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Philippians 1a: A gracious favor of joy to Philippi
1. Song: I've got the joy
The hymn "
I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart" was written in 1926 by American George W. Cooke (1884-1951).
He was associated with the Gospel Crusaders and
Methodist Church for many years.
The verses are almost the same except for changing one main word and sometimes a few other words.
2. Verse 1
I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy,
Down in my heart,
Down in my heart,
Down in my heart;
I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy,
Down in my heart,
Down in my heart to stay.
3. Review of joy
The English word
"joy" comes, through French, from the Latin word
"gaudia" ≈ "joy" and is the source of the word
"gaudy".
The ancient Greek word
"χαρά" ≈ "favor, grace" was the word used to translate the Hebrew word for "
favor" or "
grace".
English word
|
English meaning
|
Greek meaning
|
joy
|
merry, happy
|
favor, grace
|
rejoice
|
be merry, be happy
|
greetings hail
|
Note: The overlap in meanings between languages can be confusing.
This word is often translated as "
joy" but can easily be mistaken as the English word meaning "
merry" as in "
great happiness" having been influenced by the English word "
bliss".
4. Verse 1
Joy to the world, the Lord has come!
Let earth receive her King
Let every heart prepare Him room
And Heaven and nature sing
And Heaven and nature sing
And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing
5. Seeing is believing
Seeing may be believing but people see (or hear), what they want to see (or hear).
We see things not as they are, but as we are. H. M. Tomlinson.
How does one know if a message is from God or from an adversary?
Natural language, such as English or Greek, is
inherently ambiguous. Words can have more than one meaning. Words can sound like other words and used as a form of
nonverbal communication.
6. Time and fruit
Words can be ambiguous when context is omitted (or distorted).
Time flies like an arrow.
Fruit flies like a banana.
In this case, the former "
flies" is a verb while the latter "
flies" is a noun.
This is a linguistic example of syntactic ambiguity sometimes called a "
garden path sentence".
Meaning: "
I don't smell good" vs. "
I don't smell well".
7. Verse 2
Open my ears that I may hear
voices of truth thou sendest clear,
and while the wave notes fall on my ear,
ev’rything false will disappear.
Silently now I wait for thee,
ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my ears, illumine me,
Spirit divine!
8. Paragraph of recommendation
Here is a paragraph of recommendation.
To whom it may concern: You wrote to ask me for my opinion of John, who has applied for a position in your department.
I cannot recommend him too highly nor say enough good things about him.
There is no other student of mine with whom I can adequately compare him.
His thesis is the sort of work you don't expect to see nowadays and in it he has clearly demonstrated his complete capabilities.
The amount of material he knows will surprise you.
You will indeed be fortunate if you can get him to work for you.
Source: Paulos, J. (1995).
A mathematician reads the newspaper. New York: Basic Books., p. 43.
That is, while (many) computer languages are designed to be unambiguous, natural language is inherently ambiguous.
9. Philippians 1a: A gracious favor of joy to Philippi
Paul's opening verse in Philippians is revealing.
Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: [kjv]
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Is there more?
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Is there more?
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Might the mention of the (plural) "
bishops" and "
deacons" in the opening line, not found in other opening lines, indicate some type of power struggle within the Philippian church that has distracted them from their true goal?
When Paul writes something, it is most probably important.
10. Servants
Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: [kjv]
Paul uses "
servant" is he is a "
servant" of both "
Jesus" and the "
world".
Paul is not a "
slave" to "
Jesus".
The ancient and modern Greek word has a meaning of "
worker". Paul is doing the "
work" of Jesus. We are all "
workers" at some level. Do you "
own" or "
rent" your house and/or land?
One must be careful not to conflate the "
servant" meaning of Paul's time with the "
slave" meaning of the American Civil War era.
There are many similarities but also many differences. Some pastors will try to make political and social statements, not really supported by the Bible, by ignoring the differences.
Stirring up such "
strife" is one of the warnings given to the Philippians in a few verses. These verses are often skipped or otherwise changed to not bring undue attention to the political and/or social statements.
11. Introduction
As with most letters, Paul includes a somewhat boilerplate introduction and conclusion.
It is best to not make too many deep theological points about these parts. Rather, concentrate on the middle part. That is, the reason the letter was written.
12. Saints
The "
saints" are the "
holy" or "
sanctified" ones.
The Catholic church made this word into an official recognition as "
Saint".
