What does Philippians 4:5 mean?

Explanation

Philippians 4:5 contains a call to restraint and an assertion of the imminent presence of the Lord.

The word "moderation" in the King James Version (KJV) can also be understood as gentleness or forbearance.

Essentially, the apostle Paul is instructing the believers in Philippi to make their gentle nature, their willingness to yield and their calmness of spirit evident to everyone - not just within the church, but openly, for all people to witness.

The latter part of the verse, "The Lord is at hand," offers a reason for this behavior: it might refer to the nearness of God's presence in a spiritual sense, or point to the impending return of Christ (parousia).

Historical Context

The apostle Paul is traditionally believed to have written the letter to the Philippians while he was imprisoned, around 62 AD. Philippi was a Roman colony in Macedonia, and the church there was among the earliest Christian communities.

In this verse, Paul is likely addressing an experience common in the early Christian communities - how to conduct themselves in a way that reflected their new faith amidst a pagan society while also anticipating the return of Christ.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, "moderation" or gentleness as a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) suggests that believers are to emulate Christ’s own gentleness.

The presence of the phrase "The Lord is at hand" can be interpreted eschatologically (pertaining to end times) as a reminder that Jesus’ return is imminent, influencing how Christians should live.

Alternatively, it can be interpreted as the nearness of God in a more general sense, emphasizing that God is always close and aware of our actions.

Practical Applications

In practice, this verse encourages individuals to display gentleness in their daily interactions, suggesting that a measured and calm demeanor can have a positive impact on both personal relationships and the broader community.

It underlines the idea that one's conduct can be a strong testimony of faith.

Remembering that the Lord is near can also help believers stay focused on living according to God's will and being ready for Christ’s return.

Cross-References

• Galatians 5:22-23 - "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,"
• James 5:8 - "Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh."
• Ephesians 4:2 - "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;"

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word translated as "moderation" is "ἐπιεικὲς" (epieikes), which can also mean "reasonable", "gentle", or "forbearing." The term suggests a willingness to yield to others and avoid strict enforcement of rights for the sake of peace.

The phrase "The Lord is at hand" translates from "ὁ κύριος ἐγγύς" (ho kyrios engys), where "ἐγγύς" (engys) means "near" in terms of time or physical proximity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient religions and myths, virtues such as moderation and gentleness are often praised but commonly within specific cultural contexts.

For instance, in Stoicism, a Hellenistic philosophy popular at the time of Paul, moderation is a key ethical principle represented in the cardinal virtue of temperance.

However, in Christian theology, such virtues carry a distinctive significance linked to the personal relationship with God and the expectation of Christ's return.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the practices of moderation and gentleness have been studied in various fields such as psychology. Studies show that such behaviors can reduce stress and improve mental health.

Moreover, the belief in a near or caring presence, akin to "The Lord is at hand," can provide psychological comfort and social cohesion, which can contribute positively to an individual’s well-being.

Commentaries

Commentators have diverse opinions on Philippians 4:5.

Some, like Matthew Henry, emphasize the social aspect of showing gentleness to all individuals.

Others, like John MacArthur, stress the eschatological urgency of living rightly in light of the imminent return of Christ.

Still, others may underscore the pastoral care aspect of Paul's instruction, noting that it's intended to nurture a community capable of sustaining pressures from both inside and outside while awaiting the fulfillment of God's kingdom.