Philippians 1:3 seems like a nice thing to say. Sometimes people put the reference number at the beginning or the ending of a note or letter. Verse 4 implies that the statement is backed-up with consistent prayers for those mentioned in verse 3. Verse 5 reveals a working partnership in Gospel truth and in Gospel work. Paul often gave greetings, in his letters, which mentioned thankfulness to God for the people to whom he was writing (i.e. Romans 1:8; I Corinthians 1:4). Was it just a formality? Or, was it something from the heart that revealed a deep love and care for them?
In this busy world, full of distractions and duties, is it possible to have the time and patience to really think of others, pray for them and interact with them? How will all the things get done? What are the reasons for paying so much attention to other Christians? What are the pitfalls if we don't do it? What about other priorities? Let's look at Paul's greetings a little more closely.
Greetings
Romans 1:8-11
I Corinthians 1:4-10
Philippians 1:3-8
I Thessalonians 1:1-3 - [Note "we" cp. 2:7-14]
II Thessalonians 1:1-4 - ["we"]
II Timothy 1:2-5
Philemon 1:1-5
Instructions
I Corinthians 12:25-27
Ephesians 4:1-6, 25 - 5:2; 5:18-21
Philippians 2:1-5
Colossians 3:12-15
Examples & Warnings
Romans 16 - [Note verses 1-16, 21-24 are mostly greetings. Verses 17-19 is a warning about divisions. Verses 20, 24-27 is a compiled benediction.]
Philippians 2:19-23
Colossians 3:1 cp. II Timothy 4:10
I John 2:19 cp. 3:16 |
