A Few Thoughts about John 14:15

John 14:15 ESV If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

Judas has left Jesus and his fellow apostles. He has joined with satan and turned against the Lord Jesus.

Jesus brings His farewell message to His followers. This is recorded in John 13:31-John 16:33.

In John 13:31-16:33, the Lord Jesus uses the word love 19 times. 18 times it is the Greek word ἀγαπάω agapáō, which is the highest love. It is a choosing to love and loyalty. 1 time it is the Greek word φιλέω philéō, which means personal affection and personal attachment.

Jesus teaches them that if they really love Him, they will keep His commandments.

The Greek word for keep is τηρέω tēréō. It means to guard in the sense of

B1 Some thoughts

C1 Wuest Word Studies: Keep" is tēreō, "to keep by guarding, to guard by exercising watchful cafe." It speaks of guarding something which is in one’s possession.

C2 Examples:

D1 John 17:12 CSB While I was with them, I was protecting them by your name that you have given me. I guarded them and not one of them is lost, except the son of destruction, so that the Scripture may be fulfilled. [Emphasis added. The word guarded is φυλάσσω phylássō, which means be on guard (literally of figuratively); by implication, to preserve, obey, avoid].

D2 John 17:15 CSB I am not praying that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.

B2 In a sense, there is the idea of conforming our lives in body, soul, and spirit to do His commandments in love and loyalty for Him.

The Greek word for commandments is ἐντολή entolḗ. It means

B1 generally, a charge, injunction, order, command [Source is Greek Lexicon Of The New Testament, Abbott-Smith].

B2 From TDNTa

C1 entolḗ in the General Usage of the Greek and Hellenistic World. The meaning is “command,” “commission,” a. as the command of a king or official, b. as the instruction of a teacher, c. as a commission, and d. as authorization.

C2 Keeping Christ’s entolaí is a mark of love for Christ (Jn. 14:15, 21). If we love him, we both “have” and “keep” them. In view of the basis, the plural entolaí is not legalistic. The many commands are summed up in the one command of love, which comes to expression in the multiple spheres of the obedient life. In the light of Jn. 15:10 “task” or “commission” might also be embraced by entolḗ, but tereín tás entolás means “keeping the commandments,” not “fulfilling a commission.” Comparison of the disciples’ keeping of the commandments with the Son’s doing of the Father’s work shows that a personal relationship is involved, especially in view of the common abiding in love. [Source is TDNTa]

B3 Commandment is the verbal or written desire of an authority and backed by that authority. Law is the sum of verbal or written commands. Command is to one person or more depending on the context, while law is for all those under that authority. It is the set of commands.

Some thoughts

B1 Robertson: Continued love prevents disobedience.

B2 Adam Clarke: Do not be afflicted at the thought of my being separated from you: the most solid proof ye can give of your attachment to and affection for me is to keep my commandments. This I shall receive as a greater proof of your affection than your tears.

B3 One of the proofs that we are a believer is to conform, do, keep, observe the commandments and rules of the Lord Jesus. One of the purposes of 1 John is for us to examine our lives to see if we are in the faith. We cannot be sinless but can be blameless. If we sin, we confess and with God’s help do not sin again. We often do but we must ask forgiveness again. 1 John 5:1-3 NRSV Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the parent loves the child. 2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. 3 For the love of God is this, that we obey his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.

B4 This might seem impossible, but the Lord Jesus reveals something: And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever (John 14:1 ESV). [Emphasis added]. Jesus was the helper while ministering on earth. He now intercedes for us (Hebrews 7:23-25 ESV The former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office, 24 but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. 25 Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them). The Holy Spirit is our helper now. He encourages, reminds, gives strength to resist, protects, etc. Note, too, that He will be with us forever. God’s grace never ends. We need grace every moment of our life. See Hebrews 4:16, 2 Corinthians 12:9-12, James 4:6, and John 1:16.

John 14:15 ESV If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

B1 With God’s help our love will be seen in what we do.

B2 The standard of these doings is Jesus’s commands.

B3 We are loyal to God because of love, not force, bullying, gun, sword, fist, abuse, threats, etc.

