The Epistle of Paul to the Philippians

Transcription

1 A Comprehensive Commentary of The Epistle of Paul to the Philippians together with references for further study from the General Conferences of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints the Encyclopedia of Mormonism and other doctrinal texts by General Authorities of the Church Written and compiled by Paul Nolan Hyde Parrish Press Orem, Utah

2 Copyright 2009; 2015 by Paul Nolan Hyde, Ph.D. All rights reserved. First Electronic Edition Copyright 2015 Parrish Press, Orem, Utah 1842 South 50 East Orem, Utah

3 Preface This project began as an attempt to provide my children and grandchildren something of their ancestor s love and understanding of the scriptures. I began producing volumes many years ago which I was pleased to call Paraphrastic studies. I wrote one of these studies for each of the four Gospels and the letters of Paul. Eventually, however, I began to sense that there was much that I knew about the New Testament that my translations could not communicate. I therefore thought to write a comprehensive commentary on the entire New Testament, beginning with Matthew and concluding with the book of Revelation. As I published each of the nine volumes, I included the paraphrastic studies, where I had them, in conjunction with the commentary for each book in the New Testament. I began this project in 2005 and completed the final volume in The whole effort was a delight to my soul. A year before I retired from the Church Educational System, in 2003, I thought to produce an 1830 formatting of the Book of Mormon using the present text of the 1981 edition. This was a relatively easy task, given the technology available to me. I distributed these to my colleagues at the Orem Institute of Religion, members of my family, and a few other interested parties for the cost of printing and binding them. Sometime in the early spring of 2007, I was impressed to begin a verse by verse commentary on the Book of Mormon, a task that I had not presumed to attempt, inasmuch as there are no translation difficulties that abound in the Old and New Testaments. Yet, there were instances of nineteenth-century word usage and syntactic issues that I thought a commentary might help to clarify. As I began, however, I discovered that there was much more that I could communicate to my children of my understanding of the ancient record of the Nephites, material that I had gleaned as I taught the scriptures during my thirty-five year career with CES. This labor eventually produced five volumes of moderate size. As I published each segment of the commentary, I enclosed the 1830 formatting of each book in the Book of Mormon that I had devise several years before. The last volume also appeared in late By the time that I was fully engaged with writing commentaries on both the New Testament and the Book of Mormon, I had become infatuated with the idea that I might be able to expand the commentaries to include the other volumes of scripture as well. Thus, in the winter of 2010 I began writing commentaries on the Pearl of Great Price, and the Doctrine and Covenants. Once I finished with the Pearl of Great Price, I began to move ahead with the book of Genesis and the rest of the Old Testament. In the late fall of 2014 I finished the last of the commentaries on the Old Testament, for a total of thirty-three printed and bound volumes. With these volumes and the others produced over the past ten years, I have completed commentary on every verse of the Standard Works of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. My procedure for writing the Commentary was similar to that used in creating the original paraphrastic studies. The same reference texts were employed. For difficult words in Greek, Hebrew, 3

4 and English I resorted to the works of James Strong and other lexicographers for linguistic insight. I consider the contributions made by conservative Protestant scholarship (as recorded in the New International Version) and conservative Catholic scholarship (as related in the New Jerusalem Bible). I resorted to the considered thought of Adam Clarke, one of the most prominent and prolific commentators on the sacred manuscripts available at the beginning of the nineteenth century, and who, I believe, was a man of great faith. I consulted with the Joseph Smith Translation at appropriate times (including in another column an indication that a JST change had been made for any given verse), and frequently to the writings of the General Authorities of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, as I contemplated the possible meanings of each word and phrase. From time to time I resorted to Smith s Bible Dictionary and Discovering the World of the Bible by LaMar Berrett for some of the more arcane information that I thought would illuminate the text. I have attempted to maintain a steady course throughout my commentaries, treating each verse as unique, and where appropriate, duplicate notes and the text rather than use cross-references within the volume. Some may find this a waste of paper and ink, but I frankly dislike having to rifle through pages or volumes trying to find the first instance of the note or commentary. The duplications are easily ignored; fumbling through pages cannot be. It is in the best interests of the reader, however, to contemplate the reasons why such duplications exist in the biblical text in the first place. They are purposeful and I have attempted to point out their purpose as I have progressed through each volume. My numbering system for the notes used in the body of the commentary was adapted from historical linguistic texts with which I am familiar and which I had found quite useful. The pattern used is chapter.verse.word; thus note would contain material referring to the fifth word in the book of Hosea 3:4, for example. I make no comprehensive promises regarding the preciseness of my word count in any particular verse, but it will be close enough to eliminate any distressing confusion. Inasmuch as I began this series with the Gospel of Matthew, there will be times when I will make reference to my own work in that first volume. Sometimes there will be no more than a reference, MT-C ; other times I may quote directly from the original text. In either case my sole motivation will be to facilitate the flow of ideas rather than to multiply words. There are enough words already. References to the Commentaries on other books of the New Testament are abbreviated as follows: Matthew MT-C Mark MK-C Luke LK-C John JN-C Acts AC-C Romans RM-C 1 Corinthians 1 CO-C 2 Corinthians 2 CO-C Galatians GA-C Ephesians EP-C Philippians PP-C Colossians CL-C 1 Thessalonians 1 TH-C 2 Thessalonians 2 TH-C 1 Timothy 1 TM-C 2 Timothy 2 TM-C Titus TT-C Philemon PL-C Hebrews HB-C 1 Peter 1 PE-C 2 Peter 2 PE-C 1 John 1 JN-C 2 John 2 JN-C 3 John 3 JN-C Revelation RV-C 4

