Articles
Peace and Unity in Christ’s Body
There isn’t much information that can be gleaned about Euodia and Syntyche, the two women Paul names in Philippians 4:2. Paul is encouraging them to cooperate for the Lord and embolden fellow Christians to aid them in growing closer to and serving Christ. People attempt to elaborate on these women and while it would be interesting to know, the two most important facts to know about these verses are:
- The purpose of the first few verses of Philippians 4 is to exhort all brethren in Christ.
- Women are as valuable as men to Christ and His church.
Modern Bibles have chapters and paragraph titles to help a reader's understanding, but originally Paul’s letters would have been read with no such breaks. Philippians 3:20-4:3 reads, “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved. I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.” Christians must stay obedient and firm in their faith as we wait for Jesus Christ’s return. One tool that aids Christians in this endeavor is the spiritual unity and encouragement from fellow brethren in His church. Psalm 133:1-3 says, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! … For there the LORD has commanded the blessing, life forevermore.”
By not delving into the backgrounds of Euodia, Syntyche, and Clement (Phil. 4:3) amongst others throughout his writings, Paul is demonstrating the impartiality Christians should have for each other. In Christ’s church, His children are to be unified and peaceful to all. 1 Corinthians 16:20 reads, “All the brothers send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.” Paul’s words in Ephesians 4:1-6 further this sentiment when he commands brethren to bear with one another with humility, gentleness, and love to maintain unity in the Spirit through peace. No matter who you are, you are valuable and have something to offer others in the body of Christ.
