Philippians 4:5
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let your moderation be known - The word επιεικες is of very extensive signification; it means the same as επιεικεια, mildness, patience, yieldingness, gentleness, clemency, moderation, unwillingness to litigate or contend; but moderation is expressive enough as a general term. "Moderation," says Dr. Macknight, "means meekness under provocation, readiness to forgive injuries, equity in the management of business, candour in judging of the characters and actions of others, sweetness of disposition, and the entire government of the passions." The Lord is at hand - A phrase something similar to the Maranatha of Co1 16:22 : The Lord is Judge, and is at hand to punish. Schoettgen supposes, from this verse, taken in connection with the preceding, that Euodias and Syntyche were of a quarrelsome disposition; and hence the exhortation and threatening in the third and fifth verses.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
moderation--from a Greek root, "to yield," whence yieldingness [TRENCH]; or from a root, "it is fitting," whence "reasonableness of dealing" [ALFORD], that considerateness for others, not urging one's own rights to the uttermost, but waiving a part, and thereby rectifying the injustices of justice. The archetype of this grace is God, who presses not the strictness of His law against us as we deserve (Psa 130:3-4); though having exacted the fullest payment for us from our Divine Surety. There are included in "moderation," candor and kindliness. Joy in the Lord raises us above rigorism towards others (Phi 4:5), and carefulness (Phi 4:6) as to one's own affairs. Sadness produces morose harshness towards others, and a troublesome spirit in ourselves. Let . . . be known--that is, in your conduct to others, let nothing inconsistent with "moderation" be seen. Not a precept to make a display of moderation. Let this grace "be known" to men in acts; let "your requests be made to God" in word (Phi 4:6). unto all men--even to the "perverse" (Phi 2:15), that so ye may win them. Exercise "forbearance" even to your persecutors. None is so ungracious as not to be kindly to someone, from some motive or another, on some occasion; the believer is to be so "unto all men" at all times. The Lord is at hand--The Lord's coming again speedily is the grand motive to every Christian grace (Jam 5:8-9). Harshness to others (the opposite of "moderation") would be taking into our own hands prematurely the prerogatives of judging, which belongs to the Lord alone (Co1 4:5); and so provoking God to judge us by the strict letter of the law (Jam 2:12-13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Let your moderation be known unto all men,.... The Vulgate Latin reads, "your modesty". The Syriac and Arabic versions, "your meekness", or "humility"; graces which accompany moderation, and are very necessary to it, but not that itself. The Ethiopic version renders it, "your authority", which by no means agrees; for moderation lies not in exerting authority and power to the uttermost, at least with rigour, but in showing clemency and lenity; not dealing with men according to the severity of laws and strict justice, but according to equity, and with mildness and gentleness; giving up strict and proper right, receding from what is a man's due, and not rigidly insisting on it; putting up with affronts and injuries, and bearing them with patience; and interpreting things in the best sense, and putting the best constructions on words and actions they will bear; and in using inferiors and equals with all humanity, kindness, and respect: and this is what is here intended, which the apostle would have made "known"; exercised and practised publicly, that it might be seen and known of all, and God might be glorified, by whose name they were called, though their agreeable conversation among men; see Mat 5:16; and he would not only have this known unto, but exercised towards "all men"; not only to believers, the members of the church, by ruling with gentleness, by bearing the infirmities of the weak, and by forgiving offences; but also to unbelievers, to the men of the world, by not avenging themselves, but giving way to wrath; by patient suffering for well doing, without making any returns of ill, either by words or deeds: this is the moderation here meant, and not moderation in eating and drinking, and in apparel, and in the love and use of, and care for the things of this world; though such moderation highly becomes professors of religion; and much less moderation in religion, or towards the false teachers, thinking and speaking well of them; and interpreting their notions in the best sense, hoping they may mean otherwise than they say, and therefore should treat their persons with great respect, and their principles with tenderness; but this can never be thought to be the apostle's sense, after he had himself given them such names and characters, as in Phi 3:2; and besides, though we may, and many times ought, as men and Christians, to give way, and yield up what is our right and due, for the sake of peace, yet we cannot, nor ought to give up anything, that of right belongs to God and Christ, in matters of doctrine or worship; nor in the least abate of our zeal for the same, or give way to false teachers in any respect, nor for any time: moreover, moderation in religion is nothing else but lukewarmness and indifference, than which nothing is more detestable, or abhorred by Christ. The argument or reason enforcing moderation in the above sense of it follows, the Lord is at hand. The Syriac version reads, "our Lord": and the Ethiopic version, "God is at hand". The sense is, either the Lord is near, he is omnipresent, and sees and observes the conduct of his people, their deportment in the world, and to one another; and therefore, as in his presence, and under his eye, they should behave according to equity, and with kindness and tenderness towards their fellow creatures and fellow Christians: or the Lord is nigh unto them, as he is to all that call upon him in truth, Psa 145:18; he is a present help in time of trouble, Psa 46:1; he is in the midst of them, and will help, and that right early, Psa 46:5; and will avenge his elect, and vindicate their cause, and right all their wrongs in his due time; and therefore they should take all things patiently, and not avenge themselves: or in a little while Christ will come to judgment, when he will plead the cause of his people, and convince ungodly sinners of their ungodly deeds, and hard speeches against him and his, Jde 1:15; and therefore they should leave all to that time, and commit themselves to him that judgeth righteously, Pe1 2:23.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5 Believers are to be considerate in their responses to others, even in persecution. They can afford to leave justice in God’s hands because they know the Lord is coming soon (cp. Jas 5:8-9).