5 References to the Commentaries in the books of the Old Testament are as follows: Genesis GE-C Exodus EX-C Leviticus LV-C Numbers NM-C Deuteronomy DT-C Joshua JO-C Judges JD-C Ruth RU-C 1 Samuel 1 SM-C 2 Samuel 2 SM-C 1 Kings 1 KG-C 2 Kings 2 KG-C 1 Chronicles 1 CR-C 2 Chronicles 2 CR-C Ezra ER-C Nehemiah NE-C Esther ES-C Job JB-C Psalms PS-C Proverbs PV-C Ecclesiastes ES-C Song of Solomon SS-C Isaiah IS-C Jeremiah JR-C Lamentations LM-C Ezekiel EZ-C Daniel DA-C Hosiah HS-C Joel JL-C Amos AM-C Obadiah OB-C Jonah JH-C Micah MH-C Nahum NA-C Habakkuk HB-C Zephaniah ZP-C Haggai HG-C Zechariah ZE-C Malachi ML-C I have also made reference to the other standard works of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints. The references to the Book of Mormon are articulated in bold and italics lettering using the following abbreviations: 1 Nephi 1 NE-C 2 Nephi 2 NE-C Jacob JA-C Enos EN-C Jarom JM-C Omni OM-C Words of Mormon WM-C Mosiah MS-C Alma AL-C Helaman HE-C 3 Nephi 3 NE-C 4 Nephi 4 NE-C Mormon MM-C Ether ET-C Moroni MR-C The abbreviation TPW-C refers to the material found on the Title Page of the Book of Mormon and in the Testimonies of the Three and Eight Witnesses. The references to Sections that are in the Doctrine and Covenants are indicated as DC-C followed by the section number and verse (OD1-C and OD2-C are self-explanatory); The Pearl of Great Price references contained herein use the following abbreviations: MO-C, AB-C, SM-C, SH-C, and AF-C. In some cases I have taken on what some would consider controversial material. I make no apologies for so doing. I have found that my children are best served when an issue is approached head on, the differing points of view presented, and the rationale given as to why one school of thought ought to be preferred over another. Sometimes the decisions are logically founded; others the result of doctrinal points that are unique to theology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In most cases I have not argued authorities, even though I could have inserted multiple references to the writings of scholars with whom I am familiar. I have chosen to have my sources on any particular issue to remain anonymous in the text of the commentary for several reasons. First and foremost, this work is my commentary, what I believe and hold to be true. In the end, that is what my children wish to know. Secondly, I did not wish to have my children accept or dismiss a particular view merely because of who had been the author of it. Many wonderful insights have been made by scholars both inside and outside of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Wherein I have found one view to be preferable over another has not been a partisan matter, but rather a matter of the mind, heart, and spirit cooperating together in an attempt to understand what must be the truth. Thirdly, I have been quite clear who my authorities have been. It is my fondest 5

6 desire that my children would become as familiar with their writings as I have. Were I to cite all of my sources with extensive quotes from each, there would be no need for them to open any of the books that I have come to love. That, in part, is why I included the third column containing crossreferences to the various doctrinal works in the Commentaries. Exceptions to this practice should be noted as being of extreme importance. In addition to the text of the Standard Works, together with my own commentary, I inserted a column of references for further study. The citations are taken from three major sources: the Conference Reports of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from April 1980 to November 2002 (abbreviated as CR followed by the year, month, and page number); the Encyclopedia of Mormonism (four volumes, abbreviated EM followed by the volume and page number); and A Scripture Index (a compilation of scripture references cited in various texts published by General Authorities of the Church). For those not familiar with the abbreviations used in A Scripture Index. I include them below: TPJS Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith GD Gospel Doctrine MA Mediation and Atonement FWR Far West Record DHC History of the Church (7 vols.) TSWK Teaching of Spencer W. Kimball MF Miracle of Forgiveness FPM Faith Precedes the Miracle MD Mormon Doctrine PM Promised Messiah MM Mortal Messiah (4 vols.) MLM Millennial Messiah DNTC Doctrinal New Testament Commentary (3 vols.) JC Jesus the Christ AF Articles of Faith DS Doctrines of Salvation (3 vols.) AGQ Answers to Gospel Questions (5 vols.) As with each of the volumes previously published, I include two lists. The first, bound in front of the Commentary, is a listing of all of the words and phrases upon which I have made extensive remarks, a kind of sequential table of contents. I have also arranged this list alphabetically and have placed it at the end of the Commentary as a kind of index. A comprehensive alphabetical index for the entire volume appears as the last section of this book. Needless to say that all of the errors in the material submitted herein to the reader are the product of my own limitations as a scholar; all of the brilliance which may appear here is the product of minds and hearts filled with the fire of the Spirit of God, from whom all truth and beauty ultimately derive. A Note on the Electronic Edition Not only did my children and other family members receive bound copies of commentaries, but there were a number of friends and neighbors who had expressed an interest in them. There were requests from others who desired copies of what I had done, but I was not in a position to provide them with hard copies. Inasmuch as I had all of the volumes in computer files, I thought to compile each of the commentaries in some format that could be read on a smart device. I opted to use Adobe Acrobat, turning all of the work into PDF files. I have used these on my tablet for many years and have found them useful and far easier to cart about with me. In the early spring of 2015, my neighbor David Dollahite arranged for a meeting with Jack Welch and Marny Parkin regarding the possibility of BYU providing a dedicated web site so that there would be greater public access to my 6

