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"To be of the same mind in the Lord."

Text: Philippians 4:2

NIPPING PROBLEMS IN THE BUD

The Apostle Paul was very skilled in his ministry as an apostle and shepherd. He knew that problems are best nipped in the bud before they get out of control. Problems will arise from time to time. The following text offers a glimpse of how Paul resolved difficulties.

“I implore Euodia and Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.
And I urge you also, true companion,
help these women who laboured with me in the gospel,
with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers,
whose whose names are in the Book of Life.”

Philippians 4:2-3

1. Euodia and Syntyche

a) They were fellow workers with Paul.

b) Clement was one of the fellow workers named.

c) There were other fellow workers but these were not named.

d) Euodia and Syntyche apparently had problems with each other.

i) The nature of the problem was not disclosed.

ii) It was probably not of a doctrinal nature or else Paul would have addressed it outright.

iii) They may have some inter-personal problems with each other.

iv) They were not able to resolve their difficulties with each other.

v) This could have been a problem that threatened the unity of the Team.

2. Paul’s personal plea

a) Paul made a personal plea to the two ladies.

b) He realised the limitations of the personal plea though.

3. Help from others

a) Help was sought from a person who was well-respected.

b) He was called “a true companion”.

c) He was urged to help the two ladies to reconcile with each other.

4. Whose names are in the Book of Life

a) A reference to all believers.

b) A gentle reminder to all, especially Euodia and Syntyche, that they are not “enemies” but “family” and partakers of eternal life together.