." The whole verse tacitly refers by contrast to Deu 32:5, "Their spot . . . not . . . of His children . . . a perverse and crooked generation" (compare Pe1 2:12). ye shine--literally, "appear" [TRENCH]. "Show yourselves" (compare Mat 5:14-16; Eph 5:8-13). as lights in the world--The Greek expresses "as luminaries in the world," as the sun and moon, "the lights," or "great lights," in the material world or in the firmament. The Septuagint uses the very same Greek word in the passage, Gen 1:14, Gen 1:16; compare Note,, see on Rev 21:11.
John Gill Bible Commentary
That ye may be blameless,.... This, and what follows, show the end to be answered, by observing the above exhortation. This respects not their being blameless in the sight of God, which the saints are not in themselves, being not without sin, though they are, as considered in Christ, clothed with his righteousness, and washed in his blood; but their being blameless before men: and this may be understood both actively and passively; actively, that they might be without blaming others; some are so unhappy in their disposition and conduct, as to be always finding fault with, and blaming all persons they are concerned with, and all things in them, and done by them, right or wrong, without any just reason; and this ought not to be, and may be prevented by doing all things, as before directed: or passively, that they might not be blamed by others justly; for no man can escape the blame and censure of everyone; our Lord himself did not, nor this our apostle; but doing, as before exhorted to, will, in a great measure, preclude any just reason for blame and complaint: it is added, and harmless; that is, that they might be, and appear to be so; harmless as doves, in imitation of Christ, who was holy in his nature, and harmless in his conversation, as his followers should be; doing no injury to any man's person or property, behaving in an inoffensive manner to all men, to Jew and Gentile, and to the church of God: it follows, the sons of God; not that they might be sons by so doing; but be "as the sons of God", as the Syriac version renders it, be like them, and behave as such; for they were the sons of God already; not by creation only, as angels, and all men are, not merely by profession of religion, but by adopting grace; they were predestinated to the adoption of children, and were taken into this relation in the covenant of grace, Christ had redeemed them from under the law, that they might receive this blessing, and it was actually bestowed upon them by him in conversion: but the sense is, that they might appear to be the children of God, by acting as becomes such; not that they might appear so to themselves, for they were openly and manifestly to themselves the children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus, and through the testimony of the Spirit, witnessing to their spirits that they were in such a relation to God; but that they might appear so to others, that they were the adopted sons of God, and also begotten again by him, and made partakers of the divine nature; by their being followers of God as dear children, and by their being obedient ones to him in all holiness and godly conversation, yielding a ready and cheerful obedience to his will, without repining at it, or disputing about it; and to be without rebuke; not without the rebuke of their heavenly Father, for whom he loves he rebukes, and every son that he receives into his family he scourges and chastises, not in wrath and anger, or with rebukes of fury, but of love; but without the rebuke of men, both of the churches and ministers of Christ, whose business it is to reprove and rebuke, publicly and privately, as cases and their circumstances require; and of the men of the world, who when they have any occasion, make use of it to speak reproachfully, as a railing Rabshakeh did, when it is a time of rebuke and blasphemy, and to be shunned and guarded against as much possible: especially since the saints live in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation: or age and generation, as every age is; saints are like lilies in the valleys, liable to be trampled upon by the foot of every wild beast; like roses among thorns, to be scratched and torn; and like Lots in the midst of Sodom, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: the whole world lies in sin, and the saints are enclosed on every side with wicked men. Philippi, where these saints lived, was a place of wickedness, and so no doubt was the whole region of Macedonia; the inhabitants were evil for the most part; their ways were crooked, and their works perverse, being contrary to the law of God, and Gospel of Christ; and therefore the following exhortation to the saints there was very suitable, Among whom ye shine; or "shine ye", as it may be rendered, as lights in the world. This world is, in a moral sense, what the original chaos was in a natural sense, covered with darkness; the darkness of ignorance and unbelief, of impiety and superstition, has spread itself over the far greater part of the world; the men of it are children of the night, and of darkness; their works are works of darkness, and they are going on in darkness, not knowing where they are going. The saints are the lights of the world, they were once darkness itself, but are made light in and by the Lord; they are called into marvellous light, and are filled with light spiritual and evangelical; they are like the moon and stars, that give light to the world in the night; and as they receive their light from the sun, and communicate it to the world, so do the saints receive theirs from Christ, the sun of righteousness, and show it forth to others, both by doctrine and practice: or rather the churches of Christ are as candlesticks, in which the light of the Gospel is put, and held forth to men, as follows, see Mat 5:14.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:15 shining like bright lights: Believers are to draw people to God by their lives (see Matt 5:13-16). • in a world full of crooked and perverse people: See Deut 32:5; Rom 1:18-32; 3:10-23.