13. Philippians 1:1
KJV: Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:
Greek: παυλος και τιμοθεος δουλοι ιησου χριστου ιησου πασιν τοις αγιοις εν χριστω ιησου τοις ουσιν εν φιλιπποις συν επισκοποις και διακονοις
Latin: Paulus et Timotheus servi Iesu Christi omnibus sanctis in Christo Iesu qui sunt Philippis cum episcopis et diaconis
Luther: Paulus und Timotheus, Knechte Jesu Christi: Allen Heiligen in Christo Jesu zu Philippi samt den Bischöfen und Dienern.
14. Bishops and deacons
Why are (plural) "
bishops" and "
deacons" are mentioned?
The Greek word for "
bishop" means, literally, someone who "
oversees" or "
visits".
The Greek word for "
deacon" comes from the Greek words for "
through the dust".
15. Bishops and deacons
Paul does not mention any "
bishop" nor "
deacon" in any other opening line to the seven churches to which we have letters from Paul.
16. Greek
17. Grace and peace to you
Philippians 1:2 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. [kjv]
"χαρά" ≈ "exultation" related to "ha-rah", "hail", "heil", etc.
"χάρις" ≈ "favor, grace" as used in the LXX (Septuagint).
Both are from "χαίρω" ≈ "to be happy" as in a greeting.
"μακάριος" ≈ "happy, content" as in "blessed".
One must be careful not to confuse the English word
"joy", as in bliss, with the
GNT (Greek New Testament) favor, grace, greeting, etc.
18. Holy Spirit
Paul mentions God the "
Father", Jesus tho "
Son", but not the "
Holy Spirit".
Paul will mention the "
Spirit" of Jesus in a later verse.
19. Peacemakers
Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. [kjv]
The Latin word "pax" ≈ "peace" as in the "Roman peace" made through military force.
20. Latin
21. Philippians 1:2
KJV: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Greek: χαρις υμιν και ειρηνη απο θεου πατρος ημων και κυριου ιησου χριστου
Latin: gratia vobis et pax a Deo Patre nostro et Domino Iesu Christo
22. Matthew 5:9
KJV: Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Greek: μακαριοι οι ειρηνοποιοι οτι αυτοι υιοι θεου κληθησονται
Latin: beati pacifici quoniam filii Dei vocabuntur
Tyndale: Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shalbe called the chyldren of God.
23. Thank you for giving thanks and for Thanksgiving
Matthew 26:27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; [kjv]
και λαβων ποτηριον και ευχαριστησας εδωκεν αυτοις λεγων πιετε εξ αυτου παντες [gnt]
Philippians 1:3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, [kjv]
ευχαριστω τω θεω μου επι παση τη μνεια υμων [gnt]
One way to say that something is a "
good favor" is to say "
thank you". This Greek word comes through Latin as "
Eucharist". The Greek word for "
favor" is often translated as "
grace" or "
joy". Jesus and Paul often say "
thank you".
24. Philippians 1:3
KJV: I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,
Greek: ευχαριστω τω θεω μου επι παση τη μνεια υμων
Latin: gratias ago Deo meo in omni memoria vestri
Luther: Ich danke meinem Gott, so oft ich euer gedenke
25. Thank you
26. Prayer and joy
Philippians 1:4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, [kjv]
Ancient Greek: What does "
always" mean?
Always "in every prayer of mine".
Always "in every prayer of mine for you" (just those prayers for you)
Is "
each" request with "
happiness" or "
joy",
or as a "
favor" or "
grace",
or both (play on words)?
Paul appears to be making these requests as a "
favor" to the Philippians. How is that? Read on.
27. Greek
28. Always
Philippians 1:4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, [kjv]
What does "
always" mean? Some choices:
Paul does this just in prayers that are for you.
Always in (every prayer of mine for you)
Paul does this in every prayer:
(Always in every prayer of mine) for you
29. Philippians 1:4
KJV: Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,
Greek: παντοτε εν παση δεησει μου υπερ παντων υμων μετα χαρας την δεησιν ποιουμενος
Latin: semper in cunctis orationibus meis pro omnibus vobis cum gaudio deprecationem faciens
Luther: (welches ich allezeit tue in allem meinem Gebet für euch alle, und tue das Gebet mit Freuden),
30. Fellowship in the Gospel
Philippians 1:5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; [kjv]
It started on the "
first day".
What is not said can be very important.
Will the "
until now" continue into the future?
Matthew 13:22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. [kjv]
Some translations will call the "
fellowship" or "
community" a "
partnership" which misrepresents the Greek word.
31. Fellowship in the Gospel
The Greek for "
fellowship" or "
community" should not be taken as "
partnership". Any "
partnership" would involve many more assumptions and details not knowable and not applicable in general.
The goal of "
fellowship" is made much more precise as a goal from what John writes in 1 John 1.
The Greek for "
gospel" is, literally, "
good news".