7 work. Thus began the present enterprise of editing and standardizing all that had done during the last ten years. My commentary on the Gospel of Matthew is the first of these electronic volumes. Within a year or so I hope to have all of the books available in the same format. PNH Orem, Utah July

8 Sequence of Specifically Noted Words and Phrases in Philippians Commentary Paul Timotheus Jesus Christ saints Philippi bishops deacons grace peace Jesus Christ fellowship gospel first day he Jesus Christ bonds gospel grace Jesus Christ approve sincere Christ Jesus Christ gospel Christ palace word preach Christ Christ gospel Christ this Jesus Christ Christ Christ For strait Christ Jesus Christ Only conversation gospel Christ Christ consolation Christ Christ Jesus Jesus robbery equal Jesus Christ work fear trembling rejoice Christ Lord Jesus Timotheus Jesus Christ s gospel supposed Epaphroditus your messenger sent carefully gladness reputation Christ Finally same things grievous but safe dogs evil workers concision circumcision Christ Jesus eighth day stock Israel Benjamin Hebrew law Pharisee law loss Christ Christ Jesus dung law Christ follow apprehend Christ Jesus mark prize Christ Jesus Christ conversation Jesus Christ longed for crown Euodias Syntyche thee women Clement book of life moderation Christ Jesus true honest just pure lovely good report virtue praise think care Christ communicate Philippians gospel Macedonia Thessalonica Epaphroditus Christ Jesus Amen saint Christ Jesus brethren saints Caesar s grace Jesus Christ Amen 8

9 A Commentary on the Scriptures by Paul Nolan Hyde, Ph.D. Paul s Epistle to the Philippians 0.0 It is the nature and disposition of almost all learned men to dispute with one another the merits of their own thinking and the thinking of those who have come before them. That the letter to the Philippians was written by the Apostle Paul is almost unanimously asserted by all, but the date and place of its composition has been the subject of great debate. The text of the epistle suggests that Paul was imprisoned at the time of its writing, but many scholars are fervent about their own choice of the timing and location of when it was penned. Some have asserted that Paul was incarcerated in Ephesus from AD 53 to 55 and wrote to his friends and colleagues in Philippi from there. Others chose to name Caesarea in AD 57 to 59 as the place and time of its writing. Still others agree with Euthalius that one of the Roman imprisonments motivated his letter, but disagree as to which imprisonment is meant. Again, most scholars wish to place the writing of any and all of Paul s letters within the time frame developed by Luke in his Acts of the Apostles. This has proven to be a poor conclusion, as has been noted before. Chapter Paul s ministry in eastern Macedonia had been a prosperous one and many of the disciples of Christ looked to the Apostle as their angelic missionary who delivered them from the bondage of sin and ignorance by presenting clearly the principles of eternal life and salvation, and by attending to the relevant ordinances. No doubt all of the Bishops of Philippi owed their authority to that of the Apostle Paul, he having ordained them and set them apart for their various stewardships Paul The Latin name of Saul of Tarsus which he adopted as he began his missionary labors Timotheus If long-standing tradition is any indication, this faithful companion of the Apostle Paul had served for many years with him in the ministry is the same to whom two of Paul s many epistles were addressed. Timothy was raised in the Jewish faith by his mother, though he was not circumcised until he had neared adulthood. His conversion to Christianity was a great blessing to his family and to the Church of Christ. Extrascriptural tradition has assigned Timothy the bishopric of Ephesus and martyrdom at the hands of the emperor of Rome. Historians are at odds as to whither of the two cities, Derbe or Lystra, was the home town of Timothy and his mother. Some ancient manuscripts assure us that Lystra is the correct community Jesus Christ The author of eternal salvation, both of the body and the spirit through the power of the resurrection and his atoning sacrifice for sin saints A common term used for the formal members of the Church of Jesus Christ Philippi A city in eastern Macedonia near the border with Thrace. The original site for this city was probably built by the Phoenicians, which they named Datus, as they exploited the gold mines in the nearby mountains. Philip, the father of Alexander the Great, reestablished the community which then took his name. It became one of 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: Philip. 1:1 EM 1:117, 270, 277 Philip. 1:1 EM 3:1051, 1249 Philip. 1:1 6 DNTC 2:409 Philip. 1:1 26 DNTC 2:202, 216, 490 9