B4 To John there is only one test of love and that is obedience. It was by his obedience that Jesus showed his love of God; and it is by our obedience that we must show our love of Jesus. C. K. Barrett says: "John never allowed love to devolve into a sentiment or emotion. Its expression is always moral and is revealed in obedience." We know all too well how there are those who protest their love in words but who, at the same time, bring pain and heartbreak to those whom they claim to love. There are children and young people who say that they love their parents, and who yet cause them grief and anxiety. There are husbands who say they love their wives and wives who say they love their husbands, and who yet, by their inconsiderateness and their irritability and their thoughtless unkindness bring pain the one to the other. To Jesus real love is not an easy thing. It is shown only in true obedience. [Source Barclay Daily Bible Study. Be cautious].

B5 Let us be joyful, be encouraging to each other, be helping each other, be faithful and steadfast until the end utilizing God’s good grace. Colossians 3:12 NLT Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

We grow by reading, studying, and living the Scriptures: 2 Peter 3:18 GNB But continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory, now and forever! Amen.

We are to be a light to the world of God’s best ways for living. Ephesians 5:8-9 GNB You yourselves used to be in the darkness, but since you have become the Lord's people, you are in the light. So you must live like people who belong to the light, 9 for it is the light that brings a rich harvest of every kind of goodness, righteousness, and truth.

Pray: Psalms 86:6 ESV Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace.

Thank you, Lord, for your blessings and help. Give us strength to live for you.

A Few Thoughts About Love on Valentine’s Day

Love is a choice

B1 1 John 4:10-11 NRSV In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11 Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another.

B2 Deuteronomy 30:19-20 GNB I am now giving you the choice between life and death, between God's blessing and God's curse, and I call heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Choose life. 20 Love the LORD your God, obey him and be faithful to him, and then you and your descendants will live long in the land that he promised to give your ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob."

B3 Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, Vine - Love

Verb, agapao, G25

and the corresponding noun agape (B, No. 1 below) present "the characteristic word of Christianity, and since the Spirit of revelation has used it to express ideas previously unknown, inquiry into its use, whether in Greek literature or in the Septuagint, throws but little light upon its distinctive meaning in the NT. Cp., however, Lev 19:18; Deut 6:5.

"Agape and agapao are used in the NT (a) to describe the attitude of God toward His Son, John 17:26; the human race, generally, 3:16; Rom 5:8; and to such as believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, particularly, John 14:21; (b) to convey His will to His children concerning their attitude one toward another, 13:34, and toward all men, 1Th 3:12; 1Co 16:14; 2Pe 1:7; (c) to express the essential nature of God, 1Jo 4:8.

"Love can be known only from the actions it prompts. God's love is seen in the gift of His Son, 1Jo 4:9-10. But obviously this is not the love of complacency, or affection, that is, it was not drawn out by any excellency in its objects, Rom 5:8. It was an exercise of the Divine will in deliberate choice, made without assignable cause save that which lies in the nature of God Himself, Cp. Deut 7:7-8.

"Love had its perfect expression among men in the Lord Jesus Christ, 2Co 5:14; Eph 2:4; 3:19; 5:2; Christian love is the fruit of His Spirit in the Christian, Gal 5:22.

"Christian love has God for its primary object, and expresses itself first of all in implicit obedience to His commandments, John 14:15, 21, 23; 15:10; 1Jo 2:5; 5:3; 2Jo 1:6. Self-will, that is, self-pleasing, is the negation of love to God.

"Christian love, whether exercised toward the brethren, or toward men generally, is not an impulse from the feelings, it does not always run with the natural inclinations, nor does it spend itself only upon those for whom some affinity is discovered. Love seeks the welfare of all, Rom 15:2, and works no ill to any, 13:8-10; love seeks opportunity to do good to 'all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith,' Gal 6:10. see further1 Cor. 13 and Col 3:12-14." * [* From Notes on Thessalonians, by Hogg and Vine, p. 105.]

In respect of agapao as used of God, it expresses the deep and constant "love" and interest of a perfect Being towards entirely unworthy objects, producing and fostering a reverential "love" in them towards the Giver, and a practical "love" towards those who are partakers of the same, and a desire to help others to seek the Giver.

Love is an action

B1 If we love, there are attitudes and actions that will reveal itself.

B2 These attitudes and actions are in private, as well as, in public.

B3 Love is according to God’s standard, not any other standard.

B4 Love listens without interruption.

B5 Love gives time.