Philippians 2:15
Lights in the World
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 world16as you hold forth the word of life, in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(1 Peter - Part 22): Our Walk in the Presence of the Unsaved
By A.W. Tozer22K35:14UnsavedMAT 5:16MAT 6:331CO 10:31PHP 2:151TI 4:12JAS 2:171PE 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living an honest and upright life among non-believers. He highlights that God never gives us instructions to live without Him, and that His precepts are meant to be applied in different situations and contexts. The preacher encourages listeners to understand that the Bible provides broad principles of right living, but the specific application of those principles is determined by individual circumstances. The sermon is based on 1 Peter 2:12, which urges believers to have an honest conversation and conduct among Gentiles, so that their good works may glorify God.
(Sermon Preparation) Lecture 01
By Alan Redpath8.1K42:47Sermon PreparationMAT 5:14MAT 6:33JHN 8:121CO 11:23PHP 2:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering that the gospel of Christ is primarily addressed to individuals and its ultimate goal is the salvation of multitudes. The church has various agencies to help lead people to Christ, but its primary purpose is to nurture the individual. The preacher warns against forgetting this and reproducing the same mistake in oneself. The sermon also touches on the importance of personal transformation and being a light in the world, as well as the significance of being trained for the job of preaching and reflecting the glory of God into the darkness of the world.
Are You a Soul Winner
By Keith Daniel4.8K48:22Soul WinningPRO 11:30MAT 28:192CO 5:17PHP 2:15In this sermon, Brother Denny shares his personal testimony of his father's transformation through God's grace. He describes how his father, who was once broken and miserable, turned to alcohol to cope with his sorrows. However, in one moment, his father was completely delivered and filled with joy and peace through God's salvation. This transformation had a profound impact on Brother Denny and his family, leading them to realize the reality and permanence of God's work in their lives. Brother Denny emphasizes that when we are in Christ and experience this transformation, we are given the ministry of reconciliation and the responsibility to share the message of salvation with others.
(Montana) Daniel
By Keith Daniel4.5K53:35DanielGEN 39:3PRO 22:1DAN 1:8DAN 6:10MAT 6:33PHP 2:151PE 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer and thanksgiving in the life of a believer. He highlights the example of Daniel, who prayed and gave thanks to God three times a day, even in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation. The speaker challenges the audience to examine their own commitment to God and asks if the world knows that they are faithful followers of Jesus. He encourages them to be blameless and shine as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life. The speaker concludes by urging the audience to start applying the teachings they have heard and to choose God's best for their lives.
A Godly Example
By Erlo Stegen3.9K21:11Living WorthyMAT 5:161CO 10:31EPH 5:3PHP 2:151TI 4:12TIT 2:71PE 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being a good example, especially to young people. He mentions a survey conducted in American jails, which found that over 90% of serial killers admitted to using pornography when they were young. The preacher urges the congregation to set a clear pattern of integrity and to be a positive influence on both believers and unbelievers. He also highlights the alarming statistics of the pornographic industry, stating that the average age of those involved is 11 years old. The sermon concludes with Bible verses encouraging young people to be examples in speech, life, love, faith, and purity.
Have You Turned From a Life of Sin?
