Philippians 4:8-23

Philippians 4:8

• “Whatever is true”

  • The Greek word translated truth here means “non-concealment.”

  • Matthew 22:16 – Jesus is true, all the way through.

• “Whatever is honorable” (also translated noble)

  • Philippians 1:27

• “Whatever is just”

  • II Samuel 23:23

  • Psalms 82:2

  • Proverbs 11:1

• “Whatever is pure”

  • II Peter 3:1; James 3:17; 1:27

• “Whatever is commendable” (or, of good report)

  • Something that is said well.

  • Proverbs 25:11

Philippians 4:11-13 – Paul suffered much for the gospel. See II Corinthians 11:16-33

Philippians 4:14 – See Hebrews 13:1, 3; 10:34

Philippians 4:18 – Compare Psalm 23.

Philippians 4:19 – See Matthew 25:40.

II John 1:1-4

II John 1:1 – The “elect lady” cannot be a local church because she is described as having children. Local churches are fully autonomous and do not have children.

There is a state into which all people enter when they obey truth.

• Acts 2:47; Galatians 3:26-27

• Hebrews 11:6; Acts 17:30; Romans 10:10; Acts 2:38

• When one gets into a right relationship with God, he must continue to walk in the light to remain in truth.

There is a correlated body of teaching known as truth that is understandable by man.

• Parts of the Bible may be more difficult than others, but the Bible is understandable.

• Ephesians 3:3-6

• Philippians 3:13-14

Truth furnishes the Christian’s motivation.

• Some groups try to use other things for motivation, such as sports or entertainment.

• Genesis 22 – Abraham arose early for truth’s sake. Hebrews 11:17-19

• Genesis 6 – Noah built the ark for truth’s sake.

• Hebrews 11:4 – Abel offered a better sacrifice for truth’s sake.

• Acts 20:28

• Acts 2:38; Ephesians 4:4-5; I Corinthians 12:27; I Timothy 5:22; James 1:27 – There are many things we must do for truth’s sake.

Truth is the governing principle of the Christian’s life.

• II John 1:4

• II John 1:2 – Truth dwells in us.

• II John 1:9 – We have to abide in the teaching of Christ.

Truth is indestructible

• II John 1:2

Those who walk in truth have peace with God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

• II John 1:3

• This is the glory of it all – peace with God!