B6 Love can be in a warning.

B7 Love is NOT controlling, micro-managing, etc.

B8 Love has these characteristics:

C1 Very patient

C2 Kind

C3 Not envious

C4 Doesn’t brag about itself

C5 Is not haughty

C6 Doesn’t behave improperly

C7 Is not self-seeking

C8 Is not easily aggravated

C9 Doesn’t keep a list of wrongs

C10 Doesn’t rejoice in injustice

C11 Rejoices in truth

C12 Bears all things

C13 Believes all things

C14 Hopes all things

C15 Calmly endures all things

C16 Never ends

C17 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a WEL Love is very patient and kind; love is not envious; love doesn’t brag about itself, is not haughty, 5 Doesn’t behave improperly, is not self-seeking; love isn’t easily aggravated, doesn’t keep a list of wrongs, 6 Doesn’t rejoice in injustice, but rejoices in the truth, 7 Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, calmly endures all things. 8 Love never ends

C18 Abusers claim they do this, but the abused knows differently.

C19 Abusers demand this of the ones they abuse, but they will not do so themselves. They choose their own standard instead of God’s standard.

C20 Abusers go to hell. (Note, I did not place a comma after the word abusers. Cheers).

C21 Real love by God’s standard is like this: Psalm 31:7 NIV I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul. (Note, God notices the troubles and comforts. The abuser is just the opposite).

Love is selective

B1 The highest priority of love is the love for God.

B2 Next, priority is our spouse, then family, then believers, then nonbelievers.

Love is not just mental, but physical, emotional, and spiritual.

B1 See my thoughts here.

B2 Mark 12:32-33 NRSV Then the scribe said to him, "You are right, Teacher; you have truly said that 'he is one, and besides him there is no other'; 33 and 'to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the strength,' and 'to love one's neighbor as oneself,'—this is much more important than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices."

Love must be genuine: Romans 12:9-10 ESV Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.

B1 A spouse who abuses verbal, sexually, emotionally, physically, spiritually, etc. does not love. Any abuse is not love. Abuse is genuine hate.

B2 A spiritual leader or teacher who abuses, micro-manages, or controls does not have love.

Love words in the Bible. Just a few are given.

B1 Bible Words

C1 Hebrew

D1 One Hebrew word for love is חָשַׁק châshaq. It means to be attached, to join together, long for, etc. It is a choice.

E1 Genesis 34:8 ESV But Hamor spoke with them, saying, “The soul of my son Shechem longs for your daughter. Please give her to him to be his wife.

E2 Deuteronomy 7:7 ESV It was not because you were more in number than any other people that the LORD set his love on you and chose you, for you were the fewest of all peoples.

E3 Psalms 91:14 NRSV Those who love me, I will deliver; I will protect those who know my name.

D2 Another word is אָהַב ʼâhab. It means to have affection for, like, sexual love, etc.

E1 Genesis 24:67 NRSV Then Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent. He took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her. So Isaac was comforted after his mother's death.

E2 Genesis 27:14 NRSV So he went and got them and brought them to his mother; and his mother prepared savory food, such as his father loved.

E3 Jeremiah 5:31 NRSV the prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule as the prophets direct; my people love to have it so, but what will you do when the end comes?

C2 Greek. The main word is ἀγαπάω agapáō. It means the deepest love of commitment, a love of choice, instead of just emotion. John 3:16 KJV For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

A few other verses about love:

B1 Psalm 11:5 NIV The LORD examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, he hates with a passion.

B2 Psalm 23:6 NIV Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

B3 Psalm 36:7 NIV How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.

B4 John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, so that anyone believing in him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 “For God did not send his Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through him.

Questions

B1 How do I measure according to God’s standard?

B2 Have I showed loved today?

B3 Why is love to important?

B4 Why do we need to love and need love?

A Few Thoughts About the Beauty in Marriage

Marriage

B1 Body

C1 Container. This is an illustration for the sexual need in humans. The idea of a comes from of idea of emotional needs, etc.

E1 Keeping the Love Tank Full

E2 This idea was popularized by Dr. Ross Campbell. Here is one review (PDF). I believe the book is still for sale.

D1 A man has a sexual container to enjoy his wife’s beauty. This container needs to be filled up. It cannot be filled in only a minute.