32. Philippians 1:5
KJV: For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;
Greek: επι τη κοινωνια υμων εις το ευαγγελιον απο της πρωτης ημερας αχρι του νυν
33. Matthew 13:22
KJV: He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
Greek: ο δε εις τας ακανθας σπαρεις ουτος εστιν ο τον λογον ακουων και η μεριμνα του αιωνος τουτου και η απατη του πλουτου συμπνιγει τον λογον και ακαρπος γινεται
34. Good works
Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: [kjv]
The good work was begun. Will it continue? Are they "
seeking"?
Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]
35. Philippians 1:6
KJV: Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
Greek: πεποιθως αυτο τουτο οτι ο εναρξαμενος εν υμιν εργον αγαθον επιτελεσει αχρις αχρι ημερας ιησου χριστου
36. Beginning
Philippians 1:6 …, that he which hath begun a good work in you … [kjv]
The ancient Greek word
"εναρξάμενοι" ≈ "having begun". This word as used appears made-up by Paul and to have an additional meaning.
"εν" ≈ "in".
"ἀρξάμενος" ≈ "begun rule" as an inflection of "ἄρχω" ≈ "begin, rule, lead" as in "monarch".
Have they begun in the spirit or are they attempting to "
self-rule" as in "
remain in the flesh" as they see fit?
This appears to be a pun on "
remaining in the flesh".
Where else does Paul use this word?
37. Modern Greek
38. Beginning
A synonym for the modern Greek word
"έναρξη" (EH-nar-ksee) ≈ "begin, start" is
"αρχή" (ar-KHEE) ≈ "beginning". The ancient Greek word
"ἀρχή" ≈ "beginning" but can also mean "
authority" or "
dominion" as is the basis for the Greek word for "
ruler".
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. [kjv]
εν αρχη εποιησεν ο θεος τον ουρανον και την γην [lxx]
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. [kjv]
εν αρχη ην ο λογος και ο λογος ην προς τον θεον και θεος ην ο λογος [gnt]
The
"beginning" aspect is the basis for the English word
"archaic" as being "
old".
What exactly is the
"beginning" in both Genesis 1:1 and John 1:1? Are they the same?
39. Genesis 1:1
KJV: In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
Hebrew: בראשית ברא אלהים את השמים ואת הארץ׃
Greek: εν αρχη εποιησεν ο θεος τον ουρανον και την γην
40. Strongs - having begun
- *G1728 *2 ἐνάρχομαι (en-ar'-khom-ahee) : from G1722 and G756; to commence on:--rule (by mistake for G757).
- εναρξαμενοι
- Galatians 3:3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now ...
- εναρξαμενος
- Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work ...
41. Galatians
Philippians 1:6 … that he which hath begun a good work in you … [kjv]
Paul uses this same unique word for "
hath begun" in Galatians where "
foolish" is
"ἀνόητος" ≈ "foolish, stupid, idiot" and means, literally "
not thinking".
Galatians 3:3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? [kjv]
Might a similar meaning be inferred in Philippians?
42. Galatians 3:3
KJV: Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?
Greek: ουτως ανοητοι εστε εναρξαμενοι πνευματι νυν σαρκι επιτελεισθε
43. Having begun a pun in the flesh
Philippians 1:6 …, that he which hath begun a good work in you … [kjv]
πεποιθως αυτο τουτο οτι ο εναρξαμενος εν υμιν εργον αγαθον επιτελεσει αχρι ημερας ιησου χριστου [gnt]
Considering the context, here is a possible pun, considering both Philippians 1:6 and Galatians 3:3.
"having begun in" as «εναρξαμενος» as "en-ar-ska-me-nos"
"in flesh remain" as «ενσαρκιμενος» as "en-sar-ki-me-nosn"
The pun words "
in flesh remain" in verse 6 are used directly in verse 24.
1:24 Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. [kjv]
το δε επιμενειν τη σαρκι αναγκαιοτερον δι υμας [gnt]
44. Philippians 1:24
KJV: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.
Greek: το δε επιμενειν εν τη σαρκι αναγκαιοτερον δι υμας
45. Apologetics
Why might it be "
more needful" for Paul to "
remain in the flesh"?
Philippians 1:7 Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. [kjv]
The
KJV (King James Version) "
meet" means "
right" as in "
righteous".
Give God what is right, not what is left.
The more figurative "
bonds" is not the physical "
chains". The word "
defense" is the word
"ἀπολογία" ≈ "speech made in defense" and is the source of the English words
"apology" and
"apologetics".
The word for "
gospel" is, literally, "
good news".