Philippians 4:5
Rejoice in the Lord
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!5Let your gentleness be apparent to all. The Lord is near.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Hope in a Hopeless World
By William MacDonald1.9K35:13HopeJHN 9:4JHN 14:1PHP 4:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of unity and avoiding quarrels over non-essential matters. He encourages the audience to consider the question, "What difference will it make a hundred years from today?" as a way to settle disputes and focus on what truly matters. The preacher also highlights the hope of the coming of the Lord as a motivation for unity and a powerful appeal in preaching the gospel. He warns that when the Lord comes, it will be too late to serve Him or invest in the diligent study of the Word of God. The sermon also addresses the serious family problems and societal issues of the present time, but offers hope for believers in the promises of God.
Are You Known for Being Reasonable and Gentle by James Jennings
By James Malachi Jennings55055:47GAL 6:1PHP 4:5TIT 3:21PE 3:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of embodying gentleness, reasonableness, and humility in our interactions with others, both within the church and in the world. It highlights the need to prioritize the interests of others, maintain unity, and exhibit Christ-like characteristics to be a clear sign of God's salvation. The message encourages self-reflection on whether one's behavior reflects a spirit of gentleness and reasonableness, aligning with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles.
Open House at Lyman
By Ken Baird44739:15PSA 133:1JHN 13:35PHP 4:51PE 5:61JN 3:14In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Revelation chapter 4 and 5, highlighting the worship and unity displayed by the beasts, elders, and the Lamb. The speaker then turns to Psalm 133, emphasizing the importance of unity among brethren. They proceed to discuss seven unities that unify the people of God and promote unity within the church. The sermon concludes with a focus on the key to being of one mind in the Lord, which is to let our sweet reasonableness be known to all, as the Lord is standing by.
Letter From Prof. Finney to Miss a.e. of Vermont--No. 4.
By Charles Finney0Public DutiesGuidance of the Holy SpiritPRO 3:5MAT 5:16ROM 14:171CO 10:31GAL 5:13PHP 4:51TI 2:9JAS 1:51PE 3:151JN 4:18Charles Finney addresses Sister A's concerns about public duties and the role of women in spiritual gatherings. He emphasizes that the guiding principle should be universal love rather than mere impulses or feelings, cautioning against being led by strong impressions that may come from Satan. Finney encourages her to consider the circumstances and the impact of her actions on others, asserting that true guidance from the Spirit is calm and reasoned. He also discusses the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to diet and health, warning against becoming enslaved to strict dietary rules. Ultimately, he reassures her that acting in love and seeking God's glory should guide her decisions.
Zeal With Wisdom
By K.P. Yohannan0ZealWisdom in RelationshipsPSA 111:10PRO 4:7PRO 15:1PRO 19:20ECC 3:1ACT 20:24PHP 4:5COL 4:5JAS 1:51PE 3:1K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of balancing zeal with wisdom, drawing parallels from the lives of Paul, Peter, and Jesus, who were passionate in their pursuits yet demonstrated sensitivity and understanding in their interactions. He shares personal anecdotes to illustrate how unchecked zeal can lead to misunderstandings and conflict, particularly in relationships, and stresses the need for gentleness and meekness in our approach to others. Yohannan encourages believers to maintain their enthusiasm for the Gospel while being wise in their actions and words, highlighting that true wisdom comes from a close relationship with the Lord.