D2 A woman has a sexual container to have her husband enjoy her beauty. This container needs to be filled up. This too, cannot be filled in only a minute.

D3 This enjoyment has to be done by all the senses: eyes (seeing), taste (kissing), feel (touching), smell (perfume, etc.), hearing (communication).

D4 Some verses to give you the idea:

E1 Eyes

F1 Song of Solomon 1:10 GNB Your hair is beautiful upon your cheeks and falls along your neck like jewels.

F2 Song of Solomon 4:5 GNB Your breasts are like gazelles, twin deer feeding among lilies.

E2 Taste

F1 Song of Solomon 1:2 GNB Your lips cover me with kisses; your love is better than wine.

F2 Song of Solomon 4:11 GNB The taste of honey is on your lips, my darling; your tongue is milk and honey for me. Your clothing has all the fragrance of Lebanon.

E3 Feel

F1 Song of Solomon 1:13 GNB My lover has the scent of myrrh as he lies upon my breasts.

F2 Song of Solomon 2:6 GNB His left hand is under my head, and his right hand caresses me.

E4 Smell

F1 Song of Solomon 1:3 GNB There is a fragrance about you; the sound of your name recalls it. No woman could keep from loving you.

F2 Song of Solomon 1:12 GNB My king was lying on his couch, and my perfume filled the air with fragrance.

E5 Hearing

F1 Song of Solomon 1:15-16 GNB How beautiful you are, my love; how your eyes shine with love! 16 How handsome you are, my dearest; how you delight me! The green grass will be our bed.

F2 Note hearing, seeing, and hearing: Song of Solomon 2:14 GNB You are like a dove that hides in the crevice of a rock. Let me see your lovely face and hear your enchanting voice.

F3 Song of Solomon 4:1 GNB How beautiful you are, my love! How your eyes shine with love behind your veil. Your hair dances like a flock of goats bounding down the hills of Gilead.

C2 Eventually we all get into middle age and beyond, and our bodies don’t look like they did when we were in our 20s. Pregnancy changes this also (a good article is A Mom’s Body Change After Pregnancy) [When I find the link, I’ll update the article.]

D1 Your wife/your husband still needs these things. You still need to enjoy her beauty and let her know this.

D2 It is evil to look around at others. It happens, but it is evil.

E1 Exodus 20:14 NLT You must not commit adultery.

E2 Think of the 10 Commandments as a set, each of the 10 Commandments as a subset, and each subset having every possible sin. In our quote above, this subset of adultery includes every sexual sin possible. Thus porn, etc. is wrong, sin, evil, condemned by God, etc.

E3 Hebrews 13:4 NLT Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery.

D3 Both husband and wife are to enjoy sex. 1 Corinthians 7:3 NLT The husband should fulfill his wife's sexual needs, and the wife should fulfill her husband's needs.

E1 Sex is not just the release. It is both of them enjoying physical pleasure. Both need time to enjoy this pleasure. It is not something that happens in a couple of minutes.

E2 The wife can refuse, and the husband must submit. However, it should not be often. See the verses below:

F1 She can refuse: 1 Corinthians 7:4 NIV The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife.

F2 There is a time limit: 1 Corinthians 7:5 NLT Do not deprive each other of sexual relations, unless you both agree to refrain from sexual intimacy for a limited time so you can give yourselves more completely to prayer. Afterward, you should come together again so that Satan won't be able to tempt you because of your lack of self-control.

B2 Soul

C1 This is the beauty of each other’s character, personality, gifts, abilities, likes, and dislikes, etc. It is what makes each of us unique.

C2 We are to enjoy each emotionally, intellectually, and daily living.

C3 The more compatible we are, the easier this is to do. [See note 3]

C4 Take time with each other to work together, chore together, laugh together, work on family situations together, plan together, think together, eat together, listen to each other, help each other, encourage each other, be kind to each other, be compassionate to each other, forgive each other, console each other, be aware of each other’s needs, frustrations, hard day at work, etc.

C5 Live love the way God has instructed us [See note 4]. These things should be between both of us: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a WEL Love is very patient and kind; love is not envious; love doesn’t brag about itself, is not haughty, 5 Doesn’t behave improperly, is not self-seeking; love isn’t easily aggravated, doesn’t keep a list of wrongs, 6 Doesn’t rejoice in injustice, but rejoices in the truth, 7 Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, calmly endures all things. 8 Love never ends,

C6 Wives do give good counsel. There is safety in a multitude of counselors: God first, Bible, spouse (yes the wife counsel is important, too), etc.

