Philippians 3:1
Verse
Context
Righteousness through Faith in Christ
1Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Rejoice in the Lord - Be always happy; but let that happiness be such as you derive from the Lord. To write the same things - He means those which he had formerly preached to them or to other Churches, for he had but one Gospel; and we may rest assured that the doctrine of this epistle was the same with his preaching. For you it is safe - It is much better to have these Divine things committed to writing than confided to memory. By the latter they may be either lost or corrupted, by the former they will be preserved.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord,.... The Syriac version reads, "in our Lord", i.e. Christ. The apostle seems as if he was about to conclude his epistle; and therefore, as if he was taking his farewell of this church, and giving his last advice to them, he exhorts them in a most affectionate manner, as his dear brethren in a spiritual relation, that they would make Christ their chief joy; that whatever sorrow they might have on account of his bonds, or the sickness of Epaphroditus, yet, he observes they had reason to rejoice in their Lord and Saviour; and however, it might be matter of rejoicing to them to hear of his hope of coming once more to them, and of the recovery of their minister and his return to them, yet Christ should be the principal object of their joy. A believer has always reason to rejoice in Christ; in the greatness of his person, he being in the form of God, and equal to him, and therefore able to save his to the uttermost by his obedience and death, and has interest enough in heaven to make his intercession prevalent and successful and power to keep safe all that are committed to him; and in the fitness of his person to be a Mediator, and daysman, to take care of things pertaining to the glory of God, and to make reconciliation for sin; and in the fulness of his person, he having all grace in him for his people, which is all theirs, and with joy may they draw water out of the full wells of salvation in him; and in the beauty of his person which surpasses all others, a sight of which fills with joy unspeakable, and full of glory. They may, and should rejoice, as they sometimes do, in his salvation; in the contrivance of it by infinite wisdom; in the impetration of it by himself; and in the application of it by his spirit; and that because hereby justice is satisfied, the law is magnified and made honourable, sin is finished, and an everlasting righteousness brought in. Also they are called upon to rejoice in his resurrection, which is for their justification; in his ascension, seeing he then received gifts for men; and in his session at the right hand of God, which is in their nature; and in his intercession which is to their advantage; and in all the relations he stands in to them, as head, husband, father, brother, friend; and in everything that is his, and that belongs unto him, as his Gospel, ordinances, ways, and worship, To write the same things to you. The apostle finding he had more time on his hands, or fresh thoughts occurred to him, writes on, and makes an apology for writing the same things, which he had either wrote to other churches, or which he had delivered when first among them, or which he had since wrote to them. For sometimes it is necessary to say and write the same things over and over again, partly that they may be the better understood, and partly that they may be more strongly fixed in the memory; as also, that the saints may be the more established in the present truth: and which he says, to me indeed is not grievous; or troublesome; he found no backwardness to it, nor sluggishness in it; he was not loath to do it, nor was it wearisome to him; or made him slothful, as the Arabic renders it; nor was he afraid to repeat what he had wrote, or again to warn them against false teachers, of whom he stood in no fear: but for you it is safe; or "necessary", as the Vulgate Latin version reads, being a means of preserving them from the error of the wicked; for though the saints are safe in Christ, and can never finally and totally be deceived, yet the Gospel, and the frequent ministration of it, are a means of keeping them from the deception of evil men; for as the Syriac version renders it, "they make you more cautious"; when truth is repeated, and afresh confirmed, it guards against falling in with damnable heresies. And so the Arabic version renders it, "is a guard", or "garrison to you".