By Keith Daniel3.2K49:01Living In SinNUM 32:23MAT 7:19MAT 7:21ACT 17:302CO 5:17PHP 2:151TI 4:16In this sermon, Keith Daniel shares a personal experience of encountering a tramp and sharing the word of God with him. He emphasizes the importance of sharing the scriptures with others, regardless of their circumstances. Keith also recounts a frightening incident where he and a companion were chased by a dog and sought refuge in a stranger's house. The sermon concludes with Keith reflecting on the need for young preachers to have both passion and wisdom in their ministry.
Do People Get You Down?
By Jim Cymbala2.6K43:38DiscouragementMAT 6:331CO 10:122CO 6:14PHP 2:12PHP 2:152TI 4:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of people turning away from their faith and the dangers of being influenced by the world. He uses the example of Demis, a trusted minister who abandoned Paul and the teachings of Christ. The preacher emphasizes the importance of staying focused on Jesus and not being distracted by the actions of others. He encourages the audience to be the true representatives of Christianity through their attitudes and interactions with others. The sermon concludes with a reminder that each individual is responsible for their own salvation and should not be swayed by the actions of others.
(Happenings Ahead) the Demands of the Last Days
By Willie Mullan1.5K1:13:52Last DaysMAT 5:16MRK 16:15ROM 13:11EPH 5:8PHP 2:151TH 5:2TIT 2:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the dangers of unbelief in the last days. He emphasizes the urgency of accepting Jesus' invitation to come to him for salvation, as the opportunity may be lost in the future. The preacher also highlights the need for Christians to actively spread the gospel and not be complacent in their faith. He references 2 Timothy 3, which describes the characteristics of people in the last days, and warns against having a form of godliness without true faith. The sermon concludes with a call to action for the congregation to wake up and live according to the teachings of Jesus.
The Way of Humility (謙卑的道路)
By Zac Poonen1.3K1:09:03ChineseMAT 6:33MAT 7:1LUK 16:151CO 10:31GAL 1:10PHP 2:3PHP 2:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of unity in the church. He highlights four key elements of unity: having the same mind, love, spirit, and purpose. The preacher then explains that the way to achieve this unity is by adopting the same attitude as Jesus Christ, who humbled himself and sacrificed his own position for the sake of others. The preacher also emphasizes the need to avoid judging others and seeking to please men, as these attitudes hinder our ability to serve Christ. Finally, the preacher encourages the congregation to become like little children, free from selfishness and grudges, in order to truly experience the message of Jesus Christ.
Falling Stars - a Message for Preachers
By Erlo Stegen1.1K57:42EXO 33:15MAT 5:14JHN 8:12ROM 8:191CO 9:24PHP 2:151TH 5:52TI 3:11PE 2:9REV 12:4This sermon reflects on the encounter of the two disciples with the Lord Jesus on the road to Emmaus, drawing parallels between the approaching darkness in the world and the need for Jesus to abide with us. It emphasizes the importance of not being sidetracked by worldly distractions and the necessity of seeking God's presence amidst the increasing darkness in the world. The message underscores the significance of repentance, removing sin, and striving for unity among believers to invite God's presence and revival.
Learn Not the Way of the Heathen - Part 1
By Joshua Daniel73628:30JER 10:2MAT 6:3ROM 12:21CO 10:312CO 6:17GAL 6:9PHP 2:15JAS 4:41PE 2:9
This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of not following the ways of the world but instead staying true to God's teachings. He warns against adopting the abominable practices of the heathen and highlights the need for Christians to maintain a distinct and righteous lifestyle. The message calls for a deep commitment to God, sacrificial living, and a genuine desire to be transformed by His love and grace.