D1 Moses didn’t listen to his wife’s counsel, so God came to kill Moses: Exodus 4:24-26 NET Now on the way, at a place where they stopped for the night, the LORD met Moses and sought to kill him. 25 But Zipporah took a flint knife, cut off the foreskin of her son and touched it to Moses' feet, and said, "Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me." 26 So the LORD let him alone. (At that time she said, "A bridegroom of blood," referring to the circumcision.)

D2 Pilate: Matthew 27:19 NET As he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent a message to him: "Have nothing to do with that innocent man; I have suffered greatly as a result of a dream about him today."

B3 Spirit

C1 For the Christian, this is a life of worship together, serving God together, and fellowship with God and His people together. We are to be seeing in our wife or in our husband the following beautiful things:

D1 Seeing the beauty of your spouse as you celebrate God, His worldview, His lifestyle, His attributes, His beliefs (doctrines), His Gospel, His care, and His people.

D2 Seeing the gifts of the Spirit in your spouse. Both wife and husband have gifts of the Spirit.

E1 Romans 12:6-8 NIV We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. [See note 1 and 2 below]

E2 Also see 1 Peter 4:10-11, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Ephesians 4:11-16, James 1:17, etc.

C2 The following are rules for the whole church, but I am applying these today to our marriages. Husband and wife living this type life serving, God, each other, fellow believers, and everyone else:

D1 Romans 12:9-21 NIV Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

D2 Husband and wife are to living, thinking, applying, doing the above in private and publicly—firstly to your spouse, secondly to the rest of your immediate family, thirdly to the believers you fellowship with, fourthly to believers worldwide, and lastly to everyone else.

Unity

B1 It is required:

C1 Genesis 2:24 NLT This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.

C2 If we are to have fellowship with God and fellow believers, then it is more so to have fellowship with our spouse: 1 John 1:3 NIV We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

B2 This verse is a principle of doing something together, being yoked together, so partnerships, fellowship in church, business, marriage, etc. Husband and wife are to be yoked together:

C1 Everything in creation was pronounced good, except that Adam was left alone. Eve was then created for Adam to have fellowship and a thinking mate for counsel and consoling. Adam did not have all the gifts and ability to take care of the Garden; God made it so. Eve had the other gifts and ability needed to work together. They were yoked together.

C2 2 Corinthians 6:14 NIV Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?

C3 This was written to the congregation at Rome, but I believe it can be applied to marriage as well. You decide. Romans 15:5-7 NIV May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

[All emphasis is mine]

Note 1: Prophecy is not a gift in use today. Maybe you believe so, but I am not here to fight about this but the qualifications are 100% correct in the doctrine that one teaches, the advice that one offers, the wisdom, the rebukes, the warnings, even speaking future events. There is simply no one who could be qualified by the Apostles of Jesus Christ, since they are no longer living on earth. The so-called apostles of today have no proof that they meet God’s qualifications of Acts 1:21-22, 1 Corinthians 1:9 (Paul had witnesses), 2 Corinthians 12:12, Revelation 2:2. If there are no apostles to authenticate them. There is no way to know if they are prophets or not.

Note 2: I would agree with this: Are there prophets in the church today?

Note 3: Compatibility Sources but be aware not all have Biblical ideals

B1 Free Quiz with Marriage Compatibility Questions

B2 Marriage Compatibility 7 Critical Areas to Evaluate (Note this site evidently teaches courtship, so be aware).

B3 Pre-Marriage Awareness Questionnaire (PDF)

Note 4: The 5 Love Languages Quiz

1 Year Bible—Philippians

Outline

B1 Chapter 1

C1 Prayer for the Philippians Philippians 1:1-11

C2 Paul and Persecution of Paul Philippians 1:12-26

C3 Prayer and Encouragement for the Philippians Philippians 1:27-30

B2 Chapter 2

C1 Encouragement to Have Humility Like Jesus Philippians 2:1-11

C2 Encouragement Not to Complain Philippians 2:12-18

C3 Encouragement That Some Helpers Are Coming to You Philippians 2:19-30

B3 Chapter 3

C1 Warning About Judaizers Philippians 3:1-14

C2 Warning About False Christians Philippians 3:15-21

B4 Chapter 4

C1 Plea for Unity Philippians 4:1-3

C2 Plea to Live a Christian Life Philippians 4:4-9

C3 Thank You For Your Help Philippians 4:10-20

C4 Final Greetings Philippians 4:21-23

Chapters

B1 Chapter 1

C1 Paul’s prayer

C2 3 important things

D1 The work Jesus began, He will finish

E1 Jesus is the master teacher.

