Philippians 4:20 Study Bible: Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

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◄ Philippians 4:20 ►

To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

To our God and Father
This phrase emphasizes the personal and relational aspect of God in the life of believers. The Greek word for "God" here is "Theos," which signifies the supreme deity, the Creator of the universe. The use of "our" indicates a communal relationship, highlighting the unity of believers in Christ. "Father" (Greek: "Pater") underscores the intimate and familial relationship between God and His children. This dual designation of God as both "God" and "Father" reflects the balance of His sovereignty and His loving care, a theme that resonates throughout the New Testament. Historically, this understanding would have been revolutionary in a Greco-Roman context, where gods were often seen as distant and capricious.

be glory
The word "glory" (Greek: "doxa") refers to the honor, praise, and splendor that is due to God. In the biblical context, glory is often associated with the visible manifestation of God's presence and majesty. The call for God to receive glory is a recognition of His ultimate worthiness and the believer's response to His divine nature and acts. This phrase is a doxology, a short hymn of praises to God, which was a common practice in early Christian worship. It serves as a reminder that all aspects of life should reflect God's glory, aligning with the scriptural mandate to do everything for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).

forever and ever
This expression, in Greek "eis tous aionas ton aionon," literally translates to "unto the ages of the ages." It signifies the eternal nature of God's glory and reign. The repetition of "ages" emphasizes the unending duration of time, pointing to the infinite and timeless existence of God. In the historical context of the early church, this would have been a powerful affirmation of faith, especially in the face of persecution and temporal suffering. It reassures believers of the eternal hope and future they have in Christ, transcending the temporary nature of earthly life.

Amen
The word "Amen" is a transliteration from Hebrew, meaning "truly" or "so be it." It is a declaration of affirmation and agreement, often used to conclude prayers and doxologies. In the context of this verse, "Amen" serves as a seal of truth, affirming the preceding statement of God's eternal glory. It reflects the confidence and certainty that believers have in God's promises and character. The use of "Amen" in early Christian liturgy was a way for the congregation to collectively express their faith and agreement with the truths being proclaimed. It is a powerful reminder of the communal aspect of worship and the shared belief in the eternal glory of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Philippians, writing from prison to express gratitude and encouragement to the believers in Philippi.

2. Philippians
The recipients of the letter, a Christian community in the city of Philippi, known for their generosity and partnership in the gospel.

3. God the Father
The recipient of glory and honor, as acknowledged by Paul in this doxology.

4. Philippi
A Roman colony in Macedonia, significant for being one of the first places in Europe where Paul established a church.

5. Doxology
A short hymn of praises to God, often concluding a section of a letter or prayer, as seen in this verse.

Teaching Points

Acknowledging God's Sovereignty
Recognize that all glory belongs to God, who is sovereign over all creation. This acknowledgment should be a regular part of our worship and prayer life.

Eternal Perspective
Understand that God's glory is eternal, reminding us to live with an eternal perspective, focusing on what truly matters in light of eternity.

Gratitude and Praise
Cultivate a heart of gratitude and praise, as Paul exemplifies, regardless of circumstances, knowing that God is worthy of all glory.

Unity in Worship
Encourage unity in the church by collectively ascribing glory to God, fostering a community centered on worship and reverence for Him.

Living for God's Glory
Challenge yourself to live in a way that brings glory to God in every aspect of life, reflecting His character and love to others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does acknowledging God's eternal glory influence your daily decisions and priorities?

2. In what ways can you incorporate doxologies, like Philippians 4:20, into your personal prayer life?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty and eternal nature provide comfort in times of uncertainty or difficulty?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your actions and words bring glory to God in your community?

5. How can the church collectively demonstrate unity in ascribing glory to God, and what role can you play in fostering this unity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 11:36
This verse also concludes with a doxology, emphasizing that all things are from, through, and to God, highlighting His eternal glory.