Our Reconciliation to God
By Mannie Troyer6391:21:17SalvationMAT 9:372CO 5:142CO 5:17PHP 2:15In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the familiar scripture of John 3:16, emphasizing God's love for the world and His sacrifice for our benefit. The preacher shares a personal experience of sitting in a courtroom and draws spiritual parallels between the judge, the accused, and the accuser. The sermon focuses on the importance of living in a way that demonstrates our reconciliation with God and the need to share the gospel with others. The preacher references various Bible verses, including 2 Corinthians 5:14, Philippians 2:15, and Mark 16, highlighting the Great Commission and the power of preaching the word of reconciliation.
The Final Harvest of the Dead - Risen!
By Michael Flowers16119:45ResurrectionGEN 1:27GEN 2:7PSA 42:1MAT 13:371CO 15:35PHP 2:15PHP 3:21In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of hope in relation to the resurrection of the dead. He emphasizes that faith, hope, and love are essential, and that optimism is not the same as hope. The preacher uses various analogies, such as plant life and the image of kale, to illustrate the restoration of the perfect image and likeness of God in believers. He also delves into the topic of the resurrection of the dead, describing it as the final harvest and the restoration of our bodies. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the daily sacrifice and surrender of our lives in Christ.
Persecuted
By Leonard Ravenhill601:42:30PersecutionSpiritual Awakening2CH 7:14ISA 60:1MAT 5:10MAT 5:13JHN 16:33ROM 12:2EPH 6:12PHP 2:152TI 3:121PE 4:12Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the profound need for spiritual awakening in a world filled with darkness and confusion. He calls for believers to recognize their responsibility in a society that often prioritizes materialism over spiritual truth, urging them to seek a deeper relationship with God. Ravenhill highlights the importance of being 'salt' in a decaying world, reminding the congregation that true persecution comes from living righteously for Christ's sake. He expresses a longing for revival, where the name of Jesus is proclaimed and the hearts of many are turned back to God. Ultimately, he encourages believers to live out their faith boldly, knowing that they are in a spiritual battle against the forces of evil.
Living Christ
By George Mueller0Living For GodHoliness and HappinessMAT 5:16JHN 15:8ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 5:22PHP 2:15COL 3:2JAS 4:41PE 2:91JN 1:9George Mueller emphasizes the importance of being a committed Christian from the very beginning of one's spiritual journey, urging believers to live distinctly for God and bear fruit for His glory. He encourages young Christians to strive for holiness and happiness, making it evident to the world that they belong to the kingdom of heaven. Mueller stresses that while one can glorify God in their earthly business, they must be willing to give up anything contrary to God's will. He acknowledges that all believers are prone to sin and must continually seek forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a life that reflects Christ, leading to increased joy and usefulness in God's service.
He Kindled a Few Candles
By Watchman Nee0Continuity of FaithWitnessingMAT 5:14PHP 2:15Watchman Nee emphasizes the importance of maintaining a continuous testimony for Christ, likening believers to candles that should burn brightly until consumed. He illustrates that each believer's light can ignite others, creating a chain reaction that spreads the Gospel throughout the world. The sermon reflects on how Jesus kindled the first candles, including Paul, and how the Church has carried this light for over 2,000 years. Nee encourages believers to witness for the Lord, ensuring that His testimony shines perpetually. The call to action is clear: to keep kindling new lights even as our own burns out.
Can Christians Stay Pure Today?
By David Wilkerson0PuritySpiritual VigilancePSA 119:11MAT 5:14ROM 12:2EPH 6:10PHP 2:152TI 3:1HEB 12:1JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 2:15David Wilkerson addresses the challenge of maintaining purity as Christians in a world rife with violence and immorality. He emphasizes the importance of self-examination, urging believers to assess whether they are allowing the wickedness of the age to influence their moral values and spiritual lives. Wilkerson reminds the congregation that throughout history, God has preserved a faithful remnant who remained steadfast despite overwhelming temptation. He stresses that the decline in faith and purity among Christians is largely due to neglecting prayer and the Word of God. Ultimately, he encourages believers to seek a renewed hunger for spiritual things and to shine as lights in a dark world.
Is Your Heart Blameless?