F1 Since He is omniscient, omnisapient, and knowing how to communicate perfectly. We can understand.

F2 John 7:45-46 LEB So the officers came to the chief priests and Pharisees. And they said to them, "Why did you not bring him?" 46 The officers replied, "Never has a man spoken like this!"

F3 Matthew 13:54 NLT He returned to Nazareth, his hometown. When he taught there in the synagogue, everyone was amazed and said, "Where does he get this wisdom and the power to do miracles?"

E2 We need to stay enrolled in God’s school. We need to read, study, believe, and apply the teaching of Jesus Christ.

D2 Their love would increase

E1 Love is a choice. If you and/or I love someone, we will treat them with the actions of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a.

E2 The love of many is grown cold. People love themselves first. We must not fall back into that habit : Matthew 24:12 NLT Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold.

E3 Our first, greatest, highest priority love must be Jesus, not our pastor and his wife, not our teacher, not our favorite theologian, etc. Revelation 2:4 NLT But I have this complaint against you. You don't love me or each other as you did at first!

E6 God teaches us so. His teaching is not just words, but also He tests and has us in situations to apply what He has taught, so expect to face some issues.

F1 Psalm 11:5 NLT The LORD examines both the righteous and the wicked. He hates those who love violence. (Note, love violence refers to narcissists, domestic abusers, controlling people, etc. We need to remember God hates them).

F2 1 Thessalonians 4:9 NLT But we don't need to write to you about the importance of loving each other, for God himself has taught you to love one another.

D3 We need to judge and test everything

E1 We need a standard. The only eternal standard is God Himself. He has revealed this to us. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 WEL All Scripture is inspired and is beneficial for doctrine, reproof, correction, and for instruction in righteousness, 17 So that God’s people may be completely ready, fully equipped for all good works

E2 We need to start with ourselves: 2 Corinthians 13:5-6 NLT Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine. Test yourselves. Surely you know that Jesus Christ is among you; if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith. 6 As you test yourselves, I hope you will recognize that we have not failed the test of apostolic authority.

E3 We need to test what is said, written, or communicated in any way whether it be a preacher, teacher, etc. 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 NLT Do not scoff at prophecies, 21 but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. [emphasis is mine]

E4 Ephesians 5:10 WEL Testing things [to see if] they are acceptable to the Lord.

C3 Philippians 1:21 NKJV For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Comment from Believer’s Bible Commentary on this passage:

Here, in a nutshell, is Paul's philosophy of life. He did not live for money, fame, or pleasure. The object of his life was to love, worship, and serve the Lord Jesus. He wanted his life to be like the life of Christ. He wanted the Savior to live out His life through him.

And to die is gain. To die is to be with Christ and to be like Him forever. It is to serve Him with unsinning heart and with feet that will never stray. We do not ordinarily think of death as one of our gains.

B2 Chapter 2

C1 Philippians 2:6 NIV Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;

C2 We learn the Chalcedon Statement

We, then, following the holy Fathers, all with one

consent, teach men to confess one and the same

Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, the same perfect in

Godhead and also perfect in manhood; truly God

and truly man, of a reasonable [rational] soul and

body; consubstantial [co-essential] with the

Father according to the Godhead, and

consubstantial with us according to the

Manhood; in all things like unto us, without sin;

begotten before all ages of the Father according

to the Godhead, and in these latter days, for us

and for our salvation, born of the Virgin Mary,

the Mother of God, according to the Manhood;

one and the same Christ, Son, Lord, only

begotten, to be acknowledged in two natures,

inconfusedly,

unchangeably,

indivisibly,

inseparably; the distinction of natures being by

no means taken away by the union, but rather

the property of each nature being preserved,

and concurring in one Person and one

Subsistence, not parted or divided into two

persons, but one and the same Son, and only

begotten, God the Word, the Lord Jesus Christ;

as the prophets from the beginning [have

declared] concerning Him, and the Lord Jesus

Christ Himself has taught us, and the Creed of

the holy Fathers has handed down to us.

