Philippians 4:5

KJV

Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord [is] at hand.

KJV (with Strong's)

Let {G1097} your {G5216} moderation {G1933} be known {G1097} unto all {G3956} men {G444}. The Lord {G2962} is at hand {G1451}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Let everyone see how reasonable and gentle you are. The Lord is near!

Berean Standard Bible

Let your gentleness be apparent to all. The Lord is near.

American Standard Version

Let your forbearance be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Philippians 4:5 is a concise yet profound exhortation from the Apostle Paul, urging believers to demonstrate a spirit of gentleness, reasonableness, and forbearance to all people, whether inside or outside the church. This outward manifestation of Christian character is grounded in the profound theological truth that the Lord's presence is ever-near, both in His abiding spiritual presence and in the imminent expectation of His glorious return, providing both motivation and empowerment for such a disposition.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Philippians 4:5 is strategically placed within Paul's concluding exhortations in his letter to the Philippians, often called the "epistle of joy." Following the command to "Rejoice in the Lord always" in [Philippians 4:4](/philippians/4-4 "Philippians 4:4 - Rejoice in the Lord Always"), this verse serves as a crucial bridge, connecting the internal disposition of joy with the external demonstration of Christian character. It immediately precedes Paul's instruction to "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God" in [Philippians 4:6](/philippians/4-6 "Philippians 4:6 - Do Not Be Anxious, But Pray"), highlighting how a gentle and reasonable spirit, coupled with the awareness of God's nearness, undergirds a life free from anxiety and rich in prayer. The entire chapter emphasizes unity, peace, and practical Christian living, building upon the themes of humility and self-sacrifice introduced earlier in [Philippians 2](/philippians/2 "Philippians 2 - Humility and Exaltation of Christ").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Philippi was a Roman colony, proud of its Roman citizenship and customs, which often emphasized strict adherence to law, justice, and social hierarchy. In such a setting, the concept of "moderation" or "gentleness" (Greek _epieikeia_) would have stood in stark contrast to the prevailing cultural norms of asserting one's rights or maintaining social status. The Philippian church itself, though generally strong, faced internal challenges, such as the disagreement between Euodia and Syntyche mentioned in [Philippians 4:2](/philippians/4-2 "Philippians 4:2 - Euodia and Syntyche"), and external pressures, including potential persecution or societal disdain for their faith. Paul's exhortation for believers to exhibit gentleness to "all men" (both fellow believers and the wider non-Christian society) was therefore a radical call for counter-cultural behavior, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel in a way that was both attractive and challenging to the Roman mindset.