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
It seems the church of the Philippians, though a faithful and flourishing church, was disturbed by the judaizing teachers, who endeavoured to keep up the law of Moses, and mix the observances of it with the doctrine of Christ and his institutions. He begins the chapter with warnings against these seducers. I. He exhorts them to rejoice in the Lord (Phi 3:1), to rest satisfied in the interest they had in him and the benefit they hoped for by him. It is the character and temper of sincere Christians to rejoice in Christ Jesus. The more we take of the comfort of our religion the more closely we shall cleave to it: the more we rejoice in Christ the more willing we shall be to do and suffer for him, and the less danger we shalt be in of being drawn away from him. The joy of the Lord is our strength, Neh 8:10. II. He cautions them to take heed of those false teachers: To write the same thing to you to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe; that is, the same things which I have already preached to you; as if he had said, "What has been presented to your ears shall be presented to your eyes: what I have spoken formerly shall now be written; to show that I am still of the same mind." To me indeed is not grievous. Observe, 1. Ministers must not think any thing grievous to themselves which they have reason to believe is safe and edifying to the people. 2. It is good for us often to hear the same truths, to revive the remembrance and strengthen the impression of things of importance. It is a wanton curiosity to desire always to hear some new thing. It is a needful caution he here gives: Beware of dogs, Phi 3:2. The prophet calls the false prophets dumb dogs (Isa 56:10), to which the apostle here seems to refer. Dogs, for their malice against the faithful professors of the gospel of Christ, barking at them and biting them. They cried up good works in opposition to the faith of Christ; but Paul calls them evil workers: they boasted themselves to be of the circumcision; but he calls them the concision: they rent and tore the church of Christ, and cut it to pieces; or contended for an abolished rite, a mere insignificant cutting of the flesh. III. He describes true Christians, who are indeed the circumcision, the spiritual circumcision, the peculiar of people of God, who are in covenant with him, as the Old Testament Israelites were: We are the circumcision, who worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. Here are three characters: - 1. They worshipped in the spirit, in opposition to the carnal ordinances of the Old Testament, which consist in meats, and drinks, and divers washings, etc. Christianity takes us off from these things, and teaches us to be inward with God in all the duties of religious worship. We must worship God in spirit, Joh 4:24. The work of religion is to no purpose any further than the heart is employed in it. Whatsoever we do, we must do it heartily as unto the Lord; and we must worship God in the strength and grace of the Divine Spirit, which is so peculiar to the gospel state, which is the ministration of the spirit, Co2 3:8. 2. They rejoice in Christ Jesus, and not in the peculiar privileges of the Jewish church, or what answers to them in the Christian church - mere outward enjoyments and performances. They rejoice in their relation to Christ and interest in him. God made it the duty of the Israelites to rejoice before him in the courts of his house; but now that the substance has come the shadows are done away, and we are to rejoice in Christ Jesus only. 3. They have no confidence in the flesh, in those carnal ordinances and outward performances. We must be taken off from trusting in our own bottom, that we may build only on Jesus Christ, the everlasting foundation. Our confidence, as well as our joy, is proper to him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:1 rejoice in the Lord: This theme is resumed in 4:4 (see also 1:18; 2:17-18, 28; 4:10). • The phrase these things (literally the same things) is ambiguous: it may refer to (1) the immediately preceding encouragement to rejoice in the Lord; (2) the earlier encouragement to follow Christ’s example (2:1-18); (3) Paul’s exhortation in general; or (4) the following warning about threats to their faith.
Philippians 3:1
Righteousness through Faith in Christ
1Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Christian Growth 2
By Alan Redpath5.1K1:10:50Christian GrowthMAT 6:33MAT 15:23MAT 15:28MAT 15:36PHP 3:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of a woman who approached Jesus for help. He highlights four different responses Jesus gave to her, which were denial, discouragement, disillusionment, and deliverance. The preacher then shares a personal experience of witnessing a powerful prayer session led by a missionary. He emphasizes the importance of faith and perseverance in seeking God's help. The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to trust in God's process of refining and transforming their lives.
The Love of Christ Constrains
By Alan Redpath5.0K1:00:02Love Of ChristMAT 6:332CO 5:152CO 5:20PHP 3:1PHP 4:1In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of being on a plane that faced difficulties during takeoff. Despite the challenges, the plane managed to take off and ascend to a safe altitude. The speaker then draws a parallel between this experience and the Christian life, emphasizing the power of the law of the spirit of life in Christ that sets believers free from the law of sin and death. The sermon highlights the concepts of substitution and identification, explaining how Jesus' death on the cross serves as a substitution for our sins and how believers are identified with Christ in his victory over sin and death.
Who Do You Think You Are
By Alan Redpath3.2K58:22Christian Life1CH 4:23MAT 6:332CO 5:102CO 5:15PHP 3:1PHP 4:7In this sermon, the speaker uses the analogy of a plane struggling to take off to illustrate the meaning of the gospel. He explains that the plane was held down by the law of gravity, but with emergency power and perseverance, it eventually took off. The speaker emphasizes that our lives as Christians should be different from the world, causing others to question and seek answers. He highlights the importance of repentance and belief in Jesus as the answer to what we should do. Additionally, the speaker discusses the love of Christ and the fellowship that should be evident in our daily lives as Christians.