By David Wilkerson0Pursuing RighteousnessBlameless LivingPSA 24:4PRO 11:3MAT 5:82CO 11:13PHP 2:15COL 3:231TH 2:31PE 3:16David Wilkerson emphasizes the call for Christians to live blameless lives, drawing from Paul's example in 1 Thessalonians 2:10. He explains that a blameless Christian is characterized by honesty, purity, and a sincere desire to honor Jesus, avoiding deceit and unclean speech. Wilkerson warns against false prophets and encourages believers to pursue righteousness by faith, highlighting that a true blameless walk cannot be faked. He urges listeners to set their hearts on being blameless today, promising that such a commitment will lead to God's favor and a positive impact on others.
To the Young Christians Who Have Been Converted in the Great Revivals # 2
By Charles Finney0Authenticity of FaithSelf-ExaminationMAT 5:16ROM 12:12CO 5:20GAL 5:22EPH 4:1PHP 2:15COL 3:17JAS 1:221PE 2:121JN 2:6Charles Finney addresses young Christians who have recently converted during the great revivals, urging them to reflect on their lives and the authenticity of their faith. He emphasizes that their actions and character should genuinely represent the religion of Jesus Christ, rather than misrepresent it. Finney challenges them with probing questions about their conduct, urging self-examination and honesty in their spiritual walk. He stresses the importance of living in a way that glorifies God and positively impacts those around them. Ultimately, he calls for a sincere commitment to embodying the teachings of Christ in their daily lives.
The Blessing of Simple Goodness
By J.R. Miller0Simple GoodnessInfluence of CharacterPRO 11:17MAT 5:16ROM 12:21GAL 6:9EPH 2:10PHP 2:15COL 3:231TH 5:15JAS 1:221PE 2:12J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound impact of simple goodness in serving Christ, arguing that while eloquence and wealth may attract attention, it is the quiet influence of goodness that leaves a lasting impression on lives. He encourages those who feel inadequate or ungifted to recognize that even the smallest acts of kindness and a life of integrity can be a powerful ministry. Miller illustrates this through the life of an ordinary Christian woman whose humble goodness inspired her family and community over decades. He asserts that every believer can embody this simple goodness, which is essential in a world that often values showiness over sincerity. Ultimately, the sermon calls for Christians to cultivate a spirit of Christ-like goodness in their daily lives.
Exercising Unto Godliness (Purity of Tongue and Life)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0GodlinessPurity of SpeechMAT 5:8ROM 12:12CO 7:1EPH 4:29PHP 2:151TI 4:71TI 4:16HEB 12:14JAS 3:21PE 1:15Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the necessity of exercising oneself unto godliness, particularly focusing on the purity of speech and life. He urges believers, especially the youth, to maintain a pure heart and conscience, as these are essential for seeing God and living a life that pleases Him. Waldvogel warns against the dangers of ungodly influences and the importance of being diligent in one's spiritual walk, highlighting that our words and actions can either draw us closer to God or lead us away from Him. He encourages a commitment to holiness and the rejection of worldly distractions, asserting that true godliness is a reflection of living by faith in Christ. The sermon calls for a serious examination of one's life and the impact of one's presence in various social settings.
Matthew 5:14
By Chuck Smith0Christian IdentityLight Of The WorldISA 60:1MAT 5:14MAT 5:16JHN 1:5JHN 8:12ROM 13:122CO 4:6EPH 5:8PHP 2:151PE 2:9Chuck Smith emphasizes that Christians are the light of the world, a profound statement given the darkness that pervades society. He argues that while the world seeks enlightenment through knowledge and education, it ultimately fails to address the real issues of human relationships and moral decay. The true light comes from Christ, who not only illuminates our lives but also shines through us, enabling us to reflect His light in a dark world. Smith challenges believers to consider whether their lives demonstrate a distinct difference that points others to Christ. The sermon calls for Christians to embrace their role as the sole source of light in a world desperately in need of hope and truth.