* **Key Themes:** Two primary theological themes emerge from Philippians 4:5. Firstly, the verse underscores the theme of **Christian Character and Witness**. The "moderation" or "gentleness" called for is not merely a personal virtue but a public demonstration, a visible testimony to the transforming power of Christ. It reflects the character of God Himself and of Christ, who is described as "meek and lowly in heart" in [Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Learn from Jesus"). This theme is echoed throughout Paul's letters, emphasizing that believers are to "walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called" ([Ephesians 4:1](/ephesians/4-1 "Ephesians 4:1 - Walk Worthy of Your Calling")). Secondly, the verse highlights the **Eschatological Hope and Divine Imminence**. The phrase "The Lord is at hand" carries a dual significance: the constant, abiding presence of the Lord with His people (as promised in [Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - Jesus' Great Commission and Promise of Presence")) and the imminent expectation of Christ's second coming ([James 5:8](/james/5-8 "James 5:8 - The Lord's Coming Is Near")). This awareness serves as a powerful motivation for godly living, shaping believers' priorities and attitudes in light of eternity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **moderation (Greek, _epieikḗs'_):** This term, G1933, goes far beyond mere temperance. Derived from _epi_ (upon) and _eikō_ (to yield), it signifies a disposition that is "appropriate" or "mild." It conveys the idea of gentleness, reasonableness, forbearance, equity, and a willingness to yield one's strict rights for the sake of peace and grace. It is the opposite of harshness, rigidity, or contentiousness. It implies a spirit that is not overly insistent on its own way but is adaptable and considerate, reflecting a gracious and fair-minded approach to others.
* **known (Greek, _ginṓskō'_):** G1097, a prolonged form of a primary verb, means "to know" in a comprehensive sense, implying not just intellectual apprehension but experiential knowledge and recognition. The passive voice ("be known") indicates that this quality should be evident or perceived by others, not merely an internal feeling. It suggests that the believer's gentleness should be a public, observable characteristic that others can readily identify and acknowledge.
* **at hand (Greek, _engýs'_):** G1451, from a primary verb meaning "to squeeze" or "throttle," denotes proximity, either literally or figuratively, of place or time. In this context, it carries a dual meaning: the Lord's immediate presence and accessibility to His people, providing comfort and strength, and the imminent return of Jesus Christ, His second coming. This imminence serves as a powerful motivation for the believer's conduct, grounding their present actions in an eternal perspective.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Let your moderation be known unto all men":** This is an imperative command, urging believers to actively display a specific quality. The "moderation" (gentleness, reasonableness, forbearance) is not to be a private virtue but a public testimony, observable and recognizable by "all men"—both fellow believers and those outside the faith. This outward demonstration serves as a powerful witness to the transformative power of Christ in a believer's life, showing a character that stands apart from worldly harshness or self-assertion. It implies a yielding spirit that prioritizes grace and understanding over strict justice or personal rights.
* **"The Lord is at hand":** This clause provides the profound theological motivation and empowerment for the preceding command. "At hand" (Greek _engýs_) carries a dual significance. Firstly, it assures believers of the Lord's constant, intimate presence and accessibility, offering comfort, strength, and guidance in every situation. This awareness empowers them to live gently, knowing they are not alone. Secondly, it points to the imminent return of Jesus Christ. This eschatological hope provides a compelling reason for living righteously, patiently, and with an eternal perspective, knowing that all earthly troubles are temporary and the ultimate vindication and reward are near.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. It begins with an **Imperative** ("Let your moderation be known"), which is a direct command, underscoring the urgency and non-negotiable nature of this Christian virtue. This command is followed by a powerful **Motivation Clause** ("The Lord is at hand"), which provides the theological grounding and impetus for the preceding instruction. This juxtaposition creates a cause-and-effect relationship: because the Lord is near, believers are enabled and compelled to live with gentleness. There is also an implied **Contrast** between the world's typical self-assertion and the Christian's counter-cultural gentleness, making the believer's life a visible **Public Witness**. The phrase "unto all men" emphasizes the universal scope of this witness, extending beyond the Christian community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Philippians 4:5 profoundly connects the believer's ethical conduct with their eschatological hope and the immanent presence of God. The call for "moderation" or "gentleness" is not merely a call to be nice, but to embody a divine attribute. God Himself is characterized by patience, long-suffering, and grace, as seen in His dealings with humanity throughout salvation history. This virtue, therefore, reflects the very character of Christ, who perfectly exemplified gentleness and humility. The awareness that "the Lord is at hand" transforms the believer's perspective, shifting focus from temporal anxieties to eternal realities. This divine proximity—both in spiritual presence and anticipated return—empowers believers to live out this counter-cultural gentleness, knowing that their efforts are not in vain and that ultimate justice and peace reside with the returning Lord. This verse thus integrates Christology, eschatology, and practical ethics into a seamless whole, demonstrating how theological truth directly shapes daily living.