The Greatest Thing in the World
By Paris Reidhead1.2K43:39Christian LifePHP 3:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Philippians chapter 3, particularly verse 10. He begins by emphasizing the importance of rejoicing in the Lord and warns against false teachings and influences. The speaker then discusses the concept of the greatest thing in the world, highlighting the value of talent and the importance of living a purposeful life. He also emphasizes the significance of knowing Jesus Christ and the joy that comes from having a relationship with Him. Throughout the sermon, the speaker encourages the audience to prioritize their faith and to find their ultimate fulfillment in Christ.
(The Church Needs to Know) 9. Jesus Is Calling Again
By Miki Hardy1.1K1:03:13Jesus CallingMAT 6:33GAL 1:11PHP 3:1PHP 3:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ, particularly the preaching of the cross. He highlights that the gospel not only saves people but also transforms Christians, leading them to perfection. The preacher encourages listeners to seek a deeper understanding of the Scriptures and to identify themselves with what they read. He also emphasizes the importance of following the example of the Apostle Paul and choosing to walk with those who are determined and convicted to live out the true gospel. The preacher concludes by reminding listeners that the Holy Spirit is at work, preparing and speaking to the hearts of believers.
Mid South Conference 1978-06 Fellowship in the Gospel
By Aldy Fam Fanous1.1K42:24GospelISA 56:10PHP 2:19PHP 3:1PHP 4:2PHP 4:4PHP 4:6In this sermon, the preacher discusses different levels of spiritual knowledge and growth. He describes the state of being ankle deep, knee deep, and loins deep in knowledge, but emphasizes that the ultimate goal is to be fully submerged like a swimmer. The preacher emphasizes that in this state, only Christ should be seen in the believer's life. The sermon then shifts to the book of Philippians, where the preacher highlights the importance of rejoicing in the Lord and being careful of false teachers. The preacher encourages the audience to be filled with the Spirit of God and obedient to His bidding.
A Saint in Disgrace
By J. Glyn Owen1.1K59:11WeaknessPSA 51:1PSA 51:10MAT 6:33ROM 6:6PHP 3:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for Christians to move beyond just receiving forgiveness of sins and to also seek deliverance from the principle of sin. He highlights the importance of appropriating both the death of Jesus for forgiveness and the life of the risen Lord for deliverance. The preacher acknowledges that many Christians struggle with spiritual growth and defeat, wondering why they experience so little victory. He uses the example of David, a man after God's own heart, who also faced desperate defeat and sin. The sermon concludes with a call to repentance and a reminder that true victory comes from acknowledging and addressing our spiritual need.
The Way to Live
By Ralph Sutera1.1K1:08:34Christian LivingPHP 3:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit and allowing Him to work in our lives. He explains that the Holy Spirit's role is to make Jesus large in our lives and to transform us to be more like Him. The preacher also highlights the need for dealing with our sins and purifying our hearts, as everything that comes from a corrupt heart will bear its marks. He gives an illustration of a lady bringing beautiful flowers to church, but no one noticing or appreciating them, to emphasize the importance of having a pure heart.
Spiritual Joy
By Jim Cymbala98728:49JoyPSA 98:4LUK 6:38JHN 13:34PHP 3:1PHP 4:41TH 5:161TH 5:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the Lord. He points out that the Apostle Paul mentions this multiple times in his letter to the Philippians. The speaker encourages the audience to reflect on past experiences where God came through for them and lifted them up. He reminds them that they should not dwell on the past, but rather focus on the present and trust that God will be with them in the future. The speaker also highlights the contrast between rejoicing in the Lord and the anger and bitterness that is prevalent in the world, urging believers to shine like stars by rejoicing in the Lord and avoiding grudges.
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.
Man's Extremity - God's Opportunity
By Anton Bosch40540:13Christian LifePHP 3:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses two miracles performed by Jesus: the feeding of the 4,000 and the turning of water into wine. In both instances, Jesus waits for the right time to perform the miracles, allowing man to come to the end of their abilities and plans. He involves the disciples in the process, using what little resources they have to perform the miracles. The preacher emphasizes that God graciously chooses to involve us in His work, even though He doesn't need us, and highlights the importance of trusting in God's timing and provision.
That I Might Know Him - Part 1
By Peter Brandon12650:57Rejoicing in the LordKnowing ChristPHP 3:1Peter Brandon emphasizes the importance of knowing Christ intimately, as expressed in Philippians 3. He discusses the contrast between rejoicing in the Lord and having confidence in the flesh, highlighting Paul's personal journey from legalistic righteousness to a deep, personal relationship with Jesus. Brandon encourages believers to rejoice in their salvation, service, and sanctification, reminding them that true joy comes from understanding their identity in Christ. He warns against the dangers of externalism and urges the congregation to focus on the heart of Christianity, which is a vibrant relationship with Jesus. The sermon concludes with a call to pursue a deeper knowledge of Christ, encouraging all believers, regardless of age, to seek this intimate connection.