B3 Chapter 3

C1 Beware of false teachers. In this passage, specifically, the Judaizers: Philippians 3:2 WEL Beware of dogs; beware of evil workers; beware of the mutilators.

C2 Philippians 3:14 NRSV I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.

D1 What is our goal in life?

D2 Two verses:

E1 In our short time on earth, where are our eyes? The goal, the standard, the greatest and best, whom we serve must be the Lord Jesus our Messiah: Hebrews 12:2 BSB Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

E2 Let us pray to be faithful and steadfast until death: 2 Timothy 4:7 BSB I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

C3 We are citizens of God’s kingdom. Let our words, desires, words, and deeds be according to that kingdom. Philippians 3:20-21 WEL But our citizenship is in heaven, from where we also look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; 21 Who will change our humiliated body, that it may become like his glorious body, according to the power by which he is able to even place everything under himself.

B4 Chapter 4

C1 What occupies our minds? What are we thinking about? Our Father knows life is rough, so He encourages us: Philippians 4:8 WEL Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are well spoken of, if there is any moral excellence, if there is anything praiseworthy, think about these things.

C2 We need to be thankful. Paul is thankful for the prayers and helps the Philippians have given him and his team.

Psalms 100:4-5 NKJV Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. 5 For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.

Ephesians 6:21-24

A1 Scripture

B1 Ephesians 6:21-24 NKJV  But that you also may know my affairs and how I am doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make all things known to you;  (22) whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts. (23) Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.  (24) Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.

B2 Ephesians 6:21-24 GNB  Tychicus, our dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord's work, will give you all the news about me, so that you may know how I am getting along.  (22) That is why I am sending him to you—-to tell you how all of us are getting along and to encourage you. (23) May God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give to all Christians peace and love with faith.  (24) May God's grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with undying love.

A2 Outline

B1 Sharing with the brethren

C1 Sent by Tychicus

D1 Beloved brother

D2 Faithful minister in the Lord

C2 Purpose

D1 How we are getting along

D2 To comfort your heart (encourage you)

B2 Ending/blessing

C1 From

D1 God the Father

D2 The Lord Jesus Christ

C2 To give from them to you

D1 Peace to the brethren

D2 Love with faith

B3 Prayer: Grace be with all you love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity

A3 Notes

B1 Sharing information

C1 Nice to update

C2 Gives information for the brethren to know how to pray.

C3 To ensure accountability.

B2 Tychicus

C1 With Paul on third missionary journey. Acts 20:4 NKJV  And Sopater of Berea accompanied him to Asia—also Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus of Asia.

C2 Took letter from Paul to Colossians. Colossians 4:7-8 NKJV  Tychicus, a beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me.  (8) I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts.

C3 Also went to Ephesus. 2 Timothy 4:12 NKJV  And Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus.

C4 According to tradition, he was Bishop of Chalcedon.

C5 Characteristics

D1 Beloved brother

E1 Same objectives

E2 Same goals

E3 Same motivations

E4 Same Lord

E5 Same salvation

E6 Same forgiveness

E7 Same grace from God

D2 Faithful minister in the Lord

E1 To Lord

E2 To church

E3 To Scriptures

F1 To read

G1 In plain, normal sense

G2 As God's word

G3 Only source of 100% truth

G4 As completely sufficient

F2 To study

F3 To believe

F4 To teach

E4 To Doctrine

E5 To Christian life

E6 To study

E7 To preach

E8 Delivers the same message that he received

C6 Sent by Paul to

D1 Give update information to church

D2 Comfort their worrying hearts

B3 Paul's prayer. Three things

C1 Peace

D1 Not world peace, though that would be nice. Social justice may be nice, but the heart needs to be changed. When God gives a new heart, we treat everyone the way God wants us to (or at least we should).

D2 Is to the brethren. This is both sisters and brothers. It is a general term for those who have placed their faith and trust into Jesus Christ.

