After completing his
thoughts concerning suffering as a Christian for the sake of the
gospel, in chapter two and verse one of his letter to the Philippian
church Paul the apostle begins to encourage the members with a series
of “ifs” where we read:
If
there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort
of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
The verse begins, “If
there be therefore any consolation in Christ,...”
Paul begins his encouragement
with the word “if” which
means “then, therefore, accordingly, consequently, or these
things being so” and implies the word “since” which is a
conclusion-like term. He wrote, “If there be therefore” or
“since there is therefore” “any consolation” which is
the Greek word “paraklēsis” and
means “a calling near, summons, (esp. for help), importation,
supplication, entreaty, exhortation, admonition, encouragement,
consolation, comfort, solace; that which affords comfort or
refreshment”. He added “in Christ” which
denotes from where true “consolation” comes
- Jesus Himself.
The
verse goes on to say, “ if any comfort of love,...”
Paul uses another “if”
and adds “any comfort”
which means “a persuasive address” “of love” which
is the Greek word “agape”, and as we have learned before “agape”
means “an unconditional love”. Not only is there is a coming
alongside in Christ, but there is also “agape” love for the
Christian.
The
verse continues, “if any fellowship of the Spirit,...”
Paul continues his thoughts with
yet another “if”
and adds “any fellowship”
which is the Greek word “koinonia” and means “fellowship,
association, community, communion, or joint participation”. This
special unity and connection between the saints comes “of the
Spirit” or by unity with the Spirit of God.
Finally
the verse says, “if any bowels and mercies,...” Paul uses
one more conditional “if” and resources “any bowels”
which is the deepest seat of emotions and “mercies” which
are “compassions and pities” upon others in his final plea. Those
who have “consolation in Christ”, “comfort of love”,
and “fellowship of the Spirit” will have “bowels and
mercies” upon one another.
As we
think over these four “ifs”, do we find these qualities within
ourselves and within our church? Do we have “consolation in
Christ”, “comfort of love”, “fellowship of the
Spirit” and “bowels and mercies” toward others who
are around us? It is obvious that Paul had the church at Philippi
examining themselves for these traits as he began this new area of
encouragement, and as we imagine ourselves in their place, perhaps it
will help us to review these areas and seek the Lord in prayer for
His help with adopting them into our lives. Of course, this will only
aid us “if” we are willing to seek Him.
Next
time Paul gives his instructions for when they follow his “ifs”,
so read ahead, and we shall join together then.
Until
tomorrow...there is more...
Look
for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From
Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be
Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the
Mount” in all major bookstore sites, www.amazon.com ;
www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at
www.mrzlc.com/bookstore
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