46. Socrates
Before Socrates was forced to drink poison after being condemned to death by the city "
democracy", he made a verbal defense of himself known as the "
Apology of Socrates" as written by Plato.
Paul is in a similar situation. He is in prison, in chains and facing what might be an eventual execution. Many think than the written documents to support his "
apology" are the books of Luke and Acts, both researched, compiled and written by Luke.
0
47. Philippians 1:7
KJV: Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.
Greek: καθως εστιν δικαιον εμοι τουτο φρονειν υπερ παντων υμων δια το εχειν με εν τη καρδια υμας εν τε τοις δεσμοις μου και εν τη απολογια και βεβαιωσει του ευαγγελιου συγκοινωνους μου της χαριτος παντας υμας οντας
Latin: sicut est mihi iustum hoc sentire pro omnibus vobis eo quod habeam in corde vos et in vinculis meis et in defensione et confirmatione evangelii socios gaudii mei omnes vos esse
48. Apologetics
1 Peter 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: [kjv]
The "
answer" is the Greek "
apology" as in a "
verbal defense".
The "
reason" is the Greek "
logic" process of your reasoning.
Be careful not to clobber people with logic. Most cannot tell valid logic from "
eristic" (invalid and augmentative) logic.
The Greek for "
hope" is that of an "
expectation".
49. 1 Peter 3:15
KJV: But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
Greek: κυριον δε τον θεον χριστον αγιασατε εν ταις καρδιαις υμων ετοιμοι δε αει προς απολογιαν παντι τω αιτουντι υμας λογον περι της εν υμιν ελπιδος αλλα μετα πραυτητος και φοβου
50. Projection
Aristotle, in his
On Sophistical Refutations, details (at least)
12 ways to use bad or "
sophistic" logic.
Eristic reasoning is one of them.
One technique of "
eristic" (faulty and contentious) logic is to accuse the other side of what you are doing. This tends to confuse those who cannot determine what is valid logic and what is not valid logic.
A name for this in psychology is "
projection" as one projects one's own ideas, faults, etc., onto others.
51. Word usage - eristic
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Words: ερεθιζετε εριδες εριδι εριδος εριθεια εριθειαι=2 εριθειαν=2 εριθειας=2 εριν=2 ερις=4 ερισει ηρεθισεν
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52. Bowels of Jesus Christ
Philippians 1:8 For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. [kjv]
μαρτυς γαρ μου ο θεος ως επιποθω παντας υμας εν σπλαγχνοις ιησου χριστου ιησου [gnt]
testis … visceribus … [v]
Jesus
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church
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prudent
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wise
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gut feeling
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head knowledge
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active
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passive
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The Greek for passive "
record" is that of being an active "
witness".
The Greek word for "
bowels" has to do with an active "
gut feeling"or being "
prudent" with "
street smarts" rather than passive "
wisdom" that is "
head knowledge".
53. Philippians 1:8
KJV: For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.
Greek: μαρτυς γαρ μου εστιν ο θεος ως επιποθω παντας υμας εν σπλαγχνοις ιησου χριστου ιησου
Latin: testis enim mihi est Deus quomodo cupiam omnes vos in visceribus Christi Iesu
54. Knowledge and judgment
Philippians 1:9 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; [kjv]
The ancient Greek word "ἐπίγνωσις" ≈ "examination, scrutiny" - not just "head knowledge".
The ancient Greek word "αἴσθησις" ≈ "senses, sensation" from which comes the English word "aesthetics" (pertaining to the senses).
Is Paul telling them to be "
sensible" and "
come to their senses"?
As in most languages, a prefix to a word does
not intensify that word. It (usually)
changes the meaning of that word.
A word related to the Greek word for "
aesthetic" is the Latin word
"audio" ≈ "hear, listen".
55. Good judgment
How does one get good judgment?
Good judgment comes from experience. Experience comes from bad judgment.
56. Modern Greek
57. Philippians 1:9
KJV: And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;
Greek: και τουτο προσευχομαι ινα η αγαπη υμων ετι μαλλον και μαλλον περισσευη εν επιγνωσει και παση αισθησει
58. Testing and approval
Philippians 1:10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; … [kjv]
The English word
"approve" (in a modern
passive way) is the Greek for "
test out" or "
try out" (in an
active way).
The
KJV uses "
excellent" but the Greek word means "
different".
As in:
That you may try out those things that are different.
