2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to AGREE WITH EACH OTHER IN THE LORD. Philippians 4
Paul says a lot of very powerful things in Philippians, especially towards the end of the Book, but in the midst of them he suddenly addresses a fractured relationship between two ladies. He says they both contended with him for the Gospel, but he’s concerned that something has come between them. Paul, and the Lord, are concerned for relationships between individuals in the body. He urges them to AGREE IN THE LORD, seeking for restoration of relationship in the Body of Christ.
3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion (loyal yokefellow, another labourer for the Gospel), help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Paul asks another co-worker to help mend the division, perhaps someone who knows both of them and is willing to help. The Bible is a very honest book, it doesn’t gloss over character flaws or the sins of God’s people. In the middle of his discourse, Paul is driven back to the need to try to restore unity between two individuals. This shows how important personal relationships are within the body and yet we know there’s much division which is dishonouring to the Lord.
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 LET YOUR GENTLENESS BE EVIDENT TO ALL. THE LORD IS NEAR!
Paul, by the Spirit continues to urge Gentleness within the Body of Believers, because the LORD IS NEAR. We all have different characters and some stronger and some softer, but Paul warns us to be careful because the Lord sees and knows how we treat others.
10 I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there be no divisions among you and that you BE PERFECTLY UNITED IN MIND AND THOUGHT. 11 My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. 1 Corinthians 1
Division within the Body is a breeding ground for all kinds of strife to enter. A United Church cannot be defeated from outside, but can be defeated by division within and that’s why the Spirit of the Lord repeatedly urges us to be united in Christ.
13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul? 1 Corinthians 1
The Godhead is always in unity and the Spirit seeks for this unity in the Body, it’s so important we recognise Christ’s Body and remember that the LORD IS NEAR.
May the Lord bless and keep you today. Immanuel, God is with us.