3:8–13 Qualifications of deacons

Paul mentions deacons in conjunction with overseers in Phil 1:1, and it is clear that the two offices were closely connected. Indeed the list of desirable qualities stated here is akin to that for overseers. Again, worthiness of the respect of others is of utmost importance, as are sincerity and general moral standards. Since candidates for both offices must be those not indulging in much wine, this suggests that excessive wine drinking was a problem among the people of Ephesus. Of greater importance is that the deacons must be of sound faith (9), a point often overlooked in appointments to the lesser Christian offices. For Paul the theological position was crucial. The testing referred to in v 10 is presumably by the Christian assembly to ensure that the necessary qualities are evident.

V 11 looks like an interlude, and some have suggested that it points to an order of deaconesses. Although such an order is not impossible, the primary reference is probably to deacons’ wives (as the niv). These must be serious in mind and careful in speech lest they detract from their husband’s work. The remaining requirements for deacons are closely paralleled in the section on overseers. Does the excellent standing (13) mean standing in the sight of the Christian community, or in the sight of outsiders, or in the sight of God? Of these the second seems most likely, not in the sense of providing for future promotion, but in exerting influence. This accords best with the reference to their assurance of faith.

Differing Ministries (6:1–6)

The language difficulty — some of the disciples were Aramaic-speaking and some Greek-speaking — must have caused real difficulties of administration, and the needs of the Hellenistic widows had been overlooked. Up to that time the Twelve had received all the voluntary offerings and had been responsible for their distribution among thousands of believers. The complaint showed that a devolution of ministries was necessary. It was not right that the specific ministry of the Twelve should be subordinated to administrative work (2, 4) and so help was needed. But administration was a delicate matter affecting the well-being of the whole church, so that this humble service required a good reputation, wisdom, and, above all, a manifestation of spiritual power (3). The brethren who helped in the selection of suitable men (3, 5) would naturally bear these conditions in mind, and also, very wisely, thought of presenting Hellenistic helpers, as is shown by the names of the Seven. There could thus be no further thought of favouritism in favour of the Aramaic-speaking community. Stephen is especially noted as a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit (5) and the wise and practical proceedings were accompanied by prayer (6).

REFLECTIONS

Responsive Leadership

True leadership strikes a balance between spiritual and practical oversight. We see the apostles, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, respond to a crisis with action. In this, they model how God calls leaders to address real world exigencies.

Adam T. Barr

For information on the Roman colony of Philippi in Macedonia, see note on Ac 16:12.

Place of Writing

Some scholars think that Paul wrote his captivity letters, including Philippians, from detention in Ephesus. A major reason is that Paul was also a prisoner in Phm 1, which was probably addressed to Asia Minor (compare Phm 2 with Col 4:17); they reason that if Onesimus fled from there and found Paul, Paul was probably nearby, as in Ephesus. Onesimus might well expect that a person of Philemon’s status had contacts in Ephesus, however, so fleeing farther, to Rome, is likewise reasonable. Moreover, from Php 2:25 it seems clear that Epaphroditus had traveled a long way from Philippi — a description that fits Rome better than Ephesus. (Epaphroditus may be from Philippi. One Epaphras was originally or partly from Asia Minor [cf. Col 4:12], but this was a common name.)

Although the phrase translated “palace guard” in 1:13 might apply to a governor’s residence (note the Greek term in Ac 23:35), the mention of Caesar’s household in 4:22 confirms that it likely does refer to the Praetorian Guard stationed around Rome (cf. Ac 28:16). The majority of scholars believe that Paul wrote this letter from Rome.

Purpose

Paul wrote this letter partly to thank the Philippian believers for their continued and unsolicited support (4:10 – 20). Writing from Roman custody, however, he is also concerned that the church may well face further persecution (1:30; earlier, cf. Ac 16:22 – 23; 1Th 2:2). He also urges believers to work together (Php 1:27; 2:2,14). Ancient speakers and writers commonly urged civic and other harmony, and Paul has reasons to stress this message in this letter. The Christians in Philippi’s house churches loved Paul, but they were not all getting along with each other (4:2 – 3); Paul offers multiple examples of serving others (2:5 – 8,17,20 – 21, 29 – 30). Paul also warns against false teachers who would demand circumcision, though it is not clear whether they have already arrived (3:2 – 21). ◆

quick glance

Author:

The apostle Paul

Audience:

The believers at Philippi, a prosperous Roman colony

Date:

About AD 61

Theme:

Paul thanks the Christians at Philippi for their unsolicited support, exhorts them to unity and encourages them to live joyfully in every circumstance.