Philippians 4:18-23 But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God. But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you. All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar’s household. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
‘But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you.’ You have sent me so much by Epaphroditus that I have all I need. Your gift is a sweet aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, and well-pleasing to God. Paul claimed to have all that he needed and more, he was thankful in everything and his life was a great savour for Christ’s testimony!
‘Sweet smell’ [Greek: Euodia] sweet perfume. An aroma of a sweet smell to God. That is, God was well pleased with the offering and sacrifice of Christ because it made possible the redemption of His fallen creation (Rom. 8:18-24).
‘But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.’ A promise that is still true to those who are in Christ and who are faithful to God as the Philippians were (4:14-18).
‘Caesar’s household’ – Nero was emperor of Rome at this time. A more cruel and worthless man never ruled the empire, yet among his household, there were several true Christians. Who they were is not known. Josephus says that the empress Poppaea was a worshiper of the true God (Antiquities, 20:8:11).
‘The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.’ No greater greeting and blessing can be found in life! By God’s grace we are saved (Acts 14:22; Eph. 2:5, 8), healed (Ps. 30:2-7; 103:3, 8; Acts 4:12; 14:3; 1Pet. 2:24) and are we conquerors (Rom. 8:31-39).
Living the Word 