D3 Defined

E1 Rest and calm

E2 Words

F1 Old Testament (Hebrew)

G1 Shalom

H1 Health and prosperity

H2 Safety

H3 Friendship

G2 The verbs and adjectives are from the same root word

F2 New Testament (Greek)

G1 Eirene

H1 Quietness, rest and contentment.

H2 From war and unrest

H3 With individuals

H4 With God

G2 The verbs and adjectives are from the same root word

E2 God is the author of peace

F1 Isaiah 9:6 NKJV  "For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." As the old saying, "No God, no peace. Know God, know peace."

F2 There is no peace for the wicked (rebels).

G1 Isaiah 57:21 NKJV  There is no peace," Says my God, "for the wicked.

G2 Romans 3:17 UKJV  And the way of peace have they not known.

C2 Love

D1 A choice, a choosing something to be special.

D2 Words

E1 Old Testament (Hebrew)

F1 Ahabah. A general term for love of various types of love as in English.

F2 God’s love to His people. Husband to wife. Friend to friend. Sexual.

E2 New Testament (Greek)

F1 Agape (the word used here)

G1 A choosing of something/one special

G2 Romans 5:8 NKJV  But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

G3 Romans 8:35 NKJV  Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

F2 Phileo

G1 The feeling of friendship

G2 With the idea of loyalty and seeking the best interests of another

G3 Being fond, really liking something/one as fond of ice cream.

G4 Matthew 6:5 NKJV  And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.

G5 John 5:20 NKJV  For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel.

F3 Eros

G1 Physical love

G2 Not used in the New Testament

F4 Storge

G1 Not used in the Bible.

G2 It is the love of parent for child that is more and higher than for the children of others.

G3 Astorgos is used. It is translated "without natural affection."

G4 2 Timothy 3:3 GW  And lack normal affection for their families. They will refuse to make peace with anyone. They will be slanderous, lack self-control, be brutal, and have no love for what is good.

G5 Romans 1:31 KJV  Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful.

D3 Love with faith

E1 Two nouns. It is not love (something/someone) with faith. It is love along with faith. Two nouns.

E2 Love is a blessing. It is good. It is of God. This love in this passage is for the Christian fellowship of all believers.

E3 But not only love, but love with faith. The same faith in Jesus Christ, His words, His goals, His rules, His way of life. All the Christians in love and in faith.

E4 With is not the word sun, it is meta. Meta means with as in accompanying. Faith is accompanying love. They are together. As one writes, "love goes with faith."

C3 Grace

D1 Receiving what we do NOT deserve.

D2 Words

E1 Old Testament (Hebrew)

F1 Khane

F2 Same idea as in the New Testament

F3 Proverbs 3:34 NKJV  Surely He scorns the scornful, But gives grace to the humble.

E2 New Testament (Greek)

F1 charis Favorable actions, kindness, even in the sense of a unasked for, undeserved gift.

F2 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 GNB  For I am the least of all the apostles—-I do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted God's church.  (10) But by God's grace I am what I am, and the grace that he gave me was not without effect. On the contrary, I have worked harder than any of the other apostles, although it was not really my own doing, but God's grace working with me.

B4 Parting words/blessing

C1 To those who love (agape) our Lord Jesus Christ

D1 Not necessarily an emotion as in boyfriend/girlfriend love

D2 John 14:15 GNB If you love me, you will obey my commandments.

E1 Keep is used as in keep the speed limit, that is, obey the speed limit. If it is 55 mph, then one doesn't drive as 85 mph.

E2 Commandments as outlined in the New Testament

C2 In sincerity

D1 Sincerity is the opposite of being a hypocrite, liar, false, having a facade, or fake.

D2 The Greek word is aphtharsia.

E1 Genuine, incorruptible

E2 1 Corinthians 15:42 NKJV So also is the resurrection of the dead. The body is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption." Compare:

F1 Matthew 22:37 NRSV  He said to him, "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.'

F2 2 Corinthians 8:8 NRSV  I do not say this as a command, but I am testing the genuineness of your love against the earnestness of others.

F3 Titus 2:7-8 NRSV  Show yourself in all respects a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, gravity,  (8) and sound speech that cannot be censured; then any opponent will be put to shame, having nothing evil to say of us.

A4 Applications

B1 Love God

B2 Love the brothers and sisters

B3 Have faith

B4 Be faithful

B5 Be encouraged