Freedom From Worry (Eph5_17 Phil4_8-12)
By Phil Beach Jr.3744:00Rejoicing in the LordWorryFreedom from WorryMAT 4:4ROM 8:26EPH 5:14PHP 3:1PHP 4:4Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the Lord and the necessity of overcoming worry and anxiety through prayer and thanksgiving. He explains that true rejoicing cannot coexist with worry, and that continual communication with God is essential for maintaining peace and joy in our lives. Beach highlights that God provides guidance on how to rejoice and be free from anxiety, urging believers to focus on prayer and the Word of God. He warns against distractions that can dull our spiritual sensitivity and encourages a life filled with the Spirit, leading to a heart of worship and gratitude. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of God's purpose in our lives, which is to mold us into the likeness of Christ.
Counting the Cost
By Phil Beach Jr.191:00:48Surrendering to GodDiscipleshipPHP 3:1Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of discerning the voice of God through the Holy Spirit, urging believers to count the cost of discipleship. He highlights that true following of Christ requires a willingness to forsake all earthly gains and attachments, including family and personal desires, in order to fully embrace God's will. Beach warns against the dangers of covetousness and the excuses that hinder our relationship with God, calling for a radical commitment to surrender everything to Him. He encourages the church to heed the Spirit's call and to prepare for the challenges that come with a genuine pursuit of Christ. Ultimately, he reminds us that true freedom and fulfillment come from relinquishing our lives to God’s purpose.
Talk on Praise With Singing ("If You Don't Praise the Lord, You're Going to Fail")
By Hans R. Waldvogel0PraiseJoy in the LordPSA 34:1PSA 100:4PSA 150:6ISA 61:3JHN 15:5PHP 3:1PHP 4:41TH 5:16HEB 13:15JAS 4:10Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the vital role of praise in a believer's life, asserting that without it, one is destined to fail. He draws from the Apostle Paul's exhortation to rejoice in the Lord, even from a dungeon, highlighting that true joy and liberation come through continuous praise. Waldvogel shares personal experiences of overcoming inner bondages through worship, illustrating that praise not only invites God's presence but also transforms the soul. He warns against the pride that hinders joy and encourages believers to focus on rejoicing in the Lord to experience true victory and fruitfulness in their spiritual lives.
Foundational Truths for Revival, Tape 2
By Ralph Sutera0PSA 51:1ROM 14:17EPH 4:26PHP 3:11JN 1:9Ralph Sutera preaches about the importance of dealing with sins, self-life, and the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the need for genuine surrender to God, acknowledging sins, surrendering self to the cross, and claiming the fullness of the Holy Spirit for victory and power in the Christian life. Sutera encourages believers to focus on a lifestyle of victory, glory, and power through continuous acknowledgment of sins, agreement with God about self, and acceptance of the Spirit's power, thanking God daily for His work in their lives.
The Momentousness of Jesus Christ
By T. Austin-Sparks0Personal TransformationThe Significance of ChristPHP 3:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the momentousness of Jesus Christ through the life of Job, illustrating how Job's journey from outward righteousness to inward knowledge of God reflects the necessity of experiencing Christ personally. Job's initial fullness and goodness were overshadowed by complacency, leading to a profound transformation through suffering, where he ultimately recognized his own nothingness and the greatness of God. This transition highlights that true knowledge of God comes not from mere hearing but from deep, personal encounters with Christ, who serves as our mediator and redeemer. Sparks draws parallels between Job's quest for understanding and the believer's need for a personal relationship with Christ, culminating in the realization that all judgment and redemption are found in Him. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of Christ's significance in our lives, urging believers to seek a transformative relationship with Him.
The Great Prize (Philippians 3:1-6)
By T. Austin-Sparks0Pursuit of ChristConformity to His ImagePHP 3:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the pursuit of knowing Christ as the ultimate prize in the Christian life, drawing from Paul's declaration in Philippians that to live is Christ. He explains that gaining Christ involves being conformed to His image, which is the goal of salvation and requires active pursuit. Sparks contrasts Paul's choice to prioritize Christ over earthly possessions with the rich young ruler's decision to turn away from Jesus, highlighting the transformative power of Christ's resurrection in enabling believers to overcome worldly distractions. He encourages believers to embrace suffering as a pathway to glory and to recognize that true fulfillment comes from aligning with God's purpose of conformity to Christ. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deepening relationship with Christ, where He becomes everything to the believer.