59. Philippians 1:10
KJV: That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;
Hebrew: למען תבחנו את המבחרות והייתם זכים ובלי מכשול עד יום המשיח׃
Greek: εις το δοκιμαζειν υμας τα διαφεροντα ινα ητε ειλικρινεις και απροσκοποι εις ημεραν χριστου
Latin: ut probetis potiora ut sitis sinceres et sine offensa in diem Christi
60. Sincere
Philippians 1:10 … that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; [kjv]
Instead of "
pure", Paul uses the ancient Greek word
"ειλικρινής" ≈ "sincere" as in separated by the light of the sun. Are they being "
sincere" as in being "
frank" and "
telling it like it is"?
The second part of the word is the ancient Greek word
"κρίνω" ≈ "separate" as in the first part of a judging process and often translated "
judge" in English (which can be misleading).
This same word is used by Peter in the
GNT.
2 Peter 3:1 This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: [kjv]
61. Strongs - sincere
- *G1505 *3 εἰλικρίνεια (i-lik-ree'-ni-ah) : from G1506 εἰλικρινής; clearness, i.e. (by implication) purity (figuratively):--sincerity.
- ειλικρινιας *2
- 1 Corinthians 5:8 ... but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.
- 2 Corinthians 2:17 ... but as of sincerity, but as of ...
- ειλικρινια
- 2 Corinthians 1:12 ... simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly ...
- *G1506 *0 εἰλικρινής (i-lik-ree-nace') : from heile (the sun's ray) and G2919; judged by sunlight, i.e. tested as genuine (figuratively):--pure, sincere.
- ειλικρινεις
- Philippians 1:10 ... that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till ...
- ειλικρινη
- 2 Peter 3:1 ... both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance:
62. Modern Greek
63. 2 Peter 3:1
KJV: This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance:
Greek: ταυτην ηδη αγαπητοι δευτεραν υμιν γραφω επιστολην εν αις διεγειρω υμων εν υπομνησει την ειλικρινη διανοιαν
64. Without offense
Philippians 1:10 … that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; [kjv]
The "
without offense", only used by Paul, is interesting. The letter started with (multiple) "
bishops".
These Greek words of Paul differ only in the prefix.
"ἐπίσκοποι" ≈ "bishops"
"ἀπροσκοποί" ≈ "without offenses"
"σκοπός" ≈ "watcher, target"
Will the "
bishops" be "
pure" and "
without offenses" at the day of Christ? Will they change their ways? Is that within "
scope"!
65. Catchy sayings
66. Strongs - try out
- *G1381 *23 δοκιμάζω (dok-im-ad'-zo) : from G1384; to test (literally or figuratively); by implication, to approve:--allow, discern, examine, X like, (ap-)prove, try.
- δοκιμαζετε *4
- Luke 12:56 Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern ...
- 2 Corinthians 13:5 ... ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not ...
- 1 Thessalonians 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
- 1 John 4:1 ... every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are ...
- δοκιμαζειν *3
- Luke 12:56 Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern ...
- Romans 12:2 ... mind, that ye may prove what is that good, ...
- Philippians 1:10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be ...
- δοκιμαζετω *2
- 1 Corinthians 11:28 But let a man examine himself, and ...
- Galatians 6:4 But let every man prove his own work, ...
- δοκιμασαι
- Luke 14:19 ... of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee ...
- εδοκιμασαν
- Romans 1:28 And even as they did not like to retain God ...
- δοκιμαζεις
- Romans 2:18 And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;
- δοκιμαζει
- Romans 14:22 ... himself in that thing which he alloweth.
- δοκιμασει
- 1 Corinthians 3:13 ... fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
- δοκιμασητε
- 1 Corinthians 16:3 And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them ...
- δοκιμαζων
- 2 Corinthians 8:8 ... of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.
- εδοκιμασαμεν
- 2 Corinthians 8:22 ... brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in ...
- δοκιμαζοντες
- Ephesians 5:10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.
- δεδοκιμασμεθα
- 1 Thessalonians 2:4 But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.
- δοκιμαζοντι
- 1 Thessalonians 2:4 But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.
- δοκιμαζεσθωσαν
- 1 Timothy 3:10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, ...
- δοκιμασια
- Hebrews 3:9 ... fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw ...
- δοκιμαζομενου
- 1 Peter 1:7 ... that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found ...
67. Strongs - different
- *G1308 *13 διαφέρω (dee-af-er'-o) : from G1223 and G5342; to bear through, i.e. (literally) transport; usually to bear apart, i.e. (objectively) to toss about (figuratively, report); subjectively, to "differ", or (by implication) surpass:--be better, carry, differ from, drive up and down, be (more) excellent, make matter, publish, be of more value.
- διαφερετε *4
- Matthew 6:26 ... feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
- Matthew 10:31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.
- Luke 12:7 ... Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.
- Luke 12:24 ... how much more are ye better than the fowls?
- διαφερει *4
- Matthew 12:12 How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore ...