Epistle 109
By George Fox0PatienceUnity in ChristGEN 9:23PSA 60:2ISA 58:12MAT 18:20ACT 8:23ROM 14:131CO 13:5PHP 4:5COL 4:6JAS 4:11George Fox emphasizes the importance of patience and unity among believers, urging them to refrain from judging and speaking ill of one another, as such actions sow discord and allow worldly influences to disrupt their fellowship. He encourages friends to dwell in the life of God, fostering love and understanding, and to cover each other's shortcomings with grace. Fox warns against the dangers of strife and the worldly spirit, advocating for moderation and temperance as essential virtues that reflect God's truth. He calls for a commitment to love and unity, highlighting that true strength lies in the seed of God that brings healing and reconciliation. Ultimately, he stresses that the weight of truth should be valued above all, as it is the foundation for genuine community and spiritual growth.
Tempers, and What to Do With Them
By F.B. Meyer0Transformation through ChristManaging AngerPRO 15:1PRO 16:32ECC 7:9ROM 12:18GAL 5:22EPH 4:31PHP 4:5COL 3:8JAS 1:191PE 2:1F.B. Meyer addresses the destructive impact of bad tempers on families and relationships, illustrating how irritability can overshadow moments meant for joy and peace. He emphasizes that while tempers can be inherited, individuals have the power to change and cultivate a sunny disposition through conscious effort and reliance on Christ. Meyer encourages listeners to lay aside their ill-temper as a deliberate act of will and to trust in Jesus for transformation, highlighting the importance of seeking His strength in moments of provocation. Ultimately, he assures that with faith and commitment, one can develop a character marked by gentleness and patience, countering the negativity of a bad temper.
2 Peter 3:4
By John Gill0Faith in God's PromisesThe Second Coming of ChristMAT 24:36JHN 14:3ACT 1:11ACT 10:42PHP 4:51TH 4:16HEB 10:371PE 4:52PE 3:4REV 22:12John Gill addresses the skepticism surrounding the promise of Christ's return, as expressed in 2 Peter 3:4. He highlights the mockery of those questioning the fulfillment of this promise, pointing out that the prophets, Jesus, and the apostles all affirmed His second coming. Gill emphasizes that despite the apparent continuity of the world since the time of the patriarchs, this does not negate the truth of God's promises. He encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting in the eventual fulfillment of Christ's return, despite the doubts of the world.
A Word About Temper
By J.R. Miller0Christian CharacterTemperPRO 15:1PRO 16:32MAT 5:9ROM 12:181CO 13:4GAL 5:22EPH 4:32PHP 4:5COL 1:29JAS 1:19J.R. Miller addresses the pervasive issue of bad temper, revealing that over half of people exhibit some degree of it, often without recognizing their own faults. He emphasizes the importance of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness, as modeled by Christ, and encourages individuals to actively work on controlling their tempers rather than allowing them to dominate their lives. Miller illustrates that bad temper not only harms oneself but also negatively impacts relationships with others, urging a transformation towards a more loving and patient disposition. He concludes that achieving a good temper requires deliberate effort and self-discipline, as well as a commitment to reflect Christ's character in our interactions.
Steadfastness in Conflict
By Duncan Campbell0Spiritual WarfareSteadfastnessEXO 17:92CH 15:2PRO 24:21ISA 54:17ISA 59:19MAT 19:26ROM 1:17EPH 6:12PHP 4:51JN 3:21Duncan Campbell emphasizes the necessity of steadfastness in the face of conflict, drawing parallels between Israel's battle against Amalek and the spiritual struggles Christians face today. He highlights that true victory requires reliance on God, as exemplified by Moses' leadership and the support of others during the battle. Campbell asserts that while the enemy may be formidable, faith and obedience to God's call are essential for overcoming challenges. He encourages believers to recognize their responsibility in the fight against spiritual darkness, reminding them that God empowers those who are willing to act. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to prayer and unity in the pursuit of God's victory.
The Aggravating Part
By George Fox0PatienceUnity in ChristPRO 15:1MAT 7:1EPH 4:29PHP 4:5COL 3:13JAS 1:19George Fox emphasizes the importance of patience and love among friends, urging them to refrain from judging one another and speaking ill behind each other's backs, as this breeds enmity. He warns against allowing the world's spirit to influence their actions, advocating for a community rooted in the life of God where they can truly see Jesus among them. Fox encourages believers to avoid the 'Aggravating Part' that leads to strife and confusion, reminding them that patience must prevail to align with God's truth and wisdom.