* [Titus 3:2](/titus/3-2 "Titus 3:2 - Be Gentle to All People")
* [2 Corinthians 10:1](/2_corinthians/10-1 "2 Corinthians 10:1 - The Gentleness and Mildness of Christ")
* [James 5:8](/james/5-8 "James 5:8 - The Lord's Coming Is Near")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Philippians 4:5 offers timeless and profoundly practical guidance for believers in every age. In a world often characterized by harshness, contention, and the relentless assertion of individual rights, the call to "let your moderation be known unto all men" stands as a radical counter-cultural imperative. It challenges us to embody a spirit of gentleness, reasonableness, and forbearance, even when we are wronged or when our rights are challenged. This means choosing grace over strict justice, understanding over condemnation, and patience over impatience. Such a disposition is not weakness but a powerful demonstration of Christ's character working through us, making our faith visible and attractive to a watching world. This gentle demeanor is sustained by the profound truth that "the Lord is at hand." This dual assurance—of His abiding presence in our lives and His imminent return—provides both comfort and motivation. It reminds us that our struggles are temporary, our ultimate hope is secure, and our lives are lived under the watchful, loving eye of our sovereign Lord. This eternal perspective frees us from anxiety and empowers us to respond with grace in all circumstances, knowing that the Lord Himself is our strength and our coming King.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life (e.g., family, work, social media) do you find it most challenging to demonstrate "moderation" or gentleness?**
* **How does the awareness that "the Lord is at hand" (both in His presence and His return) practically influence your daily interactions and your response to difficult situations?**
* **What is one tangible step you can take this week to intentionally "let your moderation be known" to someone who might not expect it from you?**

### FAQ

**What does "moderation" truly mean in Philippians 4:5?**

Answer: The King James Version's "moderation" translates the Greek word _epieikeia_ (G1933), which carries a much richer meaning than mere temperance or self-control. It signifies gentleness, reasonableness, forbearance, equity, and a willingness to yield one's strict rights. It's about being adaptable and considerate, not demanding one's full due, and showing a mild, gracious spirit, especially in dealings with others who may be difficult or challenging. It's a virtue attributed to Christ Himself in [2 Corinthians 10:1](/2_corinthians/10-1 "2 Corinthians 10:1 - The Gentleness and Mildness of Christ") and is a hallmark of mature Christian character.

**What is the dual meaning of "The Lord is at hand"?**

Answer: The phrase "The Lord is at hand" (Greek _engýs_, G1451) carries two significant meanings, both of which are crucial for understanding the verse's full impact. Firstly, it refers to the **imminent return of Jesus Christ**. This eschatological hope means that Christ's second coming is always near and could happen at any moment, providing a powerful motivation for righteous living and an eternal perspective (see [James 5:8](/james/5-8 "James 5:8 - The Lord's Coming Is Near")). Secondly, it refers to the **Lord's constant, abiding presence** with His people. He is always near to offer comfort, strength, and guidance, empowering believers to live out the command for gentleness, knowing they are not alone in their efforts. This assurance of His nearness helps believers to "be careful for nothing," as Paul continues to explain in [Philippians 4:6](/philippians/4-6 "Philippians 4:6 - Do Not Be Anxious, But Pray").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Philippians 4:5 finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in the person of Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential example of "moderation" or _epieikeia_, demonstrating perfect gentleness, reasonableness, and forbearance throughout His earthly ministry. While possessing all divine authority and power, He did not assert His rights but humbled Himself, taking the form of a servant, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6-8 "Philippians 2:6-8 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")). He taught His disciples to learn from Him, for He was "meek and lowly in heart" ([Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Learn from Jesus")). Furthermore, Christ is the "Lord" who "is at hand." His first coming brought God's presence into human history in a tangible way, inaugurating the kingdom of God and making God's nearness a reality for all who believe ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). His promise to be "with you always, even unto the end of the world" ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - Jesus' Great Commission and Promise of Presence")) assures believers of His constant spiritual presence. And finally, the "at hand" also points to His promised second coming, when He will return to consummate His kingdom ([Acts 1:11](/acts/1-11 "Acts 1:11 - Jesus' Ascension and Promise of Return")). Thus, Christ is both the perfect model for the moderation we are to display and the divine power and ultimate hope that enables and motivates us to live out this command, making Him the center of both our conduct and our expectation.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

James 5:8

Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

James 5:9

Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.

Matthew 6:25

¶ Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?

Titus 3:2

To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, [but] gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

Hebrews 10:37

For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

1 Peter 4:7

¶ But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

1 Corinthians 6:7

Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather [suffer yourselves to] be defrauded?