Philippians 4:20 - Meaning and Application

The apostle ends this letter by praising God. “Now to God and our Father be glory forever and ever. Amen” (Philippians 4:20). Notice how he speaks of God as “our Father.” That is a great kindness on God’s part, because he lets sinners call him Father. It is also a special blessing of the gospel. Since God is our Father, we should think of him as near to us, tender toward us, and ready to help, not as a harsh ruler or an enemy.

We are also to give God glory as Father, giving him credit for his own greatness and for all his mercy to us. We should gladly admit that every good thing comes from him and give the praise back to him. This praise should not be momentary or partial. It should be steady and lasting, “forever and ever.”

Paul then sends greetings to his friends in Philippi. “Greet every saint in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:21). He means, “Give my warm love to all the Christians among you.” He does not send greetings only to the leaders, such as the bishops and deacons, or only to the church as a whole. He remembers every believer. Paul had a kind heart toward all true Christians.

He also sends greetings from those who were with him in Rome. “The brethren who are with me greet you.” That includes the ministers and all the believers there. He especially mentions “those of Caesar’s household,” meaning Christians connected with the emperor’s court. It is striking that there were saints in Caesar’s household. Even though Paul was in prison in Rome for preaching the gospel by the emperor’s order, some people in the emperor’s own house had believed. The gospel had already reached some of the rich and powerful. And because these believers came from court life, they may have shown a more polished courtesy than others. This shows how grace can make good manners even more beautiful.

Paul ends with his usual blessing: “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” He asks that the free favor and goodwill of Christ would be their portion and joy.