v1: This verse fits better with the end of ch 3. Our confidence in God's promises strengthens us to stand for the Lord. We can do what is right, since He is with us, and is our guarantee.

Paul describes a group of Christians as his “joy and crown.” His happiness was bound up in their Christ-likeness. Here is reward for his labour.

v2-20: Seeking peace. The disciple is a man of peace, peace with God, peace with other Christians, peace with his circumstances.

v2: In contrast with Timothy and Epaphroditus, who are remembered for their faithfulness, Euodia and Syntyche are mentioned for their disagreement. It seems that this was quite a serious problem; it may have been that they had some profile in the church.  

Whilst Euodia and Syntyche had a falling out, Paul commends these women who had contended at his side for the sake of the gospel.

v3: Companionship in the gospel, each having the yoke of Christ (Matt 11.29), involving men and women. It seems also that "these women" were Euodia and Syntyche. Once they served the Lord alongside Paul, now they had entered into a protracted argument.

Labourers and fellow- workers, for service is better together. Whatever our struggles and our service, our confidence is in God, and that our names are written in "the book of life".

v4: Whatever the circumstances, rejoice in the Lord. Paul had learned this, and urges others to do the same.

v5: Whilst gentleness is commended elsewhere in the NT, the words translated 'gentleness' or 'moderation' is better as 'reasonable' or 'fair-minded.' It ia a word of strength as we uphold Christ's ways amidst challenging or controversial circumstances.  

This reasonable-ness means we avoid extremes and harshness. The Lord's return is part of our motivation. 

Notice the spectrum of Christian life; unity (v2); service (v3), joy (v4); gentleness (v5).

v6: Worry is answered and replaced by prayer. Prayer is to be filled with thanksgiving, which must reflect and encourage an attitude of gratitude.

Make our requests known to God, telling Him what is on our hearts. Even though He already knows, we are commanded to tell Him.

v7: Prayer to God brings peace from God, to garrison and protect our hearts and minds.

v8: The command to set our minds on spiritual things, in contrast with the attitudes of some (3.19). By filling our minds with good things, there is no room for the bad. Notice too that these qualities reflect the character of Christ;

• True; not deceitful, something upon which others can rely, John 14.6;
• Noble; grave, honest, reverent, dignified; seen in Christ's silence, Matt 26.63-64;
• Right; righteous, just, meeting a standard, set like a straight edge, Matt 22.16;
• Pure; free from defilement or contamination, Heb 7.36;
• Lovely; pleasing, agreeable, as a woman's body
• Admirable; respected, good reputation, Luke 23.47;
• Excellent; good, virtuous, Heb 1.2-4;
• Praiseworthy; worthy of commendation, Matt 3.17.

The command is clear; we are to meditate of these things, setting our hearts and minds on those things which are like Christ..

v9: As in 3.17, take note of the example of godly men. We are thereby assured of the knowledge of God's presence.

v10-13: Personal contentment; Paul was utterly at peace whatever the situation. He had learned this by his experiences; 2 Cor 11; 1 Tim 6.8; Heb 13.5; Job 1.21. The world is full of dissatisfaction, but the Christian finds his strength in Christ, and he can therefore be content.  Paul’s desires echo those of Christ Himself in Matt 26.39; John 12.28; he truly sought the Father’s glory, whatever the outcome for himself.

v14-16: Paul commended the Philippians for their generosity. Their giving was truly exceptional, and here that church is held up to the world as an example to follow. 

v17: Paul's desire is that they be rewarded for their attitude.

v18: The most recent gift was clearly very generous, "full payment...amply supplied". Such giving honours God, and is a fragrant offering to Him.

v19: Our confidence is that God will meet all our needs. This is true, not because God had met Paul’s needs, but because of “His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” We therefore have all we need.

v20: Through such giving God is glorified.

v21-23: Closing prayers, sharing spiritual greetings.