Pudling
By George Fox0PeaceUnity in ChristPHP 4:5George Fox addresses the prisoners in Exon, urging them to remain meek and lowly, guided by the Spirit that leads to peace. He warns against relying on carnal wisdom, which can lead to confusion and exclusion from God's Kingdom. Fox encourages unity and love among the prisoners, emphasizing that true victory comes not from a hasty spirit but from the Lamb who reigns. He calls for patience and peaceable conduct, encouraging them to be examples of Christ's image even in their imprisonment.
Present Truth
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0JHN 3:6JHN 13:34ROM 5:5ROM 8:17GAL 4:4EPH 2:10PHP 3:20PHP 4:5Lewis Sperry Chafer discusses the distinct revelation of 'grace and truth' brought by Jesus Christ through the cross, which surpasses the earthly kingdom revelations of the Old Testament. He emphasizes the new realities made possible by the cross, such as life through a new birth by the Spirit, a new standing as members of the body of Christ, a new sufficiency with the indwelling Spirit, a new service of witnessing to a completed sacrifice, a new rule of life under grace, a new purpose of transforming individuals into the image of Christ, and a new prospect of the imminent return of the Lord.
Advent
By J.H. Newman0MAL 3:1LUK 19:11JHN 13:34ROM 13:111CO 4:1PHP 4:5J.H. Newman preaches about the season of Advent, which prepares us for both the celebration of Christ's first coming in the flesh and the anticipation of His second coming in glory to judge the living and the dead. The Church's services during Advent focus on awakening us from spiritual slumber, casting off darkness, and putting on the armor of light in preparation for Christ's return. Through reflections on Scripture, the role of ministers, and the call to love one another, we are reminded of our high duties, privileges, and responsibilities as members of the Christian Church until Christ's second coming.
John 4:28-39
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 24:37JHN 4:31JHN 4:342CO 5:10PHP 4:51TH 5:3John Chrysostom preaches about the fervor and zeal required to obtain blessings from Christ, using the example of the Samaritan woman who left her water pot to share the news of Jesus. He highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual matters over worldly concerns and the wisdom in speaking prudently and drawing others to Christ. Chrysostom emphasizes the significance of doing God's will and finishing His work, comparing it to the nourishment of food. He encourages believers to imitate the woman's boldness in repentance and not be ashamed before men but fear God, who sees all and will judge accordingly.
Hebrews 10:19-25
By St. John Chrysostom0PRO 17:17MAT 5:44MAT 18:20ROM 13:111CO 13:5PHP 4:5HEB 5:6HEB 7:16HEB 7:19HEB 8:13HEB 9:11HEB 10:5John Chrysostom preaches about the significance of entering the holiest through the blood of Jesus, emphasizing the new and living way He has consecrated for believers. He encourages drawing near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, and holding fast to hope without wavering. Chrysostom highlights the importance of assembling together to provoke love and good works, urging believers to consider one another and strive for virtuous living. He stresses the power of love in fulfilling the law, urging believers to love even their enemies as a pathway to virtue and becoming more like God.
Homily 77 on Matthew
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 24:33MAT 24:35ROM 15:21CO 15:36PHP 4:5John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of being vigilant and prepared for the return of Christ, emphasizing the need to focus on serving others and not just ourselves. He highlights the significance of almsgiving, prayer, and fasting in demonstrating love for our neighbors and God. Chrysostom warns against living in luxury and neglecting the needs of others, stressing that true virtue lies in selflessness and caring for those around us.
The Jewel of Peace
By Charles S. Price0MAT 18:3JHN 16:33ROM 8:38PHP 4:5Charles S. Price preaches about the hidden treasures in the Word of the Lord, emphasizing the secret of peace that surpasses all understanding, a divine peace found in the midst of life's storms and turmoil. He highlights the importance of having a heart and mind attitude of confidence, quietness, and trust in God, rather than giving in to worry and emotional hysterics. Price encourages believers to learn the art of asking and receiving from God, illustrating with the story of George Mueller's faith in prayer and thanksgiving. He concludes by emphasizing that the peace of God, which surpasses understanding, will guard our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus, bringing a deep sense of rest and assurance in God's love and provision.