I Kings 10:9
By Chuck Smith0Glorifying GodChristian WitnessPRO 3:5MAT 5:16LUK 11:33ROM 12:61CO 10:31EPH 2:10PHP 2:15COL 3:23JAS 1:171PE 2:9Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of being a light for Christ, drawing parallels from the visit of the Queen of Sheba to Solomon, who exemplified wisdom and the blessings of God. He highlights that true Christians should naturally reflect their faith through good works that glorify God, rather than seeking personal recognition. Smith warns against the futility of claiming to be a Christian without embodying the essence of Christianity, urging believers to let their light shine brightly in the world. He encourages the use of God-given gifts in a way that directs glory back to God, rather than to oneself.
They Were Not Carried to Heaven on Beds of Ease!
By C.H. Spurgeon0Living in a Godless WorldPerseverance in FaithPSA 120:5MAT 5:16JHN 17:15ROM 12:211CO 16:13EPH 6:10PHP 2:152TI 2:3HEB 12:1JAS 1:12C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of living a godly life amidst an ungodly world, urging Christians not to lament their circumstances but to glorify God through their struggles. He reminds believers that they are called to be examples of holiness and consistency, as their conduct is under scrutiny by others. Spurgeon encourages Christians to be active in their faith, asserting that the more challenging the environment, the greater the opportunity to serve and witness for Christ. He draws parallels between the trials faced by saints throughout history and the current struggles believers endure, reinforcing that hardship is part of the Christian journey. Ultimately, he calls for courage and strength, reminding believers that they will be rewarded for their perseverance.
Undefiled in the Midst of Wickedness
By David Wilkerson0Commitment to GodSpiritual IntegrityPSA 119:9DAN 1:8MAT 5:14ROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:11PHP 2:15JAS 4:41PE 2:91JN 2:15David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity in a corrupt society, using Daniel's commitment to abstain from the king's food as a powerful example. Daniel and his friends chose to remain undefiled amidst the wickedness of Babylon, understanding that compromising their standards would lead to a loss of freedom. They made a pact to uphold their faith and values without imposing their beliefs on others, focusing instead on their personal relationship with God. Wilkerson challenges listeners to consider their own commitment to God's purposes, especially in times of crisis, and to be voices of purity in a morally declining world.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
That ye may be blameless - In yourselves, and harmless to others. The sons of God - Showing by your holy conduct that ye are partakers of the Divine nature. Without rebuke - Persons against whom no charge of transgression can justly be laid. A crooked and perverse - Probably referring to the Jews, who were the chief opponents and the most virulent enemies which the Christian Church had. Among whom ye shine - Be like the sun and moon; bless even the perverse and disobedient by your light and splendor. Let your light shine before men; some will walk in that light, and by its shining God will be glorified. It is evident that the apostle, by φωστῃρες εν κοσμῳ, lights in the world, refers to the sun and moon particularly, and perhaps to the heavenly bodies in general.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
blameless and harmless--without either the repute of mischief, or the inclination to do it [ALFORD]. sons--rather as Greek, "the children of God" (Rom 8:14-16). Imitation of our heavenly Father is the instinctive guide to our duty as His children, more than any external law (Mat 5:44-45, Mat 5:48). without rebuke--"without (giving handle for) reproach." The whole verse tacitly refers by contrast to Deu 32:5, "Their spot . . . not . . . of His children . . . a perverse and crooked generation" (compare Pe1 2:12). ye shine--literally, "appear" [TRENCH]. "Show yourselves" (compare Mat 5:14-16; Eph 5:8-13). as lights in the world--The Greek expresses "as luminaries in the world," as the sun and moon, "the lights," or "great lights," in the material world or in the firmament. The Septuagint uses the very same Greek word in the passage, Gen 1:14, Gen 1:16; compare Note,, see on Rev 21:11.