10 the major stations on the Via Egnatia, the main road from Rome to Asia. It is situated about nine miles from the sea. Great arguments have been proffered in an attempt to explain why it was that Luke called Philippi the chief city of that district of Macedonia (see AC-C 16.12). There are linguistic and historical justifications for the honor in spite of the fact that Amphipolis was the de facto capital. Philippi was called a Roman colony (see AC-C 16.12), free city of the Roman Empire, given that title by Augustus, but probably initially by Julius Caesar. The fate of the Empire hung on the outcome of two famous battles fought by Augustus near the city. The destruction of Brutus and Cassius forces at Philippi may have contributed to the city s preeminence. Many archeologists have suggested that the ruins located near the modern village of Bereketli are those of ancient Philippi bishops The plurality of bishops in the city of Philippi would imply several congregations of Christians had been established there deacons Deacons were officers in the Church of Jesus Christ ordained to an office of the Aaronic priesthood by which they could administer to the temporal wants and needs of the membership of the Church. In all of their activities they were directed by the president of the Aaronic Priesthood in each congregation, the Bishop who presided among them. 1.2 It is a marvelous and gratifying experience to have a man of God evoke the blessings of heaven upon the faithful. Jesus Christ did so for the brethren that served with him in his mortal ministry. He sought to bless all those with whom he came in contact, whether they were receptive or not to his message of salvation. There is a tenderness of heart in the Son of God that is nigh unfathomable to the minds of fallen men, but frequently observable in the demeanor of the Lord s servants grace The Greek word which is here translated as grace derives from roots which mean graciousness, gratifying, divine influence on the heart, cheerful, calmly happy, joyful peace The Greek word which is here translated as peace derives from roots which mean to join, prosperity, one, rest, set at one again. Jesus fundamental purpose in his mortal ministry was to establish a reconciliation between the Father and His disobedient children, an atone-ment or atonement. The establishment of Zion is another goal of the Gospel of Christ, where all the inhabitants thereof are of one heart and one mind, dwell in righteousness, and there is no poor among them. Every covenant, every ordinance in the Church and Kingdom of God is designed to establish unity among those who embrace them Jesus Christ The author of eternal salvation, both of the body and the spirit through the power of the resurrection and his atoning sacrifice for sin. 1.3 Some scholars have suggested that this verse should be translated I thank God for every remembrance that you have made of me. Whether Paul was actually referring to the many times the Philippians had come to his material aid or not is not the point of Paul s epistle. The Apostle and the other disciples of Christ are mutually loved, and Paul s affection for the Philippians was far more substantive than simple gratitude for past gifts. 1.4 There is a superior translation of this verse. 2 Grace [be] unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and [from] the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, Philip. 1:4 JST 10

11 Always in every prayer of mine, for the steadfastness of you all, making request with joy, (JST, Philippians 1.4) The vast majority of the Christians in Philippi had proven faithful in all of their duties to the Church and Kingdom of God, as faithfully as any people with whom Paul had come in contact. They were a testament to his effective stewardship as a servant of God. 1.5 Paul s efforts in promulgating the principles of salvation were in part sustained by the success that had been achieved in the city of Philippi. He enjoyed a rich and rewarding relationship with the saints there and sought always to establish these same sentiments in the hearts and minds of all those with whom he came in contact fellowship The Greek word which is here translated as fellowship derives from roots that mean partnership, participation, benefaction, communion, sharer, associate. This is in reference to their acknowledged brotherhood through the atonement of Jesus Christ gospel That is to say, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance from sin, baptism by immersion for the remission of sins, the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end first day Paul first preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Philippi during his Second Missionary Journey, as recorded in the 16th chapter of the book of Acts. There Lydia, a seller of purple was baptized, evil spirits were exorcised, Paul and Silas imprisoned, and their jailer taught and baptized together with his whole household. An auspicious beginning indeed. 1.6 The Philippians were confident in their association with the Lord God of Israel. They were covenant makers, faithful and true to all that Paul had taught them, mindful of the whisperings of the Spirit of God. They looked upon death without fear, for they were certain of the power of the resurrection. They looked upon the day of judgment with joyful anticipation knowing that they had been redeemed from every sin and transgression through the atoning sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ he To distinguish between the labors of the three members of the Godhead is a bootless exercise, for in the end, all are engaged in bringing to pass the immortality and eternal life of man. The Father s work encompasses all good that can and ought to be accomplished. The Son is the facilitator of that work through his faithful obedience to all that the Father has spoken regarding the salvation and exaltation of His children. The Holy Ghost is the faithful witness who testifies to the hearts and minds of the children of men of the truth of the love and compassion of the Father and the Son Jesus Christ The author of eternal salvation, both of the body and the spirit through the power of the resurrection and his atoning sacrifice for sin. 1.7 The sincere desire of every servant of God is the establishment of Zion in the hearts and minds of those for whom he had charge. The Philippians had been particularly responsive to the principles that govern the Celestial Kingdom and manifested their faith in the manner in which they treated one another and in their fearless support of the Apostle Paul in whatsoever circumstances that he might find himself in. Paul rejoiced in having been chosen to suffer incarceration because of his efforts to promulgate the Gospel of Jesus 5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; 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: 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. Philip. 1:7 CR83-A 12 11