We Think It Sufficient for the Daily Dinner
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 23:20LUK 21:341CO 10:31PHP 4:5COL 3:17St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of moderation and frugality in daily meals, suggesting two cooked dishes for dinner with a third dish of fruits or vegetables if available. He advises a sufficient amount of bread for the day, with a portion reserved for supper if needed. The Abbot has the authority to adjust the meals based on the workload, but over-indulgence is to be avoided at all costs, as it goes against the Christian character. St. Benedict quotes Jesus' warning against being burdened with over-indulgence in Luke 21:34.
Epistle 392
By George Fox0MAT 18:20MAT 28:18JHN 4:24ROM 12:211CO 13:7GAL 3:29GAL 5:22PHP 4:5PHP 4:8JAS 1:27George Fox emphasizes the importance of walking in the light of God's truth and spirit, surpassing all other religions and worships in purity, godliness, and love. He encourages believers to exhibit virtues such as meekness, kindness, and humility, reflecting the fruits of the spirit and the wisdom of God. Fox urges the congregation to remain steadfast in Christ, the sanctuary and savior, who provides life, peace, and salvation amidst the storms of the world.
St. Paul Arranges a Bouquet of Christian Graces.
By Daniel Steele0JHN 15:5EPH 4:32PHP 4:5COL 3:12JAS 3:17Daniel Steele preaches about the transformation of the apostles before and after the day of Pentecost, emphasizing the evidence of their new birth through Christ's declarations and the changes wrought in them by the Pentecostal gift. The sermon delves into the virtues displayed by the apostles post-Pentecost, such as tender-heartedness, kindness, gentleness, and fairness, which were empowered by the Holy Spirit. Steele highlights the importance of these milder virtues over heroic virtues, as they reflect the work of the Holy Spirit in believers and are essential for true Christian living and effective evangelism.
Let Your Moderation Be Known Unto All Men
By A.B. Simpson0Submission to GodConsecrationPRO 3:5MAT 16:24LUK 9:23ROM 12:11CO 9:24GAL 2:20PHP 4:5HEB 12:1JAS 4:101PE 5:6A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of true consecration, which involves not only surrendering wrongdoings but also relinquishing personal rights and submitting to God's authority. He explains that God often requires us to yield trivial matters to break our pride and self-will, enabling us to be effective vessels for His work. Many desire God's guidance while resisting any form of authority, leading to destructive attitudes that hinder spiritual power. Simpson warns that true Christian service demands a heart ready to yield to God's will, regardless of personal preferences or pressures.
Letter - to Elnathan Judd
By Charles Finney0The Power of PrayerUnity in the ChurchMAT 5:9JHN 17:21ROM 12:181CO 1:12EPH 4:3PHP 4:5COL 3:141TH 5:172TI 2:24JAS 1:19Charles Finney writes to Elnathan Judd, encouraging him to remain steadfast amidst the confusion and turmoil in Oneida County. He emphasizes the importance of prayer over controversy, warning against the divisive spirit that can arise during challenging times. Finney reassures Judd that despite the chaos, God's presence remains constant and that the church should focus on unity and love rather than conflict. He urges the preservation of a gentle spirit, reflecting the character of Jesus, and highlights the ongoing revival efforts in the region. Finney concludes with a call for prayer, believing it to be the key to overcoming the darkness and confusion.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let your moderation be known - The word επιεικες is of very extensive signification; it means the same as επιεικεια, mildness, patience, yieldingness, gentleness, clemency, moderation, unwillingness to litigate or contend; but moderation is expressive enough as a general term. "Moderation," says Dr. Macknight, "means meekness under provocation, readiness to forgive injuries, equity in the management of business, candour in judging of the characters and actions of others, sweetness of disposition, and the entire government of the passions." The Lord is at hand - A phrase something similar to the Maranatha of Co1 16:22 : The Lord is Judge, and is at hand to punish. Schoettgen supposes, from this verse, taken in connection with the preceding, that Euodias and Syntyche were of a quarrelsome disposition; and hence the exhortation and threatening in the third and fifth verses.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
