Principles From The Prison

Let us begin today to muse on Philippians 3:1-4:23. I find here the principles from the prison. Paul often uses the aid of principles to teach. We have used principles to learn math, Bible verses and telephone numbers. In verse 3:1 I find the principle of conclusion and blessing.  I see in the text  the phrase “Finally brethren”, a concluding repetition. Paul uses this phrase five times in his books.( 2Cor.13:11, Eph. 6:10, Phil3:1,4:8, and 2Thess. 3:1) The phrase means further more or something more. Do not be alarmed when the preacher says finally, because he is now going to give you the heart of his message. I am glad Paul didn’t stop at 3:1 or 4:8, we would have been robbed of so much. There is also a concluding rejoicing. Paul says three times in this book rejoice in the Lord. The phrase means to bubble over with praise and thanksgiving. Paul did not find it a burden to repeat himself, but knew it was a great aid to learning. The heart of his message is coming, which is Christ only, always, living in me. Only one life twill soon be past, only what is done for Christ will last.