1 Timothy 1:17
Paul offers a similar doxology, praising God as eternal, immortal, and invisible, underscoring the theme of God's eternal glory.

Ephesians 3:21
Paul again ascribes glory to God, this time in the church and in Christ Jesus, reinforcing the perpetual nature of God's glory.

Revelation 5:13
The heavenly vision of every creature giving glory to God and the Lamb, illustrating the ultimate fulfillment of God's eternal glory.

Sermons

A Grateful Heart	J. Lyth, D. D.	Philippians 4:10-20
Hearing and Doing	Biblical Treasury	Philippians 4:10-20
Hesitation Destructive	J. Denton.	Philippians 4:10-20
Importance of Opportunity		Philippians 4:10-20
Paul Thanks the Philippians for Their Contribution	R. Finlayson	Philippians 4:10-20
Paul's Gratitude	J. Lyth, D. D.	Philippians 4:10-20
Philippian Charity and Pauline Delicacy	Dean Vaughan.	Philippians 4:10-20
The Art of Divine Contentment	R.M. Edgar	Philippians 4:10-23
Glory is Due	J. Lyth, D. D.	Philippians 4:20-23
Parting Thoughts Should Embrace	J. Lyth, D. D., J. Lyth, D. D.	Philippians 4:20-23
The Spirit in Which to Close the Year	Homiletic Monthly	Philippians 4:20-23

People

Clement, Epaphroditus, Euodias, Paul, Philippians, Syntyche

Places

Macedonia, Philippi, Thessalonica

Topics

Ages, Amen, Forever, Glory, Throughout

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Philippians 4:20

     1461   truth, nature of
     8608   prayer, and worship
     8634   amen
     8646   doxology

Library

November 24. "I Can do all Things through Christ" (Phil. Iv. 13).
"I can do all things through Christ" (Phil. iv. 13). A dear sister said one day: "I have so much work to do that I have not time to get strength to do it by waiting on the Lord." Surely that was making bricks without straw, and even if it was the name of the Lord and the church, it was the devil's bondage. God sends not His servants on their own charges; but "He is able to make all grace abound towards us, that we, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound unto every good work." The …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

March 24. "And Again I Say, Rejoice" (Phil. Iv. 4).
"And again I say, rejoice" (Phil. iv. 4). It is a good thing to rejoice in the Lord. Perhaps you found the first dose ineffectual. Keep on with your medicine, and when you cannot feel any joy, when there is no spring, and no seeming comfort and encouragement, still rejoice, and count it all joy. Even when you fall into divers temptations, reckon it joy, and delight, and God will make your reckoning good. Do you suppose your Father will let you carry the banner of His victory and His gladness on to …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

August 24. "Let Your Moderation be Known unto all Men" (Phil. Iv. 5).
"Let your moderation be known unto all men" (Phil. iv. 5). The very test of consecration is our willingness not only to surrender the things that are wrong, but to surrender our rights, to be willing to be subject. When God begins to subdue a soul, He often requires us to yield the things that are of little importance in themselves, and thus break our neck and subdue our spirit. No Christian worker can ever be used of God until the proud self-will is broken, and the heart is ready to yield to God's …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

May 26. "Be Careful for Nothing; but in Everything by Prayer and Supplication with Thanksgiving Let Your Requests be Made Known unto God" (Phil. Iv. 6).
"Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God" (Phil. iv. 6). Commit means to hand over, to trust wholly to another. So, if we give our trials to Him, He will carry them. If we walk in righteousness He will carry us through. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God that He may exalt you in due time." There are two hands there--God's hand pressing us down, humbling us, and then God's hand lifting …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

December 17. "Be Careful for Nothing" (Phil. Iv. 6).
"Be careful for nothing" (Phil. iv. 6). What is the way to lay your burden down? "Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls." "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." That is the way to take His burden up. You will find that His burden is always light. Yours is a very heavy one. Happy day if you have exchanged burdens and laid down your loads at His blessed feet to take up His own instead. God wants to rest His workers, …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