moderation--from a Greek root, "to yield," whence yieldingness [TRENCH]; or from a root, "it is fitting," whence "reasonableness of dealing" [ALFORD], that considerateness for others, not urging one's own rights to the uttermost, but waiving a part, and thereby rectifying the injustices of justice. The archetype of this grace is God, who presses not the strictness of His law against us as we deserve (Psa 130:3-4); though having exacted the fullest payment for us from our Divine Surety. There are included in "moderation," candor and kindliness. Joy in the Lord raises us above rigorism towards others (Phi 4:5), and carefulness (Phi 4:6) as to one's own affairs. Sadness produces morose harshness towards others, and a troublesome spirit in ourselves. Let . . . be known--that is, in your conduct to others, let nothing inconsistent with "moderation" be seen. Not a precept to make a display of moderation. Let this grace "be known" to men in acts; let "your requests be made to God" in word (Phi 4:6). unto all men--even to the "perverse" (Phi 2:15), that so ye may win them. Exercise "forbearance" even to your persecutors. None is so ungracious as not to be kindly to someone, from some motive or another, on some occasion; the believer is to be so "unto all men" at all times. The Lord is at hand--The Lord's coming again speedily is the grand motive to every Christian grace (Jam 5:8-9). Harshness to others (the opposite of "moderation") would be taking into our own hands prematurely the prerogatives of judging, which belongs to the Lord alone (Co1 4:5); and so provoking God to judge us by the strict letter of the law (Jam 2:12-13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Let your moderation be known unto all men,.... The Vulgate Latin reads, "your modesty". The Syriac and Arabic versions, "your meekness", or "humility"; graces which accompany moderation, and are very necessary to it, but not that itself. The Ethiopic version renders it, "your authority", which by no means agrees; for moderation lies not in exerting authority and power to the uttermost, at least with rigour, but in showing clemency and lenity; not dealing with men according to the severity of laws and strict justice, but according to equity, and with mildness and gentleness; giving up strict and proper right, receding from what is a man's due, and not rigidly insisting on it; putting up with affronts and injuries, and bearing them with patience; and interpreting things in the best sense, and putting the best constructions on words and actions they will bear; and in using inferiors and equals with all humanity, kindness, and respect: and this is what is here intended, which the apostle would have made "known"; exercised and practised publicly, that it might be seen and known of all, and God might be glorified, by whose name they were called, though their agreeable conversation among men; see Mat 5:16; and he would not only have this known unto, but exercised towards "all men"; not only to believers, the members of the church, by ruling with gentleness, by bearing the infirmities of the weak, and by forgiving offences; but also to unbelievers, to the men of the world, by not avenging themselves, but giving way to wrath; by patient suffering for well doing, without making any returns of ill, either by words or deeds: this is the moderation here meant, and not moderation in eating and drinking, and in apparel, and in the love and use of, and care for the things of this world; though such moderation highly becomes professors of religion; and much less moderation in religion, or towards the false teachers, thinking and speaking well of them; and interpreting their notions in the best sense, hoping they may mean otherwise than they say, and therefore should treat their persons with great respect, and their principles with tenderness; but this can never be thought to be the apostle's sense, after he had himself given them such names and characters, as in Phi 3:2; and besides, though we may, and many times ought, as men and Christians, to give way, and yield up what is our right and due, for the sake of peace, yet we cannot, nor ought to give up anything, that of right belongs to God and Christ, in matters of doctrine or worship; nor in the least abate of our zeal for the same, or give way to false teachers in any respect, nor for any time: moreover, moderation in religion is nothing else but lukewarmness and indifference, than which nothing is more detestable, or abhorred by Christ. The argument or reason enforcing moderation in the above sense of it follows, the Lord is at hand. The Syriac version reads, "our Lord": and the Ethiopic version, "God is at hand". The sense is, either the Lord is near, he is omnipresent, and sees and observes the conduct of his people, their deportment in the world, and to one another; and therefore, as in his presence, and under his eye, they should behave according to equity, and with kindness and tenderness towards their fellow creatures and fellow Christians: or the Lord is nigh unto them, as he is to all that call upon him in truth, Psa 145:18; he is a present help in time of trouble, Psa 46:1; he is in the midst of them, and will help, and that right early, Psa 46:5; and will avenge his elect, and vindicate their cause, and right all their wrongs in his due time; and therefore they should take all things patiently, and not avenge themselves: or in a little while Christ will come to judgment, when he will plead the cause of his people, and convince ungodly sinners of their ungodly deeds, and hard speeches against him and his, Jde 1:15; and therefore they should leave all to that time, and commit themselves to him that judgeth righteously, Pe1 2:23.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5 Believers are to be considerate in their responses to others, even in persecution. They can afford to leave justice in God’s hands because they know the Lord is coming soon (cp. Jas 5:8-9).