- 1 Corinthians 15:41 ... of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory.
- Galatians 2:6 ... (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God ...
- Galatians 4:1 ... he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though ...
- διαφεροντα *2
- Romans 2:18 ... his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;
- Philippians 1:10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere ...
- διενεγκη
- Mark 11:16 ... suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple.
- διεφερετο
- Acts 13:49 And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region.
- διαφερομενων
- Acts 27:27 ... night was come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about ...
68. Strongs - pure
- *G1506 *0 εἰλικρινής (i-lik-ree-nace') : from heile (the sun's ray) and G2919; judged by sunlight, i.e. tested as genuine (figuratively):--pure, sincere.
- ειλικρινεις
- Philippians 1:10 ... that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till ...
- ειλικρινη
- 2 Peter 3:1 ... both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance:
69. Strongs - blameless
- *G677 *3 ἀπρόσκοπος (ap-ros'-kop-os) : from G1 (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of G4350; actively, inoffensive, i.e. not leading into sin; passively, faultless, i.e. not led into sin:--none (void of, without) offence.
- απροσκοποι *2
- 1 Corinthians 10:32 Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, ...
- Philippians 1:10 ... ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;
- απροσκοπον
- Acts 24:16 ... to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.
70. Greek
71. Fruits
Philippians 1:11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. [kjv]
Are they filled?
Are they in the process of being filled?
Will they ever be filled?
72. Philippians 1:11
KJV: Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.
Greek: πεπληρωμενοικαρπων καρπον δικαιοσυνης των τον δια ιησου χριστου εις δοξαν και επαινον θεου
Latin: repleti fructu iustitiae per Christum Iesum in gloriam et laudem Dei
Luther: erfüllet mit Früchten der Gerechtigkeit, die durch Jesum Christum geschehen (in euch) zu Ehre und Lobe Gottes.
73. All things work together
Philippians 1:12 But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; [kjv]
The "
understand" is a "
willful" and "
purposeful" attitude.
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. [kjv]
It would appear (following verses) that some have taken advantage of Paul's absence to blame him (or his sin) for his own misfortune.
74. Philippians 1:12
KJV: But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;
Greek: γινωσκειν δε υμας βουλομαι αδελφοι οτι τα κατ εμε μαλλον εις προκοπην του ευαγγελιου εληλυθεν
75. Palaces and elsewhere
Philippians 1:13 So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; [kjv]
Paul is in prison in chains but he uses the word "
bonds",
not "
chains". There is a good purpose for this as a witness to others (in the palace) and (legally) to Caesar.
Do some (leaders of the) Philippians have the appropriate "
bonds" or might it be a "
mental block"? Paul says "
my bonds". What about "
your bonds"?
76. Philippians 1:13
KJV: So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;
Greek: ωστε τους δεσμους μου φανερους εν χριστω γενεσθαι εν ολω τω πραιτωριω και τοις λοιποις πασιν
Latin: ita ut vincula mea manifesta fierent in Christo in omni praetorio et in ceteris omnibus
77. Brethren and bonds
Philippians 1:14 And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. [kjv]
Since Paul is "
out of the way", some "
dare" to speak the word "
recklessly" and "
without fear" (from God or Paul).
The ancient Greek word "τόλμα" ≈ "courage, recklessness"
This is not the good "
bold" as in as in "
speaking frankly" to "
tell it like it is" which Paul will use of himself in verse 20.
This is the ancient Greek word
"τολμάω" ≈ "dare" to the point of being "
reckless" which, here, is not good.
Are they speaking the true word? What is the goal?
78. Greek
79. Philippians 1:14
KJV: And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
Greek: και τους πλειονας των αδελφων εν κυριω πεποιθοτας τοις δεσμοις μου περισσοτερως τολμαν αφοβως τον λογον του θεου λαλειν
Latin: et plures e fratribus in Domino confidentes vinculis meis abundantius audere sine timore verbum Dei loqui
Luther: und viel Brüder in dem Herrn aus meinen Banden Zuversicht gewonnen, desto türstiger worden sind, das Wort zu reden ohne Scheu.
80. Strongs - dare
- *G5111 *16 τολμάω (tol-mah'-o) : from tolma (boldness; probably itself from the base of G5056 through the idea of extreme conduct); to venture (objectively or in act; while 2292 is rather subjective or in feeling); by implication, to be courageous:--be bold, boldly, dare, durst.
- ετολμα *4
- Mark 12:34 ... And no man after that durst ask him any question.
- John 21:12 ... And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who ...
- Acts 5:13 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: ...
- Acts 7:32 ... Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold.