John 1:35-40
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 1:3JHN 1:29PHP 3:12TI 4:2John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of continuously reminding ourselves of the teachings of God, as our souls require repeated sowing and carefulness to bear fruit. He emphasizes the need for persistent attention to God's word to mature and withstand temptations. John's repetition of 'Behold the Lamb of God' serves to awaken the listeners from their spiritual slumber and prepare them to follow Christ. The disciples' immediate response to follow Jesus highlights the eagerness to seek eternal life and the importance of recognizing and following the true Messiah.
Happiness
By J.C. Ryle0True HappinessFaith in ChristGEN 2:15PSA 144:15PRO 14:13ECC 1:14ISA 55:2MAT 11:28JHN 4:13PHP 3:1TIT 2:11REV 3:20J.C. Ryle emphasizes that true happiness is found in a relationship with God, as expressed in Psalm 144:15. He recounts a confrontation between an atheist and an old woman who challenges him to consider his own happiness, highlighting that mere external appearances of joy do not equate to true contentment. Ryle outlines essential elements for genuine happiness, warns against common misconceptions, and ultimately concludes that only a true Christian can experience lasting joy, rooted in faith and a right relationship with Christ. He urges readers to seek happiness through repentance and faith in Jesus, as true fulfillment comes from being aligned with God's will.
John 4:13-22
By St. John Chrysostom0JHN 4:14JHN 4:20PHP 3:1John Chrysostom preaches on the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, highlighting the symbolism of water as the grace of the Spirit, both cleansing and refreshing the soul. He emphasizes how Jesus gently leads the woman to a deeper understanding of spiritual truths, revealing Himself as the source of living water that satisfies eternally. The sermon explores the woman's progression from initial doubt to belief, contrasting her openness to Jesus with the disbelief of the Jews. Chrysostom challenges the congregation to prioritize spiritual reading and understanding of the Scriptures, emphasizing the transformative power of God's Word in sanctifying the soul and drawing one closer to God.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Rejoice in the Lord - Be always happy; but let that happiness be such as you derive from the Lord. To write the same things - He means those which he had formerly preached to them or to other Churches, for he had but one Gospel; and we may rest assured that the doctrine of this epistle was the same with his preaching. For you it is safe - It is much better to have these Divine things committed to writing than confided to memory. By the latter they may be either lost or corrupted, by the former they will be preserved.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord,.... The Syriac version reads, "in our Lord", i.e. Christ. The apostle seems as if he was about to conclude his epistle; and therefore, as if he was taking his farewell of this church, and giving his last advice to them, he exhorts them in a most affectionate manner, as his dear brethren in a spiritual relation, that they would make Christ their chief joy; that whatever sorrow they might have on account of his bonds, or the sickness of Epaphroditus, yet, he observes they had reason to rejoice in their Lord and Saviour; and however, it might be matter of rejoicing to them to hear of his hope of coming once more to them, and of the recovery of their minister and his return to them, yet Christ should be the principal object of their joy. A believer has always reason to rejoice in Christ; in the greatness of his person, he being in the form of God, and equal to him, and therefore able to save his to the uttermost by his obedience and death, and has interest enough in heaven to make his intercession prevalent and successful and power to keep safe all that are committed to him; and in the fitness of his person to be a Mediator, and daysman, to take care of things pertaining to the glory of God, and to make reconciliation for sin; and in the fulness of his person, he having all grace in him for his people, which is all theirs, and with joy may they draw water out of the full wells of salvation in him; and in the beauty of his person which surpasses all others, a sight of which fills with joy unspeakable, and full of glory. They may, and should rejoice, as they sometimes do, in his salvation; in the contrivance of it by infinite wisdom; in the impetration of it by himself; and in the application of it by his spirit; and that because hereby justice is satisfied, the law is magnified and made honourable, sin is finished, and an everlasting righteousness brought in. Also they are called upon to rejoice in his resurrection, which is for their justification; in his ascension, seeing he then received gifts for men; and in his session at the right hand of God, which is in their nature; and in his intercession which is to their advantage; and in all the relations he stands in to them, as head, husband, father, brother, friend; and in everything that is his, and that belongs unto him, as his Gospel, ordinances, ways, and worship, To write the same things to you. The apostle finding he had more time on his hands, or fresh thoughts occurred to him, writes on, and makes an apology for writing the same things, which he had either wrote to other churches, or which he had delivered when first among them, or which he had since wrote to them. For sometimes it is necessary to say and write the same things over and over again, partly that they may be the better understood, and partly that they may be more strongly fixed in the memory; as also, that the saints may be the more established in the present truth: and which he says, to me indeed is not grievous; or troublesome; he found no backwardness to it, nor sluggishness in it; he was not loath to do it, nor was it wearisome to him; or made him slothful, as the Arabic renders it; nor was he afraid to repeat what he had wrote, or again to warn them against false teachers, of whom he stood in no fear: but for you it is safe; or "necessary", as the Vulgate Latin version reads, being a means of preserving them from the error of the wicked; for though the saints are safe in Christ, and can never finally and totally be deceived, yet the Gospel, and the frequent ministration of it, are a means of keeping them from the deception of evil men; for as the Syriac version renders it, "they make you more cautious"; when truth is repeated, and afresh confirmed, it guards against falling in with damnable heresies. And so the Arabic version renders it, "is a guard", or "garrison to you".
