It Starts Small

² I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. ³ Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Philippians 4:2-3

Unity.

Paul fervently champions the cause of unity among two sisters. This is a remarkable instance where he directly addresses individual believers in his letter. It is evident that he has received some troubling news. Perhaps this news is from Epaphroditus. It concerns the discord between Euodia and Syntyche. He longs for them to find harmony and reconcile their differences.

For reasons unknown, a tension had ignited, creating a rift that shattered their unity. These factions are perilous and threaten the very soul of the church. Paul, with fervent urgency, deemed it essential to address the turmoil. He passionately urged them to confront their conflict before it spiraled out of control.

It is far too common for believers to let divisions fester and hold grudges against one another. How insidious is the work of Satan, promoting disunity among us! We must stand guard and pour our hearts into preserving the oneness we’ve been called to (Ephesians 4:1). This involves being keenly aware of any conflicts and tackling them head-on without hesitance. Jesus emphasized the gravity of unity. He urged that we should even leave our gifts at the altar to pursue reconciliation! Is there a brother or sister who bears a grievance against you, or perhaps the other way around? Reach out to them this week. Resolve the conflict. Reignite that precious relationship before it spirals into something far worse.

In the Lord

Here we witness this profound truth echoing once more: without the Lord, humanity stands hopeless. We are fragmented by sins and differences. We are drowning in a sea of conflicting opinions. But take heart! With the Lord, the impossible becomes reality, and we can unite as one! God’s grace is an abundant force, powerful enough to heal all wounds. Seek Him with fervor, and ask for the overflowing love and compassion to forgive those who have wronged you.

True companion

Some scholars passionately assert that the Greek should be interpreted as a proper name, emphasizing the significance of this individual. Regardless, Paul undoubtedly speaks with about a specific person within the Philippian church. This figure might be an elder or a cherished friend of Euodia and Syntyche. They are entrusted with the vital mission of guiding these remarkable women. Their mission also includes leading all fellow believers toward a harmonious existence.

From this heartfelt reference, we must be reminded that every principle in the Bible holds transformative power for our lives! Paul understands that these principles are not just nuggets of wisdom. They are dynamic truths waiting to ignite our everyday existence. He boldly urged individuals to weave these timeless principles into the very fabric of their lives. He passionately encouraged the community to rally together. They should empower one another to live out these teachings with conviction and purpose!

You can embody the essence of a “true companion.” A true companion is not merely a friend. They are a powerful force. They speak the hard truths needed for others to flourish. These truths can be difficult to hear. A true companion stands shoulder to shoulder with their friends, igniting a fiery passion for love and good deeds. Reflect deeply on how you can uplift and encourage your Christian friends to wholeheartedly embrace the Word. When you reach out, strive to motivate them in concrete, specific ways that resonate, rather than offering mere generalities.

Co-workers

Paul often passionately addresses this word to believers. He boldly avoids terms like “waiters,” “watchers,” “sitters,” or “listeners.” It serves as a powerful reminder that we are all called to be God’s dedicated workers. Each of us has a unique and important mission crafted specifically for us by Him.

What work is God calling you to do for Him today?

---

Discussion Questions

• Who are Euodia and Syntyche?
• Why do you think Paul felt it necessary to specifically encourage them to live in harmony?
• Why say again “in the Lord”? What does this phrase mean?
• Who is the true companion Paul refers to?
• What did Paul want him to do?
• In what way do you think this individual could help Euodia and Syntyche live in harmony?
• What does this personal section show us about our own responsibility in the church?
• Why did Paul often use the term “workers”?
• What does this show us about our responsibility as believers?

---

© Kimberlee Smith 2025 http://www.itstartssmall.com All rights reserved.