12 Christ. The Philippians rejoiced with him, feeling no shame because of the persecutions through which he was passing bonds No doubt in reference to the many times he had been cast into prison for his testimony of Christ. He was probably in prison in Rome when this letter was composed gospel That is to say, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance from sin, baptism by immersion for the remission of sins, the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end grace The gift of which Paul speaks here is his awareness of his life being in harmony with the will of God. The Philippian saints were blessed in like manner, not only in their awareness of the goodness of their friend s life, but also regarding their own conduct as children of God. 1.8 The members of the Church of Jesus Christ in the city of Philippi had been faithful to the covenants which they had taken upon themselves through baptism and the other ordinances of the Gospel. Because of their spiritual integrity, they enjoyed the full weight and measure of the Gift of the Holy Ghost. In the spirit, the saints were aware of how Paul felt toward them, even as he sensed the love of the Philippians toward him. This mutual compassion and love was coupled with their awareness of the Savior s perfect expression of charity in their behalf. Here is unity, perfect and undefiled, the central pillar in the household of faith Jesus Christ The author of eternal salvation, both of the body and the spirit through the power of the resurrection and his atoning sacrifice for sin. 1.9 The closer a man draws toward the God of Heaven, the clearer are his views of eternity. The Philippians had had received at Paul s hands the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Once having partaken of the fellowship of Christ, they pressed forward in faith, acquiring one divine attribute after another. As they became intellectually aware of the character and perfections of God the Father, they more studiously applied the principles of eternal life into their daily walk and talk that they might be more like unto Him. This ever has been the desire and labor of the children of God One of the primary purposes for coming to the earth was to learn, in a fallen world, to distinguish between good and evil, and, in the fullness of faith, to receive that which is good and holy into our hearts and minds. By so doing, the power and influence of the Holy Ghost will bear sway in our lives, leading us from one point of grace unto another until we have fully partaken of the divine nature approve The Greek word which is here translated as approve derives from roots that mean test, discern, acceptable, think, be pleased by sincere As has been pointed out many times before, the word sincere derives from Latin roots which literally mean without wax, or without a mask. One cannot dissimulate in the presence of God Christ Simply put, the name Christ is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Messiah. In both Hebrew and Greek, the terms mean anointed one. Every prophet of God from the days of Adam has been anointed in preparation for their ministry to the world. Every king who has ruled by divine right has also been anointed as part of his ascendancy to the throne and the scepter. The same may be said of every 8 For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. 9 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and [in] all judgment; 10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Philip. 1:10 MD

13 priest who has administered the ordinances of the Priesthood, particularly those of the Melchizedek Priesthood, and most specifically in the House of the Lord. Some scholars have suggested that even though certain men have been anointed to be prophets and priests, or kings and priests, or prophets and kings, none but Jesus has been anointed prophet, priest, and king. Of course, these scholars have asserted such out of ignorance, not understanding that all those who are heirs of salvation and exaltation have been anointed prophets, priests, and kings in similitude of their Savior. Jesus is Lord of Lords, King of Kings, the Great High Priest who presides over all priesthood, the prophet who has inspired all prophets in whatever time or place in which they might have lived. He is our Master in all things, but his labors have been designed to bring us all back into the presence of God as he is The fruits of righteousness are found in our own character; obedience brings forth the blessings of Heaven, the greatest of which is coming to know precisely who and what God the Father is, and that we may become like Him. Our understanding of our potential has been the direct result of the atoning sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ, which has freed the children of men from the bondage of both death and hell, even as many as will choose to be free. Our personal salvation and exaltation constitutes the work of God, and there is no greater labor in all of the eternities Jesus Christ The author of eternal salvation, both of the body and the spirit through the power of the resurrection and his atoning sacrifice for sin Paul s eternal perspective, view of eternity supplied by the power and influence of the Holy Ghost, gave the Apostle assurance that those moments of adversity through which he was passing were all part of the economy of God. No matter where Paul found himself, no matter what the circumstances, no matter the nature of the extremities, the Lord God of Israel would use them to further His work among the children of men. Nothing in Paul s life would be wasted; all things would enhance the work of God. Therefore, Paul feared nothing that the world could do, but rather rejoiced in the developing opportunities for service that continually were laid out before him gospel That is to say, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance from sin, baptism by immersion for the remission of sins, the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end Paul had been and would continue to be a notable figure in the affairs of Rome. He had been condemned by both Jew and Gentile alike, and yet because he was a Roman citizen he could not be summarily dismissed. It was this dichotomy of political and religious opinion concerning him that made Paul a visible figure in Rome. That visibility made the Apostle an object of inquiry, which apparently had led to Paul having the opportunity to teach prominent citizens of Rome about the Gospel of Jesus Christ, men and women who otherwise might have remained in complete ignorance as to their potential for redemption from death and hell Christ Simply put, the name Christ is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Messiah. In both Hebrew and Greek, the terms mean anointed one. Every prophet of God from the days of Adam has been anointed in preparation for their ministry to the world. Every king who has ruled by divine right has also been anointed as part of his ascendancy to the throne and the scepter. The same may be said of every 11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. 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; 13 So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other [places]; Philip. 1:12 EM 4:

