提要
鑰節所在的這一段是四到九節，英文版(Day Unto Day New Open Bible)聖經在此訂的標題是：「與上帝和睦」。保羅在此仍在講論態度，或「心態」的問題（4：2）。
在第四節，保羅說：「你們要靠主常常喜樂，我再說，你們要喜樂！」有趣的是，「喜樂」一詞在希臘文，也常用作「再見」的意思。保羅大概本來要說「再見」，卻故意用雙關語，強調基督徒應該常有的態度：喜樂。
在第五節，保羅提到要有「謙讓」的心。有的英文譯本則譯為「節制」、「忍耐」、「和善」。因為腓立比教會乃處在一個成見很深的異教社會中，若不懷著謙讓的心，勢必容易和會外人士起衝突。再說，「主已經近了」。
讓我們誠實以對：假如我們真的相信「主已經近了」（神學家稱此為「緊迫事件」(imminence)），我們的態度、價值觀與行為，必會徹底受影響；祈禱、謝恩、和平（6、7節）和積極的思想（8節）自然接踵而至。隨時盼望主來能使我們的日子過得更有朝氣何時間為你們的日子開路。
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| Key Verse: | "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy — meditate on these things. "（Philippians 4:8） |
Overview
This key verse occurs in the context of verses 4-9, which my Day Unto Day New Open Bible has entitled, "Peace with the Lord". Paul is again addressing the attitude, or the "mind", that should characterize Christians. And, as was the case in chapter 2, his lofty words on attitude follow reference to petty differences within the church (4:2).
In verse 4 Paul says, "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say, rejoice!" It is interesting to note that "rejoice" in Greek was also used as a way of saying "Good-bye". Paul is about to say "Good-bye", and uses this double entendre to emphasize what the Christian attitude should generally (indeed — "always") be: joy.
As verse five reads, this joy was to be expressed in "moderation" (KJV), "forbearance" (RSV), and "gentleness" (NKJV and NIV). The Philippian Christians were surrounded by a heathen culture which misunderstood their strange Christian belief and practice. Rather than reacting defensively to misunderstanding and misrepresentation, Paul encourages the Philippians to respond with patience, if for no other reason than that "the Lord is at hand" (5b).
Let's face it: if we believe "the Lord is at hand" (theologians call this "imminence"), then our attitude, values, and behaviour will be drastically affected. Prayer, thanksgiving, peace (vv. 6,7), and excellent thinking (v. 8) will naturally follow. Expecting the Lord at any moment has a way of making your day.
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Prayer
Father God, we need Your daily grace upon us so we will be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, our requests will be made known to You. |
