What to Get the Man Who has Everything
There is no doubt that Christ made Saul of Tarsus into a new man. Saul, known in the New Testament as the apostle Paul, tirelessly worked for the kingdom of His Savior. Though once a persecutor of His followers, Paul dedicated his remaining years after conversion to bringing many to know and follow the Man he once reviled.
Through this journey, Paul’s change of priorities is evident. In concluding his letter to the Philippians (chapter 4), he wrote, “For I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content” (11b). This was not a mystical inner-peace feeling; it was the result of coming to appreciate that, no matter what events may be transpiring, the Savior is strong enough to supply everything that is needed.
The Philippians had been faithful friends to the apostle. This is apparent in the writings that follow Paul’s declaration of contentment when he stated that they “shared” in his trouble (14) and “entered into partnership” with him (15). This group of saints was unashamed to stand with a man who others had spurned; they willingly joined with one who loved and served the same Savior they loved and served. Though he had not asked, they readily supplied what was needed for this contented warrior of the faith.
Paul’s reaction to their generosity is intriguing. He first acknowledges their kindness (ESV) in sharing in his troubles (14). Other translations read, “you have done well.” The idea expressed by Paul lauded the attractiveness of their attitude and noted that their actions were worthy of commendation. Still, he did not spend a great deal of time writing about how helpful the gift was to him; instead, he stated what it meant in their relationship with God by calling it a “fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God” (18). In other words, God was the true recipient of this kindness; by helping Paul, they demonstrated their allegiance to the heavenly Father. In return, Paul told the Philippians what they could expect: “My God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (19). This was certainly not a reciprocal “health and wealth” offer to these saints; instead, it was a promise that they could have the same contentment that he had in knowing that God supplies all needs.
The example of the Philippians is admirable in all types of situations. Christians demonstrate this same spirit of sacrifice when helping the sick, caring for the poor, aiding a struggling brother, or a host of other times when a “fragrant offering” is given. Consider, though, a similar situation to that in which the Philippians were involved.
While there are no apostles on the earth today, there are a host of men and their families who have committed themselves to spread the gospel in “difficult places,” as those in past times described it in their prayers. Like the apostle, many of these faithful men and women do not openly express their needs, choosing instead to trust that God will provide what is needed. In these situations, the Philippians set a good example:
- They were concerned (10). Support for men and their families in distant lands must never be minimized to a check in the mail. Concern indicates a loving attitude that seeks to know the needs of others. The modern era offers opportunities of which the ancients would have never dreamed. With a mere click of a button, communication can be sent throughout the world in seconds. Concern means not only availing oneself of these opportunities but having the mindset that seeks to know what can be done to help.
- They shared in trouble (14). The word Paul used spoke of affliction, meaning pressure that was exerted on him by enemies of the cross. This could have applied to persecutions, imprisonments, reviling, or many other evil actions to stop his good work. In such circumstances, there is a tendency to not become involved, fearing similar reprisal. The Philippians were not ashamed to own their Lord by being unashamed to own Paul. It is still important to reaffirm a commitment to those who preach that if persecution comes, fellow saints will not abandon them.
- They partnered with him (15). Foreign lands can be lonely places. A different culture, different language, and a different money system are just a few reminders that one is not at home. When a church partners with a man in his work of preaching, it should make sure he knows that it is a “team effort.” Visits from members of the congregation, frequent letters of encouragement and interest in the work, and financial aid for helping spread the gospel and helping needy saints in his area are good reminders that he and his family do not work alone.
Had the Philippians shunned Paul or shown apathy toward his work, his efforts would not have changed; indeed, he was a man who had everything because he had committed everything to the Lord. However, these good saints loved the Lord and loved Paul; because of this, they wanted to be a part of his work. May God grant every faithful congregation of His people the same opportunity to partner with faithful kingdom workers and may He also grant these congregations the moxie to show full fellowship in the chosen work. When this is done, both workers and partners provide a fragrant sacrifice to their faithful Savior.