14 priest who has administered the ordinances of the Priesthood, particularly those of the Melchizedek Priesthood, and most specifically in the House of the Lord. Some scholars have suggested that even though certain men have been anointed to be prophets and priests, or kings and priests, or prophets and kings, none but Jesus has been anointed prophet, priest, and king. Of course, these scholars have asserted such out of ignorance, not understanding that all those who are heirs of salvation and exaltation have been anointed prophets, priests, and kings in similitude of their Savior. Jesus is Lord of Lords, King of Kings, the Great High Priest who presides over all priesthood, the prophet who has inspired all prophets in whatever time or place in which they might have lived. He is our Master in all things, but his labors have been designed to bring us all back into the presence of God as he is palace The Greek word which is here translated as palace derives from roots that mean praetorium, governor s courtroom, judgment hall, courthouse, encampment. In practice the word was used in diverse settings. The place of judgment might be as primitive as the general s tent or as luxurious as the emperor s mansion. Most commentators have concluded that as a Roman citizen, Paul would have been given comfortable accommodations as he waited for Caesar s judgment. The fact, however, that he advised the saints at Philippi to not be distressed at the way he was being treated may indicate that his circumstances may not have been as opulent as some have supposed We may assume that Paul is specifically speaking of the brethren in Rome, but a more general application could be understood as well. Paul was a gifted orator, admirably equipped to defend himself against all comers. He was the public lightning rod for all anti-christian sentiment and as he prevailed day after day over his opponents, the other emissaries of Christ began to take heart in their labors as well word Meaning the word of God or the word of the Lord, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many ancient manuscripts are quite explicit in this reference In the arena of public opinion there were many who sided with Paul and others who were decidedly against him and the Gospel which he presented to the world. The Apostle s antagonists were motivated by envy, covetous of his prominence among the religious leaders of the day. Inasmuch as they did not have anything of more value to say, anything of intrinsic merit, these men chose to array themselves against Paul in order to press themselves forward into the light of notoriety. They became bitter in their assaults, outrageous in their misrepresentations so that they might become popular. No doubt there was a market in Rome for such shenanigans. The viciousness of the mockers momentarily distracted some of those who were charged with the preaching of the Gospel of Christ, but Paul s steady stance at the heart of the furor encouraged them to teach as their mentor did, without fear and without rancor preach The Greek word which is here translated as preach derives from roots that mean herald, public crier Christ Simply put, the name Christ is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Messiah. In both Hebrew and Greek, the terms mean anointed one. Every prophet of God from the days of Adam has been anointed in preparation for their ministry to the world. Every king who has ruled by divine right has also been anointed as part of his ascendancy to the throne and the scepter. The same may be said of every 14 And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. 15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: Philip. 1:15 16 DHC 1: (44) Philip. 1:15 17 PM