- τολμα *3
- Romans 5:7 ... a good man some would even dare to die.
- 1 Corinthians 6:1 Dare any of you, having a matter against ...
- 2 Corinthians 11:21 ... whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also.
- ετολμησεν *2
- Matthew 22:46 ... him a word, neither durst any man from that ...
- Jude 1:9 ... about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a ...
- τολμησας
- Mark 15:43 ... of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and ...
- ετολμων
- Luke 20:40 And after that they durst not ask him any question at all.
- τολμησω
- Romans 15:18 For I will not dare to speak of any of those things ...
- τολμησαι
- 2 Corinthians 10:2 ... when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which ...
- τολμωμεν
- 2 Corinthians 10:12 For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ...
- τολμω
- 2 Corinthians 11:21 ... whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also.
- τολμαν
- Philippians 1:14 ... my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
81. Eyes on the prize
Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. [kjv]
κατα σκοπον διωκω εις το βραβειον της ανω κλησεως του θεου εν χριστω ιησου [gnt]
How does one know if one is aiming for the correct target?
You might have "
accepted" the "
false goal" and "
rejected" the "
true goal".
Paul is aiming for the correct target. How about the Philippians?
The Greek for "
press" is that of "
pursue" or "
persecute" depending on context.
Keep the eyes on the prize. The Greek word for "
prize" is the source of the English word
"bravo".
82. Philippians 3:14
KJV: I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Greek: κατα σκοπον διωκω επι εις το βραβειον της ανω κλησεως του θεου εν χριστω ιησου
Latin: ad destinatum persequor ad bravium supernae vocationis Dei in Christo Iesu
Geneva: And follow hard toward the marke, for the prise of the hie calling of God in Christ Iesus.
Luther: und jage nach dem vorgesteckten Ziel, nach dem Kleinod, welches vorhält die himmlische Berufung Gottes in Christo Jesu.
83. Preaching
Philippians 1:15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: [kjv]
τινες μεν και δια φθονον και εριν τινες δε και δι ευδοκιαν τον χριστον κηρυσσουσιν [gnt]
1:16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: [kjv]
Paul is reasoning using a type of "
syllogism"
Both "strife" and "contention" are that of "eristic" arguments.
The "sincerely" is that of innocence or "pure" motives.
The "good will" is that of "wishful thinking".
How would one use "
contention" to "
add affliction" to another?
Some might have said that Paul must have sinned since he is in chains.
84. Types of jealousy
The Greek has several words for "
envy" or "
jealousy".
"Destructive" competition to "seek" the same goal ("zeal").
Dispersive competition for different goals (other Greek word).
Note the linguistic change of active "zealous" to passive "jealous".
In each case, groups may use "
eristic" (invalid and contentious) logic to persuade competing group members into their camp.
85. Seek
Groups may "
seek" the same goal.
86. Zeal
Groups may seek the same goal with "
zeal" - as in competition for the same goal.
Zero-sum games - sports (I win, you lose).
These groups may use "
eristic" (faulty) reasoning to sway members from other groups to join their group.
According to Aristotle, "
eristic" (win at all costs) reasoning becomes "
sophistic" (sophisticated) when it is done for money (i.e., one's belly).
87. Damage
Damage may result from groups seeking the same goal with "
zeal", as in competition for the same goal, often using "
eristic" (faulty) reasoning. Such faulty reasoning is often translated as "
strife" or "
contention" (though Greek has words for those concepts).
88. Greek words
In Greek, the words for "
seek", "
zeal" and "
damage" are related and appear to have developed in that order.
The Greek for "
zeal" is that one is "
competing" for the same "
goal" with "
others" as "
rivals".
89. Philippians
In Philippians 1:15, Paul uses a different Greek word for "
jealousy" that appears to indicate that, rather than competing for the same goal (e.g., the truth of Jesus), the church leadership is competing against each other for different goals or directions (none being the truth of Jesus).
Philippians 1:15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: [kjv]
τινες μεν και δια φθονον και εριν τινες δε και δι ευδοκιαν τον χριστον κηρυσσουσιν [gnt]
The "strife" is that of bad or invalid logic (horns).
The "good will" is that of personal opinion (spots).
90. Philippians 1:15
KJV: Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:
Greek: τινες μεν και δια φθονον και εριν τινες δε και δι ευδοκιαν τον χριστον κηρυσσουσιν
91. Church groups
In a church setting, the groups with destructive behaviors are part of the church. That is, an "
inside attack" rather than an "
external attack".
In this case, the "
goal" is not damaged directly, but the groups damage themselves such that they may not reach the goal.
92. Philippians
In this verse, Paul uses another word for "
zeal" that is still destructive.
