Philippians - Verse-by-Verse Biblical Exegesis

that they rarely (if ever) are a determining factor when deciding between the nominative, vocative or
accusative cases. As a side note, it’s also possible to translate the conjuction “kai” as emphatic
(“especially”) or specific (“particularly’), rather than connective (“and”). This translation would add
credence to my viewpoint, which is also shared to a great extent by Dillow and Thieme in the
relevant opinions below.
Another question you might ask is, “Why did Paul use beloved twice in this verse, at the beginning
and at the end?” My answer is that the first instance of beloved refers to Paul’s assessment of
supergrace believers, while the second instance of beloved refers to the Lord’s assessment of all
believers. Paul places a special emphasis on beloved as supergrace believers because they are the
ones who provide him a wreath, his crown of glory. The second instance of beloved is meant to
remind the “brethren” that in God’s eyes all believers are ultimately “beloved.” So Paul wants to
give high honors to those believers who have been faithful and have attained supergrace experiential
status, but does not want to discourage those believers who have not reached supergrace because,
after all, the Lord loves them, too.
There is no such thing as equality on earth, and there will be no such thing as equality in heaven. I
do not believe that the words “brethren” and “beloved” mean the same thing, and I do not believe
Paul throws out the endearing term “beloved” to all believers indiscriminately. I do not believe
reversionistic believers contribute in any way to Paul’s wreath or crown of glory, unless you restrict
this verse to an evangelistic viewpoint. The entire tenor of the passages preceding this one, as
summarized by Paul’s inferential “therefore,” are related to experiential sanctification, not salvation.
Therefore, I interpret this verse in a pastoral vein rather than an evangelistic vein. Whichever
interpretation you prefer, one thing is clear: Paul commands (Imperative mood) all believers
(neophytes, reversionists and supergrace categories) to stand firm (Durative Present tense) in the
Christian life. They are to maintain stability and never retreat from the consistent intake,
metabolization and application of Bible doctrine.
REVELANT OPINIONS
Supergrace believers seek each other out because they are bored easily by immaturity. Spiritual
aristocracy prefers each others' company. Therefore, the Philippian believers are a source of
encouragement for Paul. Supergrace soul-rapport is a rare but highly desired blessing in life. Positive
Volition (+V) equals Inner Happiness. (R.B. Thieme, Jr.) The "crown of rejoicing" is a special honor
to those who have labored faithfully. (J. Dillow) “Stephanos” was used of the wreath awarded to the
victor in the games, as distinct from “diadema” the crown that was the symbol of sovereignty …
certainly by their continued faithfulness they ensue for him a crown on the day when the final work
will be spoken on his apostolic work. (P. O’Brien) Standing firm is difficult when a panic starts.
(A.T. Robertson) When the reality of Bible doctrine confronts the reality of a combat situation, you
have a clear choice. If you focus on God’s Word, concentration and courage will escort you through
the battlefield. If you focus on the problem or circumstances, worry and anxiety will dog your
footsteps. Regardless of the extent of your predicament, faith-rest will work. Bible doctrine in your
soul overcomes any difficulty. (R.B. Thieme, Jr.)