15 priest who has administered the ordinances of the Priesthood, particularly those of the Melchizedek Priesthood, and most specifically in the House of the Lord. Some scholars have suggested that even though certain men have been anointed to be prophets and priests, or kings and priests, or prophets and kings, none but Jesus has been anointed prophet, priest, and king. Of course, these scholars have asserted such out of ignorance, not understanding that all those who are heirs of salvation and exaltation have been anointed prophets, priests, and kings in similitude of their Savior. Jesus is Lord of Lords, King of Kings, the Great High Priest who presides over all priesthood, the prophet who has inspired all prophets in whatever time or place in which they might have lived. He is our Master in all things, but his labors have been designed to bring us all back into the presence of God as he is The motivations of Paul s antagonists centered in their jealousy of his success. They would have their listeners believe, however, that their disagreements with the Apostle were founded in their faith and love for humanity. Nothing could have been further from the truth. They were vindictive persecutors attempting to manipulate public opinion against Paul so that they might achieve their murderous ends. Sadists all Christ Simply put, the name Christ is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Messiah. In both Hebrew and Greek, the terms mean anointed one. Every prophet of God from the days of Adam has been anointed in preparation for their ministry to the world. Every king who has ruled by divine right has also been anointed as part of his ascendancy to the throne and the scepter. The same may be said of every priest who has administered the ordinances of the Priesthood, particularly those of the Melchizedek Priesthood, and most specifically in the House of the Lord. Some scholars have suggested that even though certain men have been anointed to be prophets and priests, or kings and priests, or prophets and kings, none but Jesus has been anointed prophet, priest, and king. Of course, these scholars have asserted such out of ignorance, not understanding that all those who are heirs of salvation and exaltation have been anointed prophets, priests, and kings in similitude of their Savior. Jesus is Lord of Lords, King of Kings, the Great High Priest who presides over all priesthood, the prophet who has inspired all prophets in whatever time or place in which they might have lived. He is our Master in all things, but his labors have been designed to bring us all back into the presence of God as he is A man with any sensibilities at all could easily discern the difference between a fervent disciple of Jesus Christ and the morally bankrupt opponents of the Gospel of Christ. The true Christian rises above contention, without condescension, clearly articulating the truth to all those who have ears to hear and hearts to understand. Paul did not lash back at his opponents, but simply and clearly testified of all that he knew to be true, calling upon the spirit of God to confirm his teachings in the hearts and minds of all those who desired to know for themselves which of all the parties were correct gospel That is to say, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance from sin, baptism by immersion for the remission of sins, the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end Paul felt no anger towards those who mocked and railed against the principles of eternal life and salvation. Even the words of the antagonists raised 16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: 17 But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. 18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or 15

16 questions in the hearts and minds of the people which only the saints could satisfactorily answer. The honest in heart would seek the truth appropriately and the work of the Lord Jesus Christ would continue to grow unabated. The more that Satan and his minions howl, the more the truth will prevail. The children of men are, in their eternity identity, susceptible to light and truth. Truth is delicious to them, for the children of men are, in reality, the sons of God, the divine spirit offspring of deity. Again, those who have not destroyed their ability to perceive light and truth through conscious disobedience of the will of God, will reactive negatively to falsehood and will embrace the fullness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ Christ Simply put, the name Christ is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Messiah. In both Hebrew and Greek, the terms mean anointed one. Every prophet of God from the days of Adam has been anointed in preparation for their ministry to the world. Every king who has ruled by divine right has also been anointed as part of his ascendancy to the throne and the scepter. The same may be said of every priest who has administered the ordinances of the Priesthood, particularly those of the Melchizedek Priesthood, and most specifically in the House of the Lord. Some scholars have suggested that even though certain men have been anointed to be prophets and priests, or kings and priests, or prophets and kings, none but Jesus has been anointed prophet, priest, and king. Of course, these scholars have asserted such out of ignorance, not understanding that all those who are heirs of salvation and exaltation have been anointed prophets, priests, and kings in similitude of their Savior. Jesus is Lord of Lords, King of Kings, the Great High Priest who presides over all priesthood, the prophet who has inspired all prophets in whatever time or place in which they might have lived. He is our Master in all things, but his labors have been designed to bring us all back into the presence of God as he is Whether speaking of his eventual release from prison or his eventual exaltation in the Celestial Kingdom, Paul knew that his manner of teaching the Gospel was acceptable before the Lord. He appreciated the Philippian saints support of him in their prayers in conjunction with whisperings of the Spirit of God this That is to say, Paul s ability to confidently and consistently teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ in love, even in the face of grievous opposition Jesus Christ The author of eternal salvation, both of the body and the spirit through the power of the resurrection and his atoning sacrifice for sin A testimony of the fullness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ provides the servant of God with an unassailable confidence in the promises of God. Paul knew with a certainty that all of his efforts to bring salvation to the children of men was not in vain, that all who place their trust in the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, by accepting the covenants offered by the Father through the Son, would ultimately find peace and rest in the Kingdom of Heaven. Nothing could deter the Apostle in his ministry; whether he lived or died was of no import, so long as he pleased the Father of all Christ Simply put, the name Christ is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Messiah. In both Hebrew and Greek, the terms mean anointed one. Every prophet of God from the days of Adam has been anointed in preparation for their ministry to the world. Every king who in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. 19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 20 According to my earnest expectation and [my] hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but [that] with all boldness, as always, [so] now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether [it be] by life, or by death. 16