March 10. "The Peace of God which Passeth all Understanding Shall Keep Your Hearts and Minds" (Phil. Iv. 7).
"The peace of God which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds" (Phil. iv. 7). It is not peace with God, but the peace of God. "The peace that passes all understanding" is the very breath of God in the soul. He alone is able to keep it, and He can so keep it that "nothing shall offend us." Beloved, are you there? God's rest did not come till after His work was over, and ours will not. We begin our Christian life by working, trying and struggling in the energy of the flesh to save …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

A Tender Exhortation
'Therefore, my brethren, dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.'--PHIL. iv. 1. The words I have chosen set forth very simply and beautifully the bond which knit Paul and these Philippian Christians together, and the chief desire which his Apostolic love had for them. I venture to apply them to ourselves, and I speak now especially to the members of my own church and congregation. I. Let us note, then, first, the personal bond which gives force …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Names in the Book of Life
'Other my fellow-labourers whose names are in the book of life.'--PHIL. iv. 3. Paul was as gentle as he was strong. Winsome courtesy and delicate considerateness lay in his character, in beautiful union with fiery impetuosity and undaunted tenacity of conviction. We have here a remarkable instance of his quick apprehension of the possible effects of his words, and of his nervous anxiety not to wound even unreasonable susceptibilities. He had had occasion to mention three of his fellow-workers, and …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Rejoice Evermore
'Rejoice in the Lord alway; and again I say, rejoice!'--PHIL. iv. 4. It has been well said that this whole epistle may be summed up in two short sentences: 'I rejoice'; 'Rejoice ye!' The word and the thing crop up in every chapter, like some hidden brook, ever and anon sparkling out into the sunshine from beneath the shadows. This continual refrain of gladness is all the more remarkable if we remember the Apostle's circumstances. The letter shows him to us as a prisoner, dependent on Christian charity …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Warrior Peace
'The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.'--PHIL. iv. 7. The great Mosque of Constantinople was once a Christian church, dedicated to the Holy Wisdom. Over its western portal may still be read, graven on a brazen plate, the words, 'Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.' For four hundred years noisy crowds have fought, and sorrowed, and fretted, beneath the dim inscription in an unknown tongue; …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Think on These Things
' . . . Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.'--PHIL. iv. 8. I am half afraid that some of you may think, as I have at times thought, that I am too old to preach to the young. You would probably listen with more attention to one less remote from you in years, and may be disposed to …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

How to Obey an Impossible Injunction
'Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.'--PHIL. iv. 6. It is easy for prosperous people, who have nothing to trouble them, to give good advices to suffering hearts; and these are generally as futile as they are easy. But who was he who here said to the Church at Philippi, 'Be careful for nothing?' A prisoner in a Roman prison; and when Rome fixed its claws it did not usually let go without drawing blood. …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Farewell Words
'Now unto our God and Father be the glory for ever and ever, Amen. Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me salute you. All the saints salute you, especially they that are of Caesar's household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.'--PHIL. iv. 20-23 (R.V.). These closing words fall into three unconnected parts, a doxology, greetings, and a benediction. As in all his letters, the Apostle follows the natural instinct of making his last words loving words. …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

How to Say 'thank You'
'But I rejoice in the Lord greatly, that now at length ye have revived your thought for me; wherein ye did indeed take thought, but ye lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content. I know how to be abased, and I know also how to abound: in everything and in all things have I learned the secret both to be filled and to be hungry, both to abound and to be in want. I can do all things in Him that strengtheneth me. Howbeit …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Gifts Given, Seed Sown
'And ye yourselves also know, ye Philippians, that in the beginning of the Gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church had fellowship with me in the matter of giving and receiving, but ye only; for even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my need. Not that I seek for the gift; but I seek for the fruit that increaseth to your account. But I have all things, and abound: I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things that came from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Prayer Perfumed with Praise
The point to which I would draw your attention is this: that whether it be the general prayer or the specific supplication we are to offer either or both "with thanksgiving." We are to pray about everything, and with every prayer we must blend our thanksgivings. Hence it follows that we ought always to be in a thankful condition of heart: since we are to pray without ceasing, and are not to pray without thanksgiving, it is clear that we ought to be always ready to give thanks unto the Lord. We must …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 25: 1879