It appears that, rather than competing for the same goal, they are competing, using "
eristic" logic, etc., for different goals.
Only the true goal is without damage (to the groups).
93. Innocent
94. Philippians 1:16
KJV: The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:
Greek: οι μεν εξ εριθειας τον χριστον καταγγελλουσιν ουχ αγνως οιομενοι θλιψιν επιφερειν τοις δεσμοις μου αγαπης ειδοτες οτι εις απολογιαν του ευαγγελιου κειμαι
95. Preaching of love
Philippians 1:17 But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. [kjv]
There appear to be competing points of view with each group trying to sway the other group into their camp using "
eristic" logic.
The same Greek word for "
apology" as in "
verbal defense" is used.
This eristic (bad) logic (by some) causes commotion or strife.
96. Philippians 1:17
KJV: But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.
Greek: οι δε εξ αγαπης ειδοτες οτι εις απολογιαν του ευαγγελιου κειμαι εριθειας τον χριστον καταγγελλουσιν ουχ αγνως οιομενοι θλιψιν εγειρειν τοις δεσμοις μου
97. Pretend or truth
Philippians 1:18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I there in do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. [kjv]
Even "
false teachers" may benefit some listeners as those teachers "
cherry pick" verses to promote their own views.
The Greek for "
pretense" or "
pretend" is, literally, "
pretext" as in a "
show" or "
phase" as in (a deceptive) appearance.
Paul does "
rejoice" and, hopefully, "
will rejoice".
98. Phases
The Greek word for "
phase" was for appearance.
There are "
phases" of the moon as the moon changes appearance during the month.
The word "
phase" took on the additional meaning of a changes over time.in addition to appearance.
Example: That is just a phase through which the child is going.
99. Pretend or truth
Philippians 1:18 … whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; …. [kjv]
Paul tries to look on the good side of things.
From what Paul writes, the Philippians need to be careful.
The English word
"pretext" is from the Latin and related to the English word
"pretend".
100. Philippians 1:18
KJV: What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I there in do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.
Greek: τι γαρ πλην οτι παντι τροπω ειτε προφασει ειτε αληθεια χριστος καταγγελλεται και εν τουτω χαιρω αλλα και χαρησομαι
Latin: quid enim dum omni modo sive per occasionem sive per veritatem Christus adnuntiatur et in hoc gaudeo sed et gaudebo
101. Strongs - pretext
- *G4392 *6 πρόφασις (prof'-as-is) : from a compound of G4253 and G5316; an outward showing, i.e. pretext:--cloke, colour, pretence, show.
- προφασει *5
- Mark 12:40 ... widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayers: ...
- Luke 20:47 ... widows' houses, and for a shew make long prayers: ...
- Acts 27:30 ... the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have cast ...
- Philippians 1:18 ... every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ ...
- 1 Thessalonians 2:5 ... as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:
- προφασιν
- John 15:22 ... now they have no cloke for their sin.
102. Truth
The Bible is not a logical system of truth.
The Bible is not an opinion system of truth.
The Bible is a reality system of truth.
John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. [kjv]
103. Greek
104. Song: This is the day
The word "
rejoice" appears often in the song "
This is the day" from 1967 by Les Garrett. The phrase "
This is the day" refers to
the "
day" and not
a "
day".
Psalms 118:22 The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. [kjv]
λιθον ον απεδοκιμασαν οι οικοδομουντες ουτος εγενηθη εις κεφαλην γωνιας [lxx]
118:23 This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. [kjv]
παρα κυριου εγενετο αυτη και εστιν θαυμαστη εν οφθαλμοις ημων [lxx]
118:24 This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. [kjv]
αυτη η ημερα ην εποιησεν ο κυριος αγαλλιασωμεθα και ευφρανθωμεν εν αυτη [lxx]
That "
day" was originally the Passover before the Exodus but was to be a sign of the Messiah. Jesus entered on that day, "
Palm Sunday", with that song which angered the religious establishment.
105. Verse 1a
This is the day, this is the day
that the Lord has made,
that the Lord has made;
we will rejoice,
we will rejoice and be glad in it,
and be glad in it.
106. Verse 1b
This is the day that the Lord has made;
we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day,
this is the day that the Lord has made.
107. Summary
Paul starts his letter to the Philippians using some words that have double meanings.
On closer inspection, there are those at the church at Philippi who need to change their ways.
Paul is tactful in pointing this out.
The verses can be misinterpreted in modern English to be saying things that Paul did not really intend to say.
The content of Philippians 1 is completed at
Philippians 1b: A gracious favor of joy to Philippi.
108. End of page