17 has ruled by divine right has also been anointed as part of his ascendancy to the throne and the scepter. The same may be said of every priest who has administered the ordinances of the Priesthood, particularly those of the Melchizedek Priesthood, and most specifically in the House of the Lord. Some scholars have suggested that even though certain men have been anointed to be prophets and priests, or kings and priests, or prophets and kings, none but Jesus has been anointed prophet, priest, and king. Of course, these scholars have asserted such out of ignorance, not understanding that all those who are heirs of salvation and exaltation have been anointed prophets, priests, and kings in similitude of their Savior. Jesus is Lord of Lords, King of Kings, the Great High Priest who presides over all priesthood, the prophet who has inspired all prophets in whatever time or place in which they might have lived. He is our Master in all things, but his labors have been designed to bring us all back into the presence of God as he is There is a superior translation of this verse. Note that the order of verses 21 and 22 has been reversed. But if I live in the flesh, ye are the fruit of my labor. Yet what I shall choose I know not. (JST, Philippians 1.21) 21 For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain. Philip. 1:21 [22] JST So long as Paul lived, he could perform the tasks that had been given to him by virtue of his ordination to the apostolic priesthood. Men, women, and children would hear his words, find faith in Jesus Christ, and then press forward in that faith to find eternal life and salvation through obedience and sacrifice. Were he to perish at the hands of his oppressors, Paul was certain to find rest in the paradise of God. Either prospect was a potential joy for him. If left to himself, he could not choose between them Christ Simply put, the name Christ is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Messiah. In both Hebrew and Greek, the terms mean anointed one. Every prophet of God from the days of Adam has been anointed in preparation for their ministry to the world. Every king who has ruled by divine right has also been anointed as part of his ascendancy to the throne and the scepter. The same may be said of every priest who has administered the ordinances of the Priesthood, particularly those of the Melchizedek Priesthood, and most specifically in the House of the Lord. Some scholars have suggested that even though certain men have been anointed to be prophets and priests, or kings and priests, or prophets and kings, none but Jesus has been anointed prophet, priest, and king. Of course, these scholars have asserted such out of ignorance, not understanding that all those who are heirs of salvation and exaltation have been anointed prophets, priests, and kings in similitude of their Savior. Jesus is Lord of Lords, King of Kings, the Great High Priest who presides over all priesthood, the prophet who has inspired all prophets in whatever time or place in which they might have lived. He is our Master in all things, but his labors have been designed to bring us all back into the presence of God as he is There is a superior translation of this verse. Note that the order of verses 21 and 22 has been reversed. For me to live, is to do the will of Christ; and to die, is my gain. (JST, Philippians 1.22) 22 But if I live in the flesh, this [is] the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. Philip. 1:22 [21] JST 17

18 The rearrangement of the text completely clarifies Paul s meaning. The prospects of continuing life or immediate death held nothing but prosperity for him Were Paul to die at the hands of the Romans or any other antagonist, he was blessed with the knowledge that he, as the spirit of a just man made perfect, could immediately come into the presence of his Savior and be more fully instructed in his stewardship as a benefactor of the children of men. Yet, by remaining in the flesh he could continue to bless and benefit those around him For In the inspired version, this word is replaced with Now strait The Greek word which is here translated as strait derives from roots that mean hold together, compress, arrest, compel, perplex, afflict, preoccupy. In other words, Paul was stuck in a vice, unable to choose which course he would rather take Christ Simply put, the name Christ is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Messiah. In both Hebrew and Greek, the terms mean anointed one. Every prophet of God from the days of Adam has been anointed in preparation for their ministry to the world. Every king who has ruled by divine right has also been anointed as part of his ascendancy to the throne and the scepter. The same may be said of every priest who has administered the ordinances of the Priesthood, particularly those of the Melchizedek Priesthood, and most specifically in the House of the Lord. Some scholars have suggested that even though certain men have been anointed to be prophets and priests, or kings and priests, or prophets and kings, none but Jesus has been anointed prophet, priest, and king. Of course, these scholars have asserted such out of ignorance, not understanding that all those who are heirs of salvation and exaltation have been anointed prophets, priests, and kings in similitude of their Savior. Jesus is Lord of Lords, King of Kings, the Great High Priest who presides over all priesthood, the prophet who has inspired all prophets in whatever time or place in which they might have lived. He is our Master in all things, but his labors have been designed to bring us all back into the presence of God as he is Paul s love and appreciation of the Philippian saints, and for all those for whom he had charge, constantly prompted him to edify and strengthen them to the best of his ability. He knew that there was yet much he could do for them. Hence, he desire to remain in mortality Paul s ruminations on the possibility of his living or dying have been presented in such a fashion that the Philippians are given to understand that Paul did not anticipate having his life taken at that time. This would suggest that the letter to the Philippians was not written during his last imprisonment, but one that occurred sometime prior to that which led to his execution There is a superior translation of this verse. That your rejoicing with me may be more abundant in Jesus Christ, for my coming to you again. (JST, Philippians 1:26) Again, it is quite clear that Paul fully expected to visit with them in person, an event which could only come to pass if he were released from his bonds Jesus Christ The author of eternal salvation, both of the 23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: 24 Nevertheless to abide in the flesh [is] more needful for you. 25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith; 26 That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again. Philip. 1:23 JST Philip. 1:23 24 TSWK 40 Philip. 1:26 JST 18