How to Keep the Heart
This evening we shall use another figure, distinct from the one used in the morning, of the reservoir. We shall use the figure of a fortress, which is to be kept. And the promise saith that it shall be kept--kept by "the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, through Christ Jesus." Inasmuch as the heart is the most important part of man--for out of it are the issues of life--it would be natural to expect that Satan, when he intended to do mischief to manhood, would be sure to make his strongest …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858

Contentment
We, my brethren, might well be willing to endure Paul's infirmities, and share the cold dungeon with him, if we too might by any means attain unto such a degree of contentment. Do not indulge, any of you, the silly notion that you can be contented without learning, or learn without discipline. It is not a power that may be exercised naturally, but a science to be acquired gradually. The very words of the next text might suggest this, even if we did not know it from experience. We need not be taught …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 6: 1860

The Bible the Great Civilizer
(Fourth Sunday in Lent.) PHILIPPIANS iv. 8. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. It may not be easy to see what this text has to do with the story of Joseph, which we have just been reading, or with the meaning of the Bible of which I have been speaking to you …
Charles Kingsley—The Gospel of the Pentateuch

Preface. And as to Christ Thy Lord
Preface. and as to Christ thy Lord, most comely "as the lily among thorns," being his "love among the daughters," Cant. ii. 2. so also, thou, in a special way, art the dearly beloved and longed for, the joy and crown, of every sincere servant of Christ in the gospel, Phil. iv. 1. Thou art, if not the only, yet the chief object of their labours, their work being either to confirm and strengthen thee in thy way, that thou mayest so stand fast in the Lord, or remove impediments, make crooked things …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Christmas Peace
(Sunday before Christmas.) Phil. iv. 4. Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. This is a glorious text, and one fit to be the key-note of Christmas-day. If we will take it to heart, it will tell us how to keep Christmas-day. St. Paul has been speaking of two good women, who seem to have had some difference; and he beseeches them to make up their difference, and be of the same mind in the Lord. And then he goes on to tell them, and all Christian people, why they should make up their …
Charles Kingsley—Town and Country Sermons

Table of Contents
Chapter 1 The Fellowship of Prayer (Philippians 4:6.) Chapter 2 Our Requests Made Known unto God (Philippians 4:6.) Chapter 3 God's Peace Obtained in Answer to Prayer (Philippians 4:6, 7.) Chapter 4 The Praying that Glorifies God (John 14:13.) Chapter 5 Praying without Doubting (Mark 11:23.) Chapter 6 Praying with Desire (Mark 11:24.) Chapter 7 A Manifestation of God in Answer to Prayer (Acts 4:31.) Chapter 8 The Intercessory Prayers of Christians (Luke 11:5, 6.) Chapter 9 The Three Essentials of …
T. M. Anderson—Prayer Availeth Much

Worry Versus Peace
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.' (Philippians iv. 6, 7.) Before the full bearing and value of these verses can be realized, I think they require to be read several times over. Even if the sentences are read through slowly, just as they stand, a deep sense of blessing and rest steals into …
T. H. Howard—Standards of Life and Service

Jehovah
"That men may know that thou, whose name alone is Jehovah, art the most High over all the earth." Among all the names of God perhaps the most comprehensive is the name Jehovah. Cruden describes this name as the incommunicable name of God. The word Jehovah means the self-existing One, the "I am"; and it is generally used as a direct revelation of what God is. In several places an explanatory word is added, revealing some one of His special characteristics; and it is to these that I want particularly …
Hannah Whitall Smith—The God of All Comfort

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