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
It seems the church of the Philippians, though a faithful and flourishing church, was disturbed by the judaizing teachers, who endeavoured to keep up the law of Moses, and mix the observances of it with the doctrine of Christ and his institutions. He begins the chapter with warnings against these seducers. I. He exhorts them to rejoice in the Lord (Phi 3:1), to rest satisfied in the interest they had in him and the benefit they hoped for by him. It is the character and temper of sincere Christians to rejoice in Christ Jesus. The more we take of the comfort of our religion the more closely we shall cleave to it: the more we rejoice in Christ the more willing we shall be to do and suffer for him, and the less danger we shalt be in of being drawn away from him. The joy of the Lord is our strength, Neh 8:10. II. He cautions them to take heed of those false teachers: To write the same thing to you to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe; that is, the same things which I have already preached to you; as if he had said, "What has been presented to your ears shall be presented to your eyes: what I have spoken formerly shall now be written; to show that I am still of the same mind." To me indeed is not grievous. Observe, 1. Ministers must not think any thing grievous to themselves which they have reason to believe is safe and edifying to the people. 2. It is good for us often to hear the same truths, to revive the remembrance and strengthen the impression of things of importance. It is a wanton curiosity to desire always to hear some new thing. It is a needful caution he here gives: Beware of dogs, Phi 3:2. The prophet calls the false prophets dumb dogs (Isa 56:10), to which the apostle here seems to refer. Dogs, for their malice against the faithful professors of the gospel of Christ, barking at them and biting them. They cried up good works in opposition to the faith of Christ; but Paul calls them evil workers: they boasted themselves to be of the circumcision; but he calls them the concision: they rent and tore the church of Christ, and cut it to pieces; or contended for an abolished rite, a mere insignificant cutting of the flesh. III. He describes true Christians, who are indeed the circumcision, the spiritual circumcision, the peculiar of people of God, who are in covenant with him, as the Old Testament Israelites were: We are the circumcision, who worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. Here are three characters: - 1. They worshipped in the spirit, in opposition to the carnal ordinances of the Old Testament, which consist in meats, and drinks, and divers washings, etc. Christianity takes us off from these things, and teaches us to be inward with God in all the duties of religious worship. We must worship God in spirit, Joh 4:24. The work of religion is to no purpose any further than the heart is employed in it. Whatsoever we do, we must do it heartily as unto the Lord; and we must worship God in the strength and grace of the Divine Spirit, which is so peculiar to the gospel state, which is the ministration of the spirit, Co2 3:8. 2. They rejoice in Christ Jesus, and not in the peculiar privileges of the Jewish church, or what answers to them in the Christian church - mere outward enjoyments and performances. They rejoice in their relation to Christ and interest in him. God made it the duty of the Israelites to rejoice before him in the courts of his house; but now that the substance has come the shadows are done away, and we are to rejoice in Christ Jesus only. 3. They have no confidence in the flesh, in those carnal ordinances and outward performances. We must be taken off from trusting in our own bottom, that we may build only on Jesus Christ, the everlasting foundation. Our confidence, as well as our joy, is proper to him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:1 rejoice in the Lord: This theme is resumed in 4:4 (see also 1:18; 2:17-18, 28; 4:10). • The phrase these things (literally the same things) is ambiguous: it may refer to (1) the immediately preceding encouragement to rejoice in the Lord; (2) the earlier encouragement to follow Christ’s example (2:1-18); (3) Paul’s exhortation in general; or (4) the following warning about threats to their faith.