Saturday, September 23, 2017

Stand Fast


Philippians 4:1 “Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved.”

Several adjectives precede the command contained in this text. Not only does Paul twice use “beloved” to describe his relationship with the Philippians, but he also insists that he longs for them and anticipates joy at the recognition of the “crown” he will receive in heaven. One commentary emphasizes how these are intense words.  “Agapetos” is the descriptive Greek term translated “dearly beloved.” The Heavenly Father uses “agapetos” to express His love for His “beloved Son” in Matthew 3:17. Most of the New Testament letters freely use “agapetos” to describe various personal relationships with their brothers and sisters in Christ. That unique and deeply spiritual love is what demonstrates our difference to the unsaved.

John 13:34-35 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

1 Thessalonians 2:19 “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?”

 Philippians 1:27bStand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.’

1 Corinthians 16:13 “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.”

Galatians 5:1Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.”


1 Thessalonians 3:8 “For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord.”

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