John Gill Bible Commentary
That ye may be blameless,.... This, and what follows, show the end to be answered, by observing the above exhortation. This respects not their being blameless in the sight of God, which the saints are not in themselves, being not without sin, though they are, as considered in Christ, clothed with his righteousness, and washed in his blood; but their being blameless before men: and this may be understood both actively and passively; actively, that they might be without blaming others; some are so unhappy in their disposition and conduct, as to be always finding fault with, and blaming all persons they are concerned with, and all things in them, and done by them, right or wrong, without any just reason; and this ought not to be, and may be prevented by doing all things, as before directed: or passively, that they might not be blamed by others justly; for no man can escape the blame and censure of everyone; our Lord himself did not, nor this our apostle; but doing, as before exhorted to, will, in a great measure, preclude any just reason for blame and complaint: it is added, and harmless; that is, that they might be, and appear to be so; harmless as doves, in imitation of Christ, who was holy in his nature, and harmless in his conversation, as his followers should be; doing no injury to any man's person or property, behaving in an inoffensive manner to all men, to Jew and Gentile, and to the church of God: it follows, the sons of God; not that they might be sons by so doing; but be "as the sons of God", as the Syriac version renders it, be like them, and behave as such; for they were the sons of God already; not by creation only, as angels, and all men are, not merely by profession of religion, but by adopting grace; they were predestinated to the adoption of children, and were taken into this relation in the covenant of grace, Christ had redeemed them from under the law, that they might receive this blessing, and it was actually bestowed upon them by him in conversion: but the sense is, that they might appear to be the children of God, by acting as becomes such; not that they might appear so to themselves, for they were openly and manifestly to themselves the children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus, and through the testimony of the Spirit, witnessing to their spirits that they were in such a relation to God; but that they might appear so to others, that they were the adopted sons of God, and also begotten again by him, and made partakers of the divine nature; by their being followers of God as dear children, and by their being obedient ones to him in all holiness and godly conversation, yielding a ready and cheerful obedience to his will, without repining at it, or disputing about it; and to be without rebuke; not without the rebuke of their heavenly Father, for whom he loves he rebukes, and every son that he receives into his family he scourges and chastises, not in wrath and anger, or with rebukes of fury, but of love; but without the rebuke of men, both of the churches and ministers of Christ, whose business it is to reprove and rebuke, publicly and privately, as cases and their circumstances require; and of the men of the world, who when they have any occasion, make use of it to speak reproachfully, as a railing Rabshakeh did, when it is a time of rebuke and blasphemy, and to be shunned and guarded against as much possible: especially since the saints live in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation: or age and generation, as every age is; saints are like lilies in the valleys, liable to be trampled upon by the foot of every wild beast; like roses among thorns, to be scratched and torn; and like Lots in the midst of Sodom, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: the whole world lies in sin, and the saints are enclosed on every side with wicked men. Philippi, where these saints lived, was a place of wickedness, and so no doubt was the whole region of Macedonia; the inhabitants were evil for the most part; their ways were crooked, and their works perverse, being contrary to the law of God, and Gospel of Christ; and therefore the following exhortation to the saints there was very suitable, Among whom ye shine; or "shine ye", as it may be rendered, as lights in the world. This world is, in a moral sense, what the original chaos was in a natural sense, covered with darkness; the darkness of ignorance and unbelief, of impiety and superstition, has spread itself over the far greater part of the world; the men of it are children of the night, and of darkness; their works are works of darkness, and they are going on in darkness, not knowing where they are going. The saints are the lights of the world, they were once darkness itself, but are made light in and by the Lord; they are called into marvellous light, and are filled with light spiritual and evangelical; they are like the moon and stars, that give light to the world in the night; and as they receive their light from the sun, and communicate it to the world, so do the saints receive theirs from Christ, the sun of righteousness, and show it forth to others, both by doctrine and practice: or rather the churches of Christ are as candlesticks, in which the light of the Gospel is put, and held forth to men, as follows, see Mat 5:14.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:15 shining like bright lights: Believers are to draw people to God by their lives (see Matt 5:13-16). • in a world full of crooked and perverse people: See Deut 32:5; Rom 